Haemorrhage Treatment in India

Sneha Smith, a 58-year-old retired librarian,...

Sneha Smith, a 58-year-old retired librarian, had a history of atrial fibrillation managed with warfarin. She lived alone and was an avid gardener. Over three days, she developed increasing fatigue, dizziness, and black, tarry stools (melena). She initially dismissed it as a stomach bug. When she nearly fainted while watering her plants, she called her daughter, who rushed her to the Emergency Department. Her blood work revealed a critically low hemoglobin level of 6.8 g/dL. The Internal Medicine doctor, after a rapid assessment, diagnosed a major gastrointestinal haemorrhage, likely from an ulcer exacerbated by her blood thinners. The doctor recommended an urgent upper endoscopy to identify and control the bleeding source. Terrified and feeling guilty for delaying care, Sneha was stabilized with fluids and blood transfusions before the procedure. The endoscopy found a bleeding duodenal ulcer, which was successfully cauterized. After the procedure, she spent two days in the hospital for monitoring. Her warfarin was temporarily held and later switched to a different medication. Physically, her energy slowly returned over several weeks. Emotionally, she moved from fear and vulnerability to profound relief and gratitude. The experience made her prioritize regular check-ups and accept her daughter's help more readily, strengthening their bond.