No Symptoms except Anemia

I have "Idiopathic Gastritis" according to the physician who did an endoscopy.  Other than chronic anemia, I have no symptoms of discomfort.  This has been going on now for at least 3 years. I have had repeated endoscopies and several treatments for ulcers, including for h-pylori, but the inflammation is still evident and everytime I try to stop taking iron pills, the anemia worsens.  This means I am losing blood steadily.  The doctor stated after the last endoscopy that he is "leaning toward surgery".  I do not want surgery but recognize that chronic inflammation of the stomach could turn into something like cancer.  Has anyone ever heard of this asymptomatic but serious problem?  Any suggestions for treatment?

[Doug]

Iron dificient anemia should always be followed up.  Possible tests should include colonscopy, small bowel series, endoscopy.  If no evidence of bleading is found explorative surgery is indicated.