GI Bleeding and Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Bleeding can happen anywhere in the digestive tract. It can be sudden and obvious, or slow and hidden, showing up only as iron-deficiency anemia (a low blood count from low iron).
Signs of GI bleeding
- Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
- Black, tarry stools, usually from the upper digestive tract
- Red or maroon blood in the stool, usually from the colon or rectum (see rectal bleeding)
- Tiredness, shortness of breath, or pale skin from anemia
Go to the emergency room for vomiting blood, heavy bleeding, or bleeding with dizziness, fainting, or a racing heart.
Common causes
- Ulcers and gastritis, often from H. pylori or NSAIDs
- Esophagitis from reflux
- Enlarged veins (varices) from cirrhosis
- Abnormal blood vessels (angioectasias), especially in the small intestine
- Polyps or cancer
- Diverticula and hemorrhoids
- Celiac disease, which causes anemia by poor iron absorption
Evaluation
- Upper endoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy, often on the same day
- Capsule endoscopy or enteroscopy if the source is in the small intestine
Treatment
Many bleeding sources can be treated during endoscopy with clips, heat, or bands. We also treat the cause, replace iron by mouth or IV, and review blood thinners and NSAIDs with you.
Make an appointment
Our gastroenterologists in Temple City care for patients from Arcadia, San Gabriel, Pasadena, Monrovia, Monterey Park, and across the San Gabriel Valley. We accept most PPO plans (see accepted insurances), and our doctors speak English, Vietnamese, and Mandarin. Schedule an appointment or call 626-898-4560.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your own health.
Quick Answers
What does black stool mean?
Black, tarry, sticky stool can mean bleeding from the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine. Seek prompt medical care. Iron pills and bismuth can also turn stool dark, but it is usually not tarry.
Why do I need an endoscopy for anemia?
In adults, iron-deficiency anemia is often caused by slow, hidden bleeding in the digestive tract or poor iron absorption, so doctors usually recommend both an upper endoscopy and a colonoscopy.
When is GI bleeding an emergency?
Call 911 or go to the emergency room for vomiting blood, heavy rectal bleeding, black stools with dizziness or fainting, or a fast heartbeat.
