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Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia (ICD-10 D50.9) develops when low iron disrupts red blood cell production, causing fatigue, weakness and breathlessness. Houston's Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs offers evaluation—including blood tests and endoscopic exams—and dietary changes, oral/IV iron therapy to 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.
What Is Iron Deficiency Anemia?
Iron deficiency anemia occurs when your body lacks sufficient iron to produce healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen to organs and tissues. When iron stores are low, hemoglobin levels drop and you may experience fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Inadequate dietary intake of iron (low consumption of red meat, beans, lentils, spinach)
High sugar intake, which can interfere with iron absorption
Signs and Symptoms
Persistent fatigue and general weakness
Pale skin, lips, or nail beds
Shortness of breath, especially with exertion
Lightheadedness or dizziness
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Brittle or spoon-shaped nails
Cold hands and feet
Headaches and difficulty concentrating
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Iron Deficiency Anemia?
Medical History and Physical Exam
Dr. Nguyen begins by discussing your fatigue, diet, menstrual or bleeding history, and the nature of your epigastric discomfort. He performs a focused exam to check for pallor, abdominal tenderness, or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Laboratory Studies
Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cell indices.
Iron Studies: Measures serum ferritin, serum iron, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) to confirm iron deficiency.
Additional Tests: Occult blood in stool to detect hidden GI bleeding; inflammatory markers if malabsorption is suspected.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Upper Endoscopy (EGD): Directly visualizes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for ulcers, gastritis, or bleeding sources that can cause both anemia and epigastric pain.
Capsule Endoscopy: Used when small-bowel bleeding or lesions beyond reach of standard scopes are suspected.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal Ultrasound or CT Scan: Assesses liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and other organs for conditions contributing to pain or bleeding.
Colonoscopy: Recommended if there's concern for lower GI bleeding or when endoscopic findings are inconclusive.
Additional Testing (If Needed)
H. pylori Breath Test or Biopsy: Identifies infection that can cause peptic ulcers.
Gastric or Duodenal Biopsy: Rules out celiac disease or other malabsorption disorders.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for iron deficiency anemia.
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
How soon will I feel better after starting iron?
Many patients feel more energetic within two to four weeks. Full recovery can take three to six months.
Can I take iron with food?
Yes, but it works best on an empty stomach. Taking it with a small glass of orange juice may help.
What are the side effects of iron pills?
Some people have stomach cramps, constipation, or dark-colored stools. Dr. Nguyen can help reduce these side effects.
What if I can't handle iron pills?
IV iron therapy is a safe and effective option for those who cannot tolerate pills.
Will I need an endoscopy?
If your iron is very low or you show signs of bleeding, an endoscopy may help find the cause.
How do I stop anemia from coming back?
Eat iron-rich foods, follow your supplement plan, and schedule regular check-ups with Dr. Nguyen.
Can iron deficiency lead to long-term problems?
Yes. If not treated, it may affect heart function and weaken your immune system.
