Haemochromatosis
An inherited condition in which the body absorbs too much iron from food. Over time the extra iron can build up in the liver, heart, joints and other organs, and regular venesection is the usual way to bring it down safely.
Treatments
Venesection (therapeutic blood letting)
Venesection means carefully removing a measured amount of blood to bring certain levels in your body back into a healthy range. It is one of the simplest and most effective treatments I offer for iron overload and some other blood conditions, and I provide it at The Blackheath Hospital in London.
If you have been told your iron or red cell levels are too high, I will explain what that means, whether venesection is right for you and how we will keep an eye on your progress.
What venesection is, and who it helps
The procedure is very similar to giving blood. A small needle is placed in a vein in your arm and blood is collected slowly while you sit or lie back comfortably. Removing blood lowers the number of red cells in circulation, and because red cells carry much of the body's iron, it also gradually draws excess iron out of your tissues.
The aim is to protect your organs, ease symptoms and lower the risk of complications, while keeping you well throughout.
Other iron overload
High iron stores can have other causes too. I will look at why your iron is raised before recommending treatment, as venesection is not suitable for everyone with a high ferritin result.
A raised red cell count
When the blood contains too many red cells, as in polycythaemia, it becomes thicker and the risk of clots rises. Venesection thins the blood by lowering the red cell count.
Certain other blood conditions
Venesection is sometimes part of the plan for other, less common conditions. If it could help you, I will explain why and how it fits with any other treatment you have.
What to expect
Every course of venesection is planned around you, your condition and your blood results.
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Assessment
We start with a consultation. I go through your symptoms, medical history and blood tests, arrange any further tests that are needed, and explain clearly whether venesection is the right treatment and what we are aiming for.
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Treatment sessions
Sessions take place at The Blackheath Hospital. You sit back comfortably while the blood is collected, then rest and have a drink before going home. How often you come in depends on your condition and how your levels respond.
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Regular blood monitoring
I check your blood regularly so each session is safe and we can see your progress. As your levels improve, treatment usually becomes less frequent, and I will talk you through every change to the plan.
Common questions
If your question is not answered here, please get in touch with the practice and we will be glad to help.
Is venesection the same as giving blood?
It feels very similar, but the purpose is different. Venesection is a medical treatment for your own condition, planned and monitored by me, rather than a donation for someone else.
Does it hurt?
Most people feel only a brief sharp scratch as the needle goes in. Some feel a little tired or light-headed afterwards, which is why we ask you to rest before you leave. Please tell us if you are anxious about needles so we can help you feel at ease.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies from person to person. It depends on your condition, how high your levels are to begin with and how they respond. I will give you a clear plan after your assessment and review it with you as your blood results come back.
How do I know if venesection is right for me?
A raised iron or red cell result does not always mean you need venesection. The first step is a consultation, where I look at the cause and talk through your options with you. If you are unsure which appointment to book, contact the practice and we will point you in the right direction.
Arrange your appointment with Dr Erblich
Book online through Circle Health Group, or email the practice first if you have a question or are not sure which appointment you need.