B12 deficiency – what the numbers mean
I just need to take a minute and discuss what the results of your B12 blood tests mean. Recently I have had 2 people from my personal life who have been diagnosed with B12 deficiency anemia and I am shocked at the difference between my treatment and theirs. They weren’t informed of the severity or the potential dangers associated with this condition.They are both women in their late 30′s and were both diagnosed with B12 deficiency anemia. Let’s assume that they had their homocystine and methylmalonic acid levels checked and they came back elevated. They both had B12 levels in the low 200′s and they were both treated with a “mega-dose” shot and told to take supplements. That was it. What worries me the most is that they are from different parts of the country, have different doctors. This should not be a standard treatment for B12 deficiency.
According to both my doctor and my neurologist ( and I have read the data myself as well) once your B12 levels fall below 400 you can start to feel symptoms and the lower the number goes, the worse those symptoms get. Officially if your B12 results are 200 or less you have B12 deficiency. Again, both my doctor and neurologist have said that number should be raised to 400. Based on my experience I would definitely agree. I had lots of symptoms, and as my levels were falling I got worse and worse.
It usually takes a long time for you to start feeling the effects of B12 deficiency, which means that damage can start to occur in your body with out you even knowing it. You need to get your levels up as soon as possible so you can start to heal any damage that may have been done, if it’s even possible. Sometimes the damage is irreversible, so the longer you are deficient the worse it can be. You also don’t want your B12 levels to go up and down. You want to get your b12 numbers high and your other numbers low and keep it that way so your body may begin to heal.
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Hello!
Could someone(s) please list what they feel are the symtoms of a B12 deficiency?
I just found out today from my neurologist that my B12 is 137. I had gone to my local dr (after receiving a letter from my neuro saying I should see him and follow it up urgently) and he was quite vague and said I should take some B complex vitamins from the chemist, any kind is fine.
Turns out my neuro is quite angry now as he has been seeing me for possible MS as I have deteriorated so rapidly in the last four months that I need a walking stick and can barely string a sentence together some days.
I can’t believe my local doctor would be so casual about it, and then tell me I’m obviously stressed and give me an antidepressant, when all this time I have been so grossly B12 deficient that it might have caused me permanent damage!!!!
THank you for sharing this info on your blog as I’m having trouble finding people on the web with a B12 as low as mine to compare symptoms with. It’s scary that it may not be able to be fully fixed either….
Thanks again and I’ll keep an eye on your blog for updates on what is a very underrated, underdiagnosed condition.
Cheers, Lu
I can’t say I was given a diagnosis dr just said oh your levels of B12 are very low and that I should get on some vitimins so I went and bought the highest dose 1000mg when I went back yesterday I asked her what it really was the exact number it’s 123 …now I read on line that it should be 400 i wasnt told the severity of levels this low also my iron is super low it’s 22 and should be 40 my hair is falling out and it’s starting to get to me….. I homestly haven’t been told anything except I have hypothyroidism bit with everything else going on I don’t know if that’s my only problem.
I just found out my b12 level is 163. I have felt terrible for 6 months now. I ended up with carpal tunnel but am going to see a neurologist. I started the 1000mcg’s of a b12 supplement. Two weeks in I felt better. I’m on the third week and feel horrible again.
Cat,
I hope you are starting to feel better again. It is not uncommon to go back and forth with how you feel in the beginning. Be sure to tell your doctor how you are feeling and discuss any possible changes in treatment (more b12, shots instead of or in addition to supplements, other vitamins you might want to take, etc…). Your levels were low so it will take time to feel better, weeks and months even. Hang in there, being properly diagnosed is half the battle. Keep me posted on how you are feeling.
I was diagnosed with a B12 deficiency a year ago after feeling debilitatingly tired. My number was 119. I was given shots every day for a week, then every week for a month and then once a month since then. i have had my levels checked once at the six month mark and then again just last week. they called to tell me my numbers were “stable” but once i probed further found out they are just 232. so still quite low. i have just been seeing a family practice doc. should i see a neurologist? on a side note i was diagnosed with post-partum 2 years ago after i had my son and have been on anti-depressants/anti-anxiety meds ever since. could my anxiety be caused by the b12 deficiency instead? i am still fairly tired and have joint numbness/pain. i also have had yo-yo’ing weight and other symptoms. help!
