Significant Decrease in Haemoglobin Levels
An 18-year-old female with a history of anorexia and secondary amenorrhea has encountered a notable drop in her haemoglobin levels. Initially, my haemoglobin was recorded at 11.5 during a recent month when my body mass index (BMI) reached its lowest point. In the subsequent weeks, I have made efforts to enhance my dietary intake, anticipating a rise in these levels; however, surprisingly, they plummeted to 7.6. Remarkably, I have not experienced any typical symptoms associated with anemia. Following this, I was admitted to the hospital for further evaluation. Despite thorough examination, the physician did not arrive at a definitive explanation for this decline. An endoscopy has been recommended, but I remain uncertain about its necessity.
Answers (1)
8/2/2025, 1:50:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about such a significant drop in your hemoglobin levels, especially with a history of anorexia and the absence of obvious symptoms. Your current hemoglobin level of 7.6 indicates more severe anemia, which can have numerous underlying causes. To address your situation effectively, it's important to clarify and organize your approach.
Main Points
- Significant decrease in hemoglobin levels warrants careful evaluation, especially in the context of your history.
- It's important to gather more information about potential causes and management options.
Explanation
Hemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. A normal range for hemoglobin levels is typically about 12–15.5 g/dL for females, so a level of 7.6 is considered low and can lead to fatigue and weakness, though it may not always present with symptoms.
Possible causes for a drop in hemoglobin levels could include:
- Nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin B12, or folate).
- Gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly concerning with a history of eating disorders.
- Bone marrow suppression or other hematological conditions.
- Other chronic illnesses that may affect red blood cell production.
The recommended endoscopy is often a vital step to investigate any internal bleeding or lesions in the digestive tract, especially since your dietary intake has been altered. If there are any subtle sources of blood loss or abnormalities, catching them early can be crucial.
Next Steps
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Follow Up With Endoscopy: Considering the significant drop in hemoglobin, it's advisable not to delay the endoscopy. It is a valuable diagnostic tool that could rule out possible gastrointestinal issues. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare team to ensure that you fully understand its purpose and potential outcomes.
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Enhance Nutritional Support: While you’ve increased your dietary intake, focus on foods rich in iron (like red meat, beans, lentils, leafy greens, and fortified cereals) and vitamin B12 (found in animal products, fortified cereals, and dairy). You might also consider supplements, but consult with your healthcare provider before starting them.
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Monitor Symptoms and Symptoms Diary: Keep a diary of any symptoms you experience, even if they seem minor. Note any changes in energy levels, breathlessness, or unusual bruising. This can be helpful for your healthcare team.
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Regular Follow-Up: Stay connected with your healthcare provider to monitor your hemoglobin levels and overall health. They may suggest regular blood tests to track your progress.
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Emotional Support: Managing a history of anorexia alongside these medical concerns can be stressful. Consider reaching out for mental health support or joining a support group to help navigate your recovery.
Taking these steps will help you gain clearer insights into your health and ensure you're addressing any underlying issues effectively. Please reach out for any further clarifications or support you may need.
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