Anemia or something else.

I am a 43 year old woman, who first off have menstrual periods every 25-28 days with heavy flow and 7 days of flow. I have been getting so anxious with sweating, panic attacks, nervousness and shaking. I went to the family doc and he did a blood test with the following abnormalities

WBC - 10.5
Hemoglobin - 10.9
Hemtocrit - 33.6
MCV - 68
MCH - 22.1
Platelets - 447

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The doc informs me that the readings are possibility for colon cancer and I need to see a gastro doctor. I am so scared with his comments. I thought most women are anemic at this age if they have heavy cycles. Can you offer some advise. Thank you.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The lab results are suggestive of iron-deficiency anemia (low MCV and low hemoglobin).  I would obtain iron studies to confrim this.  

It is true that heavy menstrual periods can cause this.  However, this can also be caused by colon cancer as well.  

I would rule out colon cancer first - preferably with a colonoscopy.  If negative, then you can work on the menstrual cycle as a possible cause.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_b