Anemia

If you’re feeling weak and lack energy, you could be anemic. Anemia can result from internal bleeding. Specializing in diagnosis and treatment of anemia, Sanjay Jain, MD, at Southend Gastroenterology Associates in Louisville, Kentucky, can help find out what’s wrong so you feel like yourself again. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today to find out how he can help you.

What is anemia?

Anemia is defined as having low red blood cells. If you have anemia, it will make you experience weakness, lightheadedness, and fatigue. 

Most cases of anemia in the United States are because of losing blood in the gut. It can also result from renal failure, or if you have a blood disorder where your bone marrow does not make enough blood cells. Lack of iron, B12, and folate in diet can cause anemia as well. Evaluation of the gut with an upper endoscopy and colonoscopy is common for evaluation of anemia. 

What are the symptoms of anemia?

At first, anemia can be so mild you might not know you have it. But your symptoms will probably gradually worsen. Common symptoms include:

• Weakness
• Tiredness
• Yellowish or pale complexion
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Chest pain
  
  

If you’re getting plenty of rest, and aren’t sure why you’re feeling tired, it could be a sign of anemia, or that something else is wrong.

How is anemia diagnosed?

Dr. Jain reviews your medical and family history, performs a physical exam, and may order a series of tests. One of these tests could be a complete blood count (CBC), which measures the red blood cells and hemoglobin in your blood.

If you’re diagnosed with anemia, Dr. Jain typically orders additional tests. These tests help determine the underlying cause of your condition, such as noncancerous polyps in the colon, colon cancer, or tumors.

Dr. Jain might suggest a colonoscopy to rule out any colon-related issues, or a diagnostic test called capsule endoscopy. Capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a smart pill equipped with a tiny wireless camera. The camera takes pictures inside your digestive tract and sends them back to Dr. Jain for viewing. This procedure can find signs of bleeding in your digestive tract and other possible causes for your anemia.

How is anemia treated?

Your treatment will be based on the cause of your anemia. Treatment often includes iron supplements, vitamins, and changes to your diet. Dr. Jain’s goal is to help you regain your energy and good health.

If you’re lacking energy and haven’t felt like yourself lately, find out whether you might have anemia. Call the Southend Gastroenterology Associates office or schedule an appointment online today.