Treatment

The condition that causes iron overload cannot be cured, but it can be controlled by therapeutic phlebotomy. The procedure is very similar as when you donate blood. A nurse takes about a pint of blood from a vein in your arm. The procedure takes about an hour.

Ask your doctor if he or she can perform the therapeutic phlebotomy at the doctor’s office. If your doctor does not provide that type of service you may want to contact your local blood bank and ask if they offer therapeutic phlebotomies. Usually you will be required to pay a fee for the service. We have compiled a list of facilities that provide phlebotomy services for your convenience.

Many times this procedure is covered by health insurance. To determine if the procedure is covered call your insurance company and ask them if therapeutic phlebotomies are covered. For more information on treatment visit:

www.cdc.gov

www.webmd.com