Your dad should have further evaluation and bloodwork from his doctor. Was the reason he vomited blood a year ago ever diagnosed? I would be concerned that he has something going on in his stomach or intestines that is causing his anemia, inability to eat solid foods, and poor physical. The hemoglobin could be low not just because of iron but because of some kind of chronic disease. You can get anemic just from having a chronic disease, such as kidney failure, cancer, heart problems, and many other conditions (which could also be related to the swelling), so just treating the anemia with iron won t be helpful. You need to find out the underlying cause of his current status so you know exactly what is needed to help him. Hope this helps.