Anaemia

Anaemia occurs when the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen around the body. In adults, it can develop gradually and may go unnoticed until symptoms become more pronounced. Common causes include iron deficiency, chronic illness, blood loss, or nutritional deficiencies.

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we offer diagnostic pathways, including endoscopic procedures, to investigate unexplained or persistent anaemia in adults — particularly when gastrointestinal causes are suspected.

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What Causes Anaemia?

Anaemia is often a sign of an underlying health issue. In adults, causes may include:

• Iron deficiency anaemia – commonly due to blood loss or poor absorption
• Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
• Chronic inflammation or kidney disease
• Bone marrow conditions
• Gastrointestinal bleeding – often hidden or slow
• Coeliac disease or peptic ulcers

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Symptoms of Anaemia

• Fatigue and low energy
• Shortness of breath
• Pale skin
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Difficulty concentrating

If left untreated, anaemia can impact quality of life and, in some cases, indicate a more serious underlying condition.

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Investigating Anaemia with Endoscopy

When anaemia is linked to suspected gastrointestinal bleeding, endoscopy is often used to identify the source.

Endoscopic procedures may include:

• Gastroscopy (OGD) – to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine for bleeding, inflammation, ulcers, or coeliac disease
• Colonoscopy – to inspect the colon and rectum for signs of polyps, inflammation, diverticular disease, or other sources of bleeding

These procedures help clinicians confirm a diagnosis and determine the most appropriate treatment or follow-up plan.

Explore Our Endoscopy Services

Please note: All endoscopy procedures require a referral from a Consultant or Private GP. Patients can obtain a referral by booking an appointment with one of our Consultant Endoscopists or Private GPs.

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When to Consider Investigation

You may be referred for endoscopy or other tests if:

• Blood tests show persistent or severe anaemia
• Iron levels are low despite supplementation
• No external cause of blood loss is found
• There are additional symptoms such as abdominal pain, bowel changes, or weight loss

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Our Diagnostic and Referral Pathway

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, you can access:

• Appointments with Consultant Endoscopists or a Private GP
• Endoscopic diagnostics (by referral only)
• Personalised outpatient care pathways
• Private care with minimal waiting times