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Acute Anemia Due to Blood Loss
Acute anemia from blood loss occurs when bleeding depletes red blood cells rapidly, causing fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Dr. Nghia Nguyen, a board-certified gastroenterologist at GastroDoxs in Houston, provides diagnosis and treatment to stop bleeding and restore health.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Traumatic injury or accidents leading to heavy bleeding
Surgical blood loss during or after procedures
Internal bleeding in the digestive tract (ulcers, diverticulosis)
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Use of blood thinners or anticoagulant medications
Age over 65, which increases susceptibility to bleeding events
History of peptic ulcers or gastrointestinal disorders
Signs and Symptoms
Rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia)
Shortness of breath, especially with exertion
Persistent fatigue or profound weakness
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting spells
Pale, cool, or clammy skin
Low blood pressure or feelings of weakness when standing
Chest pain in severe cases
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses the Condition
Dr. Nghia Nguyen begins with a full review of your symptoms, medical history, and medications. He asks if you have had any recent bleeding.
He may order blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC), to check your red blood cell levels.
If bleeding in the stomach or intestines is suspected, he may perform an endoscopy or order imaging tests.
A stool test can check for hidden blood in your digestive tract.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for acute anemia due to blood loss.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Tips
Eat iron-rich foods such as lean meats, beans, and leafy green vegetables
Include vitamin C sources (oranges, strawberries) to boost iron absorption
Maintain adequate hydration and prioritize rest during recovery
2. Medications
Oral iron supplements to gradually rebuild red blood cells
Intravenous iron therapy for faster correction in more severe cases
Acid-reducing medications if ulcers are a bleeding source
Careful adjustment of blood-thinner dosages under expert supervision
3. Medical Procedures
Endoscopic interventions to locate and stop gastrointestinal bleeding
Angiographic embolization to close leaking blood vessels
Surgical repair when bleeding is severe or not controlled by less invasive measures
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for acute anemia due to blood loss?
The official code used to describe acute anemia from blood loss is D62.
How is this condition diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with a review of your medical history and symptoms, followed by blood tests like a complete blood count. If gastrointestinal bleeding is suspected, Dr. Nguyen may order an endoscopy, imaging studies, or a stool test to locate hidden blood.
What are the most common causes?
Acute anemia due to blood loss most often results from traumatic injuries, internal bleeding in the stomach or intestines (ulcers, diverticulosis), surgical blood loss, or heavy menstrual periods.
Do I need a blood transfusion?
Not always. Many patients recover with iron supplements, dietary changes, and rest. A transfusion is reserved for severe or rapidly progressing blood loss.
Can this condition be prevented?
Yes. Prevention focuses on managing risk factors—treating ulcers, using blood thinners carefully under medical supervision, and addressing known bleeding disorders before they become serious.
How long does recovery take?
Mild cases often improve within a few weeks once bleeding is controlled and iron levels are restored. More severe cases may take longer but early treatment speeds healing.
Will I need an endoscopy?
If bleeding in your stomach or intestines is likely, endoscopy is the best way to both locate and treat the source of bleeding. Dr. Nguyen will recommend this procedure based on your symptoms and test results.
