Acute anemia due to blood loss develops when you lose a large volume of blood in a short period. This rapid drop in circulating red blood cells impairs your body's ability to deliver oxygen to tissues and organs. Unlike chronic anemia, which develops slowly over weeks or months, acute blood-loss anemia appears suddenly and can become life-threatening without prompt care.
Signs usually emerge within hours to a few days of the bleeding event. You may experience:
Acute blood-loss anemia most often results from internal or external bleeding. Common triggers include:
If you're experiencing lightheadedness, extreme fatigue, or any signs of acute blood loss, don't wait. Contact GastroDoxs in Houston today to book your appointment. Our team provides prompt evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and close follow-up care to help you recover quickly and feel stronger-fast.
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Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Acute anemia is diagnosed with blood tests such as a complete blood count (CBC) and reticulocyte count. We may also use imaging studies or endoscopy to locate and assess the source of bleeding.
The ICD-10 code for acute posthemorrhagic anemia is D62.
Yes. A rapid bleed in the stomach or intestines is a common cause of acute anemia due to blood loss.
Most people notice symptoms within hours to days after significant blood loss. In cases of slower bleeding, signs may develop more gradually.
Mild anemia can occur after surgery, but if your red blood cell count drops significantly, you should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Schedule an appointment if you experience black or tarry stools, extreme weakness, dizziness, or have persistently low iron levels.
Treatment may include intravenous fluids, blood transfusions, iron therapy, medications, endoscopic procedures to stop bleeding, or surgery, depending on the cause and severity.
Iron supplements may help once bleeding has stopped and anemia is mild. However, if bleeding is ongoing or anemia is severe, more intensive treatment is required.
Acute anemia develops rapidly, usually from sudden blood loss. Chronic anemia builds slowly over time due to long-term conditions or nutrient deficiencies.
GastroDoxs provides comprehensive care-from lab testing and endoscopy to treatment and follow-up-ensuring you receive coordinated, specialized care in one place.
