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Sudden Change In Hemoglobin Levels, Paleness, Loss Of Energy, Loss Of Weight. Done Colonoscopy. What Is The Cause?
What can cause a sudden change in hemoglobin levels in a 65 yr old man. He is pale, no energy and has lost 10 pounds in 2 weeks. His level went from 15 to an 8. He also has had no injury that caused blood loss. He is set for a colonoscopy and a GI study Tuesday. There has been no blood in his stool and had a normal colonoscopy 10 years ago and also has had no stomach problems. I have ideas but looking for input.
Mon, 1 Jul 2013
Hello and thanks for the query,
It is possible that somewhere in the gastrointestinal tract that he is having a slow and gradual loss of blood. This can come from ulcers, diverticuli, inflammed blood vessels, or possibly from a cancer. This is why the endoscopy is indicated.
If the endoscopy is normal - a workup for hemolysis is indicated - this is where the body is somehow breaking down blood cells causing a drop in hemoglobin. This can sometimes be an autoimmune process.
Lastly, if all else appears normal an examination of the bone marrow may be indicated. This would require a referral to a hematologist. For now - proceed with the endoscopy and then the doctors can determine the next logical step in helping to improve the hemoglobin.
One other thing - diet - can affect hemoglobin. In cases of low iron the hemoglobin will be low. All of this can be assessed with simple blood tests at the discretion of your doctor.
Sincerely,
Dr. Galamaga
It is possible that somewhere in the gastrointestinal tract that he is having a slow and gradual loss of blood. This can come from ulcers, diverticuli, inflammed blood vessels, or possibly from a cancer. This is why the endoscopy is indicated.
If the endoscopy is normal - a workup for hemolysis is indicated - this is where the body is somehow breaking down blood cells causing a drop in hemoglobin. This can sometimes be an autoimmune process.
Lastly, if all else appears normal an examination of the bone marrow may be indicated. This would require a referral to a hematologist. For now - proceed with the endoscopy and then the doctors can determine the next logical step in helping to improve the hemoglobin.
One other thing - diet - can affect hemoglobin. In cases of low iron the hemoglobin will be low. All of this can be assessed with simple blood tests at the discretion of your doctor.
Sincerely,
Dr. Galamaga
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