1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Angioectasias
As you age, fragile blood vessels in the digestive tract-angioectasias-can rupture, causing bleeding, iron deficiency, or anemia. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott offers clear, advanced diagnosis and minimally invasive treatments to quickly restore your health and improve overall wellbeing.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Advanced age with degenerative changes in blood vessels
Chronic kidney disease
Heart valve disorders (for example, aortic stenosis)
Bleeding or clotting disorders
Long-term use of anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications
Occasional idiopathic cases (no clear underlying cause)
Signs and Symptoms
Often no obvious signs in early stages
Dark, tarry stools (melena)
Bright red blood in stool
Fatigue or general weakness
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or shortness of breath
Iron deficiency or anemia on blood tests
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Angioectasias?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your symptoms-dark or bright-red blood in the stool, fatigue, dizziness-and asks about medications, prior GI issues, and risk factors like kidney or heart valve disease.
Lab Tests
Complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia, iron studies, and coagulation panels to rule out bleeding disorders.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Colonoscopy to visualize and locate angioectasias in the large intestine.
Upper endoscopy to inspect the stomach and duodenum if bleeding is suspected there.
High-Definition Imaging
Advanced HD and narrow-band imaging help Dr. Scott spot subtle vascular lesions for precise treatment planning.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for angioectasias.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an angioectasia?
It's a tiny blood vessel that can bleed inside the GI tract.
Is it dangerous?
It can cause anemia if not treated. Early care keeps you safe.
Will I need to stay in the hospital?
No. Most treatments are done in-office, and you can go home the same day.
Can a better diet fix it?
Diet helps with anemia, but not the bleeding. You may still need a procedure.
What's the ICD-10 code?
It's K31.7. We handle the insurance coding for you.
How long does recovery take?
Most people feel better within 1 to 2 days.
Is it genetic?
Not usually. But family history might raise the risk a little.