I was diagnosed with low B12 a month ago and am struggling to get my levels to stay up. After some persusion I have managed to get two weekly shots of B12 which make me feel normal again the next day, BUT only last for 5 days!! I feel quite desperate as to what to do, as I think I need the shots every week for a while, my B12 was 140. Think I’ll have to go back to the doctor get them more regularly to start with, it’s almost impossible to function normally.
Once again I want to stress that I am not a medical doctor. You need to see a medical professional to decide on treatment that is best for you. That said, I have to say that it is very important that you be pro-active when it comes to getting treatment for B12 deficiency.
Everyone is different and you are the only one who knows your body and how you feel. I absolutely recommend that you see a neurologist, especially if you are having any tingling, numbness or pain. Any level below 200 is extremely deficient and many doctors feel the actual level of deficiency should be at 400. Most people have levels between 800-1000! The traditional treatment of one shot a month doesn’t work for me either, I need it more often and through a little trial and error my Dr. has found a course of treatment that works for me. Don’t feel shy about telling your doctor your treatment needs to be modified. Good Luck, I hope you all feel better.
I found your comments very interesting. My son(young adult) has b12 level of 300. He used to have in the high 400′s but has been dropping for last 2 years. He feels terrible fatigue, tremors, insomnia, trouble thinking and irritability. He has probable Crohn’s disease. I would really like to find a dr who would treat him for b12 deficiency, even though he is above the level, because I’m sure he is suffering from it. We live in Florida.
Linda
Linda,
As I’m sure you have read, my (non-medical professional) opinion is that anything under 400 should be considered deficient. I have heard that B12 and Crohn’s disease can go hand in hand. You said probable Crohn’s, so I’m guessing he hasn’t been diagnosed yet. I don’t know if you are just waiting for test results, or haven’t found a Dr. yet, but finding a Dr. should be your #1 priority. You need to let your Doctor know everything you told me, as well as the many things I’m sure you didn’t mention. Don’t be afraid to switch your Dr. or get a second opinion if they don’t listen to your concerns. I have discovered that most of the time you need to be proactive when it comes to B12, especially if you are younger. Many Dr.s don’t take it as seriously as they should and most of the data to treat the condition pertains to older people. I don’t know where you are located in Florida, but I googled Crohn’s Dr.s and got a ton of info. Here are the first few that came up that may be helpful:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/crohns/
http://www.floridahospitaldigestive.com/services/index.asp
http://organizedwisdom.com/Pain_Management_Specialists_in_Florida
http://www.medhelp.org/
I hope you are able to find a solution and get him the care that he needs to feel better.
Good Luck
I have been dealing with B12 on my own. I had been ill for years, seen a ton of doctors and no body came up with why I was ill. Finally found a new doctor who decided to do a few new tests. I was diagnosed with SIBO last year. Wasn’t told much about it just handed some antibiotics. After 6 months of antibiotics and no change on how I felt or that the SIBO was going away I asked for my B12 levels to be checked. My levels came back as 240. I was told that was fine. I was also told SIBO would not cause allot of the symptoms I was haveing so it must be in my head. Knowing it was not in my head (I know my body) I did some research on low B12 levels. Come to find out mine was low and if I didn’t do anything about it now it would just get worse. I have been taking supplements, 1000mg twice a day and started to notice a difference within a week. I do however notice that if I forget to take them for a while I start getting a few symptoms back. Is that normal? I do not eat any beef or pork, some chicken and fish. How long should I stay on the B12 supplements?
My symptoms were classic. Fatigue, irritability (so I was told!)along with racing heart, PVC’s(heart)and my calves felt jiggly as though were loose. My Doc finally did blood work and sd. I was “borderline anemic” at 138. I had to ask for b12 after another near passing out, racing pulse episode. He was focused on cardiac concerns rather than my b12 level He stated “you shouldn’t have symptoms at this level”. I too feel a level of 400+ is essential. Finally, I demanded a b12 injection every 2 weeks. My levels slowly increased to 480+. I can attest to the feeling after an injection and when you know you are due.
I Was having alot of trouble with my bladder. I was going to the bathroom about 6 times an hour or more it was alot. I also started having trouble with my vision I then went to the doctor and they ran a ton of test then i was told i had b12 deficiency my level was under 200. I am having to go in once a week for a shot. I was also told i had rheumatoid arthritis and i am going to have to go see a Rheumatologist. I was wonder if anyone else has had bladder or vision trouble with the B12 deficiency or if they have been told anything about Rheumatoid arthritis. Any comment would be helpful.
