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Angiodysplasia
Angiodysplasia involves fragile blood vessels in the gastrointestinal tract that can rupture, leading to sudden or chronic bleeding, anemia, and fatigue. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen leverages advanced diagnostic tools and treatments to identify and manage this condition.
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.
What Is Angiodysplasia?
A condition in which small, fragile blood vessels in the digestive tract become weakened and prone to bleeding
Most commonly occurs in the colon but can affect the stomach or small intestine
Bleeding may be sudden or chronic, leading to gradual blood loss over time
Often discovered when patients present with unexplained anemia or visible blood in their stool
Use of blood-thinning medications or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Signs and Symptoms
Bright red blood in the stool (lower‐GI bleeding)
Black, tarry stools if bleeding originates higher in the tract
Weakness, fatigue, or shortness of breath from iron‐deficiency anemia
Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially upon standing
Often no abdominal pain or only mild discomfort
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Angiodysplasia?
Medical History and Physical Exam
Dr. Nguyen begins by reviewing your symptoms—such as any visible bleeding, changes in stool color, dizziness or fatigue—and your medication history (including blood thinners and NSAIDs). He then performs a focused physical exam to check for signs of anemia or ongoing blood loss.
Laboratory Tests
A complete blood count (CBC) is ordered to assess hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Iron studies help determine if chronic bleeding has led to iron-deficiency anemia. Additional labs may include coagulation profiles if bleeding disorders are suspected.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Colonoscopy - the primary tool to visualize and treat lesions in the colon.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD) - to inspect the stomach and duodenum if upper-GI bleeding is suspected.
Capsule Endoscopy or Double-Balloon Enteroscopy - used when bleeding is thought to originate in the small intestine.
Imaging Studies
When active bleeding is intermittent or not seen on endoscopy, Dr. Nguyen may utilize CT angiography or a tagged red blood cell scan to pinpoint the source.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for angiodysplasia.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Support
Personalized guidance on iron-rich foods (leafy greens, beans, red meat)
Hydration and fluid balance recommendations
Advice on avoiding alcohol and NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) to reduce bleeding risk
2. Medications
Oral or IV iron supplementation to correct anemia
Hormone therapy in selected cases to stabilize bleeding
Octreotide to lower blood flow to fragile vessels and reduce bleeding episodes
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic coagulation (heat therapy) to seal bleeding vessels
Endoscopic band ligation for larger vascular lesions
Interventional radiology embolization to block persistent bleeding vessels
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 angiodysplasia?
Angiodysplasia is a condition where weak blood vessels in the digestive tract bleed.
What causes angiodysplasia in the colon?
It is often caused by aging. Kidney or heart problems can add stress to the vessels.
Can angiodysplasia affect the stomach?
Yes. It can also appear in the stomach and lead to bleeding.
How is it found in the small intestine?
Doctors use capsule endoscopy or double-balloon enteroscopy to check the small bowel.
What treatments are available?
Treatments include iron supplements, medications like octreotide, and procedures to seal or block the bleeding vessels.
Is angiodysplasia life-threatening?
Most cases are not. But heavy or ongoing bleeding can lead to serious problems if not treated.
Can diet help?
Eating foods high in iron may help rebuild blood levels, but it does not fix the weak blood vessels.
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