What are the causes and risks of elevated ferritin levels?

Generally, elevated ferritin levels are mainly caused by aging, iron supplementation, bacterial infection, cirrhosis, diabetes, and other factors. Potential risks of high ferritin include hypoxia, malignant anemia, liver damage, kidney damage, and heart damage. If you experience any discomfort, please seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Causes of Elevated Ferritin

1. Aging

With aging and differences in gender, the body's demand for iron and its storage capacity may change. Men and adult women naturally have higher ferritin levels due to the requirements of red blood cell production and the effects of the menstrual cycle. Usually, no specific treatment is required.

2. Iron Supplementation

Short-term excessive intake of iron supplements or iron-rich foods can temporarily elevate ferritin levels. It is recommended to adjust the diet, reduce consumption of iron-rich foods, and discontinue unnecessary iron supplements.

3. Bacterial Infection

Bacterial infection is an inflammatory response caused by bacterial invasion. During infection, the body produces an inflammatory reaction that stimulates ferritin production to combat the infection. Symptoms such as fever and fatigue may accompany the condition. Treatment should follow medical advice using medications such as Piperacillin Sodium for injection, Potassium Penicillin V Tablets, Levofloxacin Tablets, etc.

4. Cirrhosis

Poor nutrition, excessive fatigue, and other factors may lead to cirrhosis. The liver is a vital organ for iron metabolism. When liver function is impaired, its ability to store and metabolize iron declines, leading to elevated ferritin levels. Symptoms such as hematemesis and black stools may occur. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as Entecavir Dispersible Tablets,甘草酸二铵胶囊 (Diammonium Glycyrrhizinate Capsules), and扶正化瘀胶囊 (Fuzheng Huayu Capsules) for treatment.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes is mainly caused by obesity, excessive intake of high-sugar foods, and similar factors. Diabetes leads to metabolic disturbances that affect iron metabolism balance, resulting in abnormal ferritin levels. Symptoms such as frequent urination and excessive thirst may appear. Under the guidance of a professional physician, medications such as Glipizide Extended-Release Tablets, Metformin Hydrochloride Sustained-Release Tablets, and Recombinant Human Insulin Injection may be used for treatment.

2. Risks of Elevated Ferritin

1. Hypoxia

Iron is one of the most abundant trace elements in the human body and an essential component of hemoglobin. Excessive iron in the body increases blood iron concentration, affecting oxygen transport and utilization, leading to hypoxia. Symptoms such as dyspnea, dizziness, and fatigue may occur. Severe cases may even be life-threatening.

2. Malignant Anemia

Elevated ferritin levels may impair normal red blood cell production, leading to malignant anemia, such as hemolytic anemia or aplastic anemia. These anemic conditions may cause symptoms such as general weakness and shortness of breath, significantly affecting the patient's quality of life.

3. Liver Damage

Iron is metabolized in the liver. When the body's iron load is excessive, it can easily damage the liver. Long-term elevated ferritin levels may lead to decreased liver metabolic function and eventually cirrhosis. If not treated promptly, liver disease may worsen and even progress to liver cancer.

4. Kidney Damage

Patients with elevated ferritin may also develop symptoms of renal insufficiency, such as edema and hypertension. The kidneys are essential excretory organs in the body; elevated ferritin may damage kidney function, thereby affecting overall health.

5. Heart Damage

Excess iron in the body increases the burden on the heart, causing myocardial cell degeneration and necrosis. In severe cases, acute heart failure may develop, causing symptoms such as palpitations, chest tightness, and dyspnea.

Maintain a balanced diet in daily life, ensure adequate nutrition, and avoid abnormal ferritin levels caused by malnutrition or picky eating habits.