I have Lupus, and have been suffering with really bad headaches, neck pain etc and extreme fatigue. the doc ran tests and my b12 is 212…my folate 209, I only hope that it is the b12 that is causing this, cos that means I can do something about it, if this is just because of my lupus I am gonna be in a right mess, I have 2 babies and sometimes litterally can’t get up I am that exausted….I was hoping that I will be able to cope with Lupus if I can sort my iron levels out, oh well fingers crossed this is what it is!!!
I have personnaly found that my symptoms of low B12 to be a major lack of energy,rigid muscles, balance problems and confusion. My current level is 100, which is had to deal with at the age of 24. I am trying to raise it to 400 but this is complex due to my struggles with Eating Disorders. Has anyone had experience with injections? I would love to hear your thoughts.
I posted a comment about myself in detail in the “B12 Symptoms” section of this blog and came to this one to comment further (if you want to know more about my situation post surgery etc)
My levels of so much are almost non-existent which explains so many of my symptoms compounding post-surgery as well.
My B12 & folate studies level was at 186 and it shows on the report the recommended levels to be between 180 – 740!!!
All my dr had to say looking at all the results was that i was fine, everything was showing average…unbelievable!…he had no explanation of my symptoms. I was shocked..I even told him that that can’t be right, I have so many symptoms etc..all he suggested was that I could take a Vit C maybe a Vit B complex and exercise…thats it!
First of all, when a person has no energy, has dizziness and fatigue, imbalances to standing or walking and struggle to do much but sit and rest..theres no way one can do exercise.
Secondly, I have a biochemistry nutritionist that I back up my results and realised how fortunate I was to not rely on the dr like many that dont know otherwise just turn to a dr.
Doctors predominately and unfortunately are not specialised for nutritional care and support, they are pharmocologically inclined to prescribe synthetic drugs or refer to a psychiatrist etc where more drugs are suggested. Its far from the nutritional medicine interest and they dont bother as it wont I reckon give them a return in their pocket to dish out more and keep having patients return unwell…they run a business to maintain sickness instead of wellness…
My chances of full recovery are uncertain post-surgery and the dr wants me to take anti-depressants for my symptoms. I consider this absurd. He has helped me in other ways for govt reports and paperwork but thats as far is it goes. He rant and raved about me wanting a full blood count panel test so I had to accept less checked to please him. He wasn’t pleased to hear that I was seeing a nutritionist and put the profession down. He even supported that drugs do the same as nutrition and they are better! Unbeleivable.
My psychologist referred me another dr with nutritional acceptance so I will I think for my next blood testing go see this other dr and see what the dr is like for me.
When you have so many symptoms that weaken you, it takes a while to get proactive and unfortunately time lags on and our nutritional deficiency worsens.
I have found that after some researching about treating B12, the sublingual spray is the best. The benefits surpass the others in my opinion. You have the spray bottle with you (its a purse/pocket size), use it when you want as much as you want. Its actually cheaper than taking shots without side effects of infections and pain and traveltime, appointments & waiting etc.. Also, sublingual is the most effective for the body to get it absorbed and fastest.
I take up to 20 sprays a day sometimes 30, you cannot overdose on it so it is safe and you are in control.
Hope that helps readers and SnowWhite.
Thanks.
I was born with Iron deficiency anemia and had to be given iron the first several years of my life. My mother was always concerned the anemia would return once I got older, but I didn’t develop any symptoms so it went unchecked. Since the age of 20 I’ve tried to give blood twice and was denied because they said I was “boderline” anemic. Not sure what they meant by that, but of course it was a a local Red Cross so that was as far as the testing went.
Now I’m a month shy of turning 29 and over the past several years I’ve developed a lot of strange symptoms. And being a really healthy person the symptoms definitely stood out to me as something not normal. I first would get dizzy and light headed randomly. Then over the past year or so I started getting headaches and really feeling mentally not “with it”. I couldn’t remember things that used to come really easily to me, I had a very hard time concentrating, I was irritable and I honestly thought to myself, “wow, surely I’m too young to be losing my memory or to be developing alzheimer’s”. I really felt like I was going crazy. And I also sometime can’t think of simple words when having a conversation with someone. I just feel not as smart as I was, like I’ve somehow back-tracked mentally. Also, at night I would feel like my chest was heavy, not really hurting, but just tight and heavy. Like something was standing on it. And then recently the headaches started getting worse and I would feel like passing out nearly every day. And one day last week my calves and then my thighs felt really tired like I’d been lifting heavy weights, but I hadn’t. Then the next day it was in my arms.
