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Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosis, characterized by excessive iron buildup, can damage critical organs like the liver, heart, and pancreas. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott offers expert diagnosis, personalized treatment, and advanced procedures-from blood tests to therapeutic phlebotomy-to manage iron overload effectively.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Hereditary hemochromatosis (ICD-10: E83.11)
Family history of iron overload
Frequent blood transfusions
Excessive iron supplements
Underlying liver disease
Regular heavy alcohol use
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in early stages
Fatigue or weakness
Joint pain or stiffness
Abdominal discomfort or fullness
Irregular periods (women)
Early menopause (women)
Heavy menstrual bleeding (women)
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews the onset, location and character of your epigastric pain, along with dietary habits, alcohol or NSAID use, stressors and any related symptoms.
Blood Tests
He orders a complete blood count, liver function tests, amylase and lipase levels, plus Helicobacter pylori antigen or antibody testing.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to look for gallstones, pancreatic changes or liver abnormalities.
CT scan or MRI when structural issues or complications (e.g., pancreatitis, masses) are suspected.
Endoscopy
An upper GI endoscopy (EGD) allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum to detect ulcers, gastritis or tumors; biopsies are taken when indicated.
Functional Testing (if needed)
Gastric emptying studies, 24-hour pH monitoring or motility testing help diagnose gastroparesis, reflux or functional dyspepsia.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for hemochromatosis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Reduce intake of red meat and iron-fortified foods
Avoid raw shellfish if liver function is compromised
Drink tea or coffee with meals to inhibit iron absorption
Maintain regular exercise to support overall health
2. Medications
Chelation therapy when phlebotomy isn't sufficient or possible
Iron supplements only under Dr. Scott's direct recommendation
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Therapeutic phlebotomy (scheduled blood draws) to lower iron stores
MRI-guided liver iron quantification for precise monitoring
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for hemochromatosis?
The ICD-10 code for hereditary hemochromatosis is E83.11.
How common is hemochromatosis?
It affects about 1 in 200 to 300 people, most often those of Northern European descent.
What are early signs of hemochromatosis in women?
Women may notice fatigue, joint pain, irregular or heavy periods, and early menopause.
Can diet alone fix iron overload?
Dietary changes can reduce iron absorption, but most patients need therapeutic phlebotomy or chelation therapy to remove excess iron.
What else can raise my iron levels?
Repeated blood transfusions, unnecessary iron supplements, chronic liver disease, and some anemia treatments can all increase iron stores.
How often will I need blood draws?
Initially, phlebotomy is often done weekly until iron levels normalize. Once stable, sessions are spaced based on your iron studies and health.
Is there a cure for hemochromatosis?
While there's no permanent cure, regular treatment and monitoring keep iron levels in check and prevent organ damage.
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