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What is Angiodysplasia?
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Akshay Kulkarni , Gastroenterologists Medical
Angiodysplasia is a condition where small, fragile blood vessels form abnormally in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, most often in the colon. These vessels can become stretched or enlarged, leading to bleeding. It's more common in older adults and can cause symptoms like blood in the stool or anemia.
What are the Symptoms of Angiodysplasia?
Angiodysplasia usually affects the digestive tract and may not show clear signs at first. But over time, bleeding can develop, leading to noticeable symptoms. Recognizing them early can help avoid serious complications like anemia.
Common Symptoms
- Blood in the stool that may not be visible (hidden bleeding)
- Light bleeding from the rectum
- Feeling tired without a clear reason
- Pale skin due to slow blood loss
What are the Common Causes of Angiodysplasia?
The exact cause of angiodysplasia remains unclear; however, it is believed to result from degenerative changes in blood vessels due to ageing or other underlying conditions. The following factors may contribute to the development of angiodysplasia.
Angiodysplasia Causes
- Mechanical stress: Repeated contractions of the gastrointestinal tract may lead to the dilation and eventual rupture of blood vessels.
- Aging: With age, blood vessels may become more susceptible to degeneration and malformation.
- Genetic predisposition: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to vascular anomalies, including angiodysplasia.
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Get Second OpinionHow Angiodysplasia is Diagnosed?
Diagnosing angiodysplasia usually starts with a careful look at symptoms like blood in the stool or unexplained anemia. Since bleeding can be slow or hidden, doctors often use a mix of tests to find the source.
Common Diagnostic Methods
- Blood tests: Check for anemia caused by long-term blood loss.
- Stool tests: Detect small amounts of hidden blood in your stool.
- Colonoscopy: Helps locate abnormal blood vessels in the large intestine.
- Upper endoscopy: Looks at the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine for bleeding.
- Capsule endoscopy: A small camera capsule is swallowed to view hard-to-reach areas.
- CT angiography: Gives detailed images of blood vessels to find active bleeding.
- Radionuclide scan: Tracks where blood is leaking using tagged red blood cells.
What are the Treatment Options for Angiodysplasia?
Treatment for angiodysplasia depends on how severe the bleeding is and whether it's causing other health problems like anemia. Some people may not need treatment right away, while others might require medical or surgical help to control bleeding and prevent it from coming back.
Main Treatment Options
- Iron Supplements or Blood Transfusions: These are often used when slow blood loss leads to anemia. They help improve energy levels but don't treat the root cause.
- Endoscopic Treatment: Doctors use a scope to find and treat the bleeding vessels. Heat, laser, or argon plasma coagulation can seal them. Often done as a day procedure with quick recovery.
- Medications: Drugs like octreotide may reduce blood flow to abnormal vessels and lower the chance of future bleeding. Usually used in people who can't undergo procedures or have repeated bleeding.
- Angiographic Embolization: This is a minimally invasive method where bleeding vessels are blocked using a catheter. Helpful when the source of bleeding is hard to reach with a scope.
- Surgery: Rarely needed, but if bleeding is severe and ongoing, doctors may remove the affected part of the intestine.
When to See a Doctor?
Angiodysplasia can often go unnoticed in the early stages, especially if bleeding is mild or hidden. But knowing when to get medical help is important to avoid complications like ongoing blood loss or anemia.
You should see a doctor if you notice
- Blood in your stool, even small traces, shouldn't be ignored
- Unexplained fatigue or weakness that doesn't improve with rest
- Dizziness or fainting, especially after bowel movements
- Shortness of breath during routine tasks
- Low haemoglobin or iron levels are found during a routine check-up
It's especially important to get checked if you.
- Are over 60 years old
- Have a history of heart or kidney disease
- Take blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin
- Have had previous GI bleeding or anaemia
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What are the Complications of Angiodysplasia?
Angiodysplasia may seem mild at first, but if not treated properly, it can lead to serious health problems. Most of these issues are linked to blood loss in the digestive tract, which can happen slowly over time or suddenly.
Possible Complications
- Chronic anemia: Ongoing blood loss can reduce red blood cells, causing fatigue, weakness, and pale skin.
- Sudden heavy bleeding: In some cases, bleeding can be severe and may need urgent medical care.
- Frequent need for blood transfusions: Repeated bleeding might lead to low hemoglobin levels, requiring transfusions.
- Hospital stays or surgery: If bleeding can't be controlled, surgery might be needed to remove the affected part of the intestine.
- Reduced daily function: Constant tiredness or fear of bleeding can affect your ability to work, travel, or enjoy daily life.
Our Experience in Treating Angiodysplasia
At our Medicover hospital, we understand how unsettling it can be to deal with unexplained bleeding or constant fatigue. That's why we approach angiodysplasia care with both medical precision and personal attention. From the first consultation to follow-up care, our team works closely with each.
person to find the cause, stop the bleeding, and prevent it from coming back. Using advanced endoscopic and imaging techniques, we create a treatment plan that fits your needs, always keeping your comfort and safety in mind. Our goal is to help you feel better, regain your strength, and get back to living life without fear.
