DEAR DR. GOTT: In 2003, I experienced a black and bloody stool. I lost several pints of blood and had to be hospitalized. I was told the blood loss was indeed coming from my bowel. This has happened twice since then and each time it comes from my bowel.

I was hospitalized for each attack and during that time, various tests were done and found to be normal. The only thing that was different was my blood count. The first attack it was 8.1, second was 6.1 and the third was 5.1.

So far, I have had two colonoscopies plus two endoscopies. I was told during my last hospital stay that I have sores on my esophagus that may be contributing to the bleeding and that it should stop soon, but it hasn’t yet. I received 4 pints of blood which brought my blood count up to 9.7. I was still bleeding when they released me and continue to now that I’m home. I have not had any pain during these “attacks”.

At this point, I am not very confident in my doctor. Can you give me your opinion as to what could possibly be wrong? I would also like to know what kind of specialist doctor I should see.

DEAR READER: You are at risk of suffering fatal intestinal bleeding unless the source can be discovered and treated. In my opinion, you need to see a gastroenterologist for further testing. In particular, you need a study of your small intestine, in addition to the normal upper and lower bowel testing you have already had.

You have had severe anemia as a consequence of your blood loss. Therefore, I advise you not to wait. Ask your doctor to refer you to the specialist. If he has done that already, ask for a referral to a second specialist for another opinion. Don’t delay.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Medical Specialists”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.