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Angioectasias Gastroenterologist - Dr. Scott Liu
As one grows old, the blood vessels in the digestive tract, which are delicate, are likely to rupture causing bleeding, iron deficiency or anemia. GastroDoxs, Dr. Scott in Houston provides you with a clear and advanced diagnosis and minimum invasive therapies that would ensure you are healed and generally advance your overall wellbeing within a relatively shorter time.
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 and vascular degeneration.
Chronic kidney disease
Heart valve diseases (e.g. aortic stenosis)
The Hemolytic or coagulation diseases.
Continuous taking of anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medication.
Periodic idiopathic (no apparent cause).
Signs and Symptoms
In most instances which are not visible at first.
Dark, tarry stools (melena)
Bright red blood in stool
Fatigue or general weakness
Lightheadedness, dizziness or dyspnea.
Blood tests iron deficient or anaemic.
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Angioectasias?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He questions you on your symptoms-dark or bright-red blood in the stool, fatigue, dizziness-and whether you are taking medication, GI issues in the past, and risk factors kidney or valve disease of the heart.
Lab Tests
Full blood count (CBC) to eliminate anemia, iron studies and coagulation tests to eliminate bleeding disorders.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Colonoscopy to detect and determine angioectasias in the big intestine.
To check the stomach and duodenum in case of potential bleeding in these regions, an upper endoscopy should be done.
High-Definition Imaging
Application of the sophisticated HD imaging and narrow-band imaging can help Dr. Scott to determine the presence of a mild vascular lesion to make proper arrangements in the treatment.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for angioectasias.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Tips
Eat additional foods that contain iron: lean meat, beans, spinach.
Hydrate yourself and drink a lot of water.
NSAIDs (ibuprofen and aspirin) are to be avoided.
Reduce the level of alcohol to remove the possible risk of bleeding.
2. Medications
Iron deficiency: Iron supplements.
Medications were meant to slow down or stop GI bleeding.
Discriminating use of anti-clots.
3. Minimally Invasive In-Office Procedures
Endoscopic coagulation - matter of using heat to seal bleeding points.
Argon plasma coagulation - applies non-contact beam to close vessels.
Most patients are also discharged after the same day treatment.
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.
