Help - doctor said I could be losing blood slowly after test results showed I'm anaemic

Hi new here had bloods done it’ showed I’m anaemic but I’m 52 had hysterectomy 7 years ago so no periods so doc has said he’s sending me for up and down colonoscopy on a cancer referral  it’s scared life out of me! I had gastric bypass 5 years ago too ! He said I could be slowly loosing blood as it’s not low enough to need transfusion! Think 115 from memory!! Please has anyone else had the same 

  • Hello Vonnie74 and thanks for posting 

    I'm sorry you are feeling worried and can appreciate waiting to have a colonoscopy is very stressful, and our minds often imagine the worst possible scenario.

    Being on the cancer pathway doesn't always mean a cancer diagnosis. In fact, the majority of people who are referred urgently do not have cancer. It just means that the doctors want to be thorough and not delay anything if further tests are needed.

    A haemoglobin of 115 is considered mild anaemia. Having had a gastric bypass can make it harder to absorb iron and can be a common cause of anaemia. The colonoscopy is being done to look for a reason for the anaemia, including any possible bleeding in the bowel. Many people with mild anaemia who have a colonoscopy do not have bowel cancer.

    I know it's easier said than done but try and take it one step at a time until you know more. Some people find talking it through with family and friends and keeping busy can sometimes help. Also try and focus on what you can control right now by eating a good diet, getting enough rest, and doing some gentle activities that you enjoy,

    I hope you know more soon. Give us a ring if you would like to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene

  • Thankyou it was just scary getting it as a suspected cancer referall 

  • I also have b12 vitimin d and thyroid (graves decease) I had endo left after part hysterectomy years ago too so hoping all this is the factor