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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Why Is My Hemoglobin Low?

I'm a 58 year old male in good health, but my hemaglobin is 12.6 and my MCV is 77. My doctor thinks the levels are low and wants me to have a colonoscopy, even though I had one 5 years ago and everything was fine. I take a daily baby aspirin and ibuprofen when I have a headache, which my doctor said may contribute to the low readings. Should I go ahead with the colonoscopy or should I cut out the aspirin and ibuprofen and have another blood test in a couple weeks to compare the readings?
Mon, 5 Jan 2015
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Geriatrics Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows.
1. Your hemoglobin is mildly reduced. Along with hemoglobin, MCV is also reduced indicating possible iron deficiency.
2. Colonoscopy is essential every five years and needs to be done to evaluate for any polyps or cancer. This can cause bleeding.
3. Ibuprofen can cause gastritis and bleeding. Stool examination can confirm any bleeding in gut. Take iron supplements and get colonoscopy and stool examination done.
Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
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Why Is My Hemoglobin Low?

Hi, Thanks for asking. Based on your query, my opinion is as follows. 1. Your hemoglobin is mildly reduced. Along with hemoglobin, MCV is also reduced indicating possible iron deficiency. 2. Colonoscopy is essential every five years and needs to be done to evaluate for any polyps or cancer. This can cause bleeding. 3. Ibuprofen can cause gastritis and bleeding. Stool examination can confirm any bleeding in gut. Take iron supplements and get colonoscopy and stool examination done. Hope it helps. Any further queries, happy to help again.