yes I have H&H issues (Hemoglobin and Hematocrit) , we presume that my strictures are bleeding. I recently found the following article which I found quite informative.

http://www.hematology.org/Pati...Iron-Deficiency.aspx

I happen to be able to boost my H&H by taking iron pills which while expensive are less so than infusions. I recently finally got my docs to agree to infusions but my PCP informed me that once I started iron infusions, it would render the pills ineffective or maybe less effective. as I already purchased a few bottles of iron supplements I have chosen to stick to using them for the time being.

I have been having this problem and have been taking a prescription iron pill (ferralet).  It's expensive, but it doesn't mess up my stomach like other iron pills do.  I'm getting another blood test tomorrow to see if I'm still anemic.  (I think I am because the only time I eat ice is when I'm anemic.  It's been recorded to be a sign of anemia, strangely enough.)  My doc said if I'm still anemic, I will be getting the iron infusions.  But she told me that it should keep the iron up for years after a number of treatments.  So I'm surprised, JOM, that your numbers tank when you get off the transfusions.  

btw for the record I sense that in spite of the potential link/cause to GI issues, it seems most GI's are loathe to handle iron infusions, manage your H&H counts, and will refer you to a hematologist whose true specialty it is. perhaps because the thought is there are potentially other reasons for blood loss...

ideally iron infusions are effective for extended periods, but I have seen some patients who require maintenance infusions for who knows what reason.