All of those things are still going on with me, and I went to a new Dr. today to get it checked out. I told him my past history with iron deficiency anemia and they did some blood work. I have a follow up appointment in 2 weeks. I originally was concerned about the iron deficiency coming back, but after reading all of your blogs and everyone’s experiences, I feel like maybe it is B-12 causing the problem. I haven’t been able to really accurately describe what I’ve been feeling, but I can relate completely to all the symptom descriptions on here.
Can you give me any advice toward handling my Dr. and voicing my concern about B-12 possibly being the reason for my feeling bad?
Hi Ally,
If you feel uncomfortable with your doctor, just get the tests done asking specifically what you want assessed eg. vitamin b12 levels and folate and thyroid and iron, they all interconnect with each other. If the doctor understands some nutrition it can be useful if not take it to a nutritionist or biochemical nutritionist/live blood dry blood biochemistry nutritionist. They will be specific in what is going on and are in favour of your wellness, they also do testing themselves but also can suggest getting that blood testing done thru the dr…if all else fails let me know & I can give you my referral who would happily get to the bottom of what your results present or what you want to do…there could very well be other underlying health aspects to address.
Hope that helps.
SnowWhite, your level, at 100 is extremely low. You should be getting injections immediately.
After weeks of dizziness, wobbly gait, extreme fatigue but inability to sleep well, heart pounding and terrible back aches, depression, anxiety and apprehension/nervousness my B12 was measured at around 160. I can’t imagine feeling any worse than I do at that number. My doc who is up on the latest said that although they list norms at 200 – 400 and above he says I must increase mine to at least 400. Ordered 5 weekly injections to begin, get levels and proceed from there. I frankly think I should have begun with every other day injections for at least first week, but he’s the doctor!
After first injection yesterday I don’t see much change but I also had terrible metallic taste in mouth constantly and esp. after eating – that has seemed to subside somewhat. Hopefully the rebound won’t be slow and I can get rid of the light headedness and “out of body” feelings!!
I find it facinating that doctors would rather write a prescription for anti-depressant medication instead of giving a B12 injection. They act as if we were asking for narcotics. I have been to three different doctors and have got three very different opinions as well. You would think there should be some guideline for treating this condition.
My husband’s B12 level is under 100 even after receiving a series of shots and going once a month for shots for over a year. He is now going once every 3 weeks to get a shot. He is just exhausted all the time. Thank you so much for taking the time to write about your struggles. I did not realize how serious this is. I will be making an apppointment for him to get the suggested blood tests again.
Thank you for this blog. I have suffered with this for years. Most Doctors do not want to give the shots. My range now is 362. And I am having many symptoms. When it gets lower I get in a really bad way. It is my feeling that greed plays a big role in the way some Docs treat there patients. I had to search out to get a B-12 injection. The B-12 injections have always helped me. But most doctors do not want to hear this. They had rather give a strong medications. If this would just happen to more Docs maybe things would change. Thanks
Hi, I had my bloods done two months ago and the doctor told me my iron and B12 levels were low,he told me to take iron tablets for a couple of months and go back to him.
Two months were up last week and I got my bloods done again, my iron levels went fron 9 to 20 and b12 went from 80 to 120, he told me to keep taking the iron tablets for another few months to maintain iron levels. I was wondering should I be getting B12 shots aswell? I am feeling very tired,extremly moody and dizzy from time to tme.
Hi,
Thanks
I was told by my doctor about 1 yr ago that I have very low b-12 level (I don’t know the exact #), she recommended montly injections which I have faithfully done. Went back for recheck about 4 months ago-still low and need to continue. I also have anxiety problems that i have had for 6+ yrs and had no luck controlling that with meds of any kind, plus I don’t like taking them they make me tired. I was wondering if my anxiety could all be caused by my B12 defiency all along? I heard it takes years for it to get so low. Also do you think I might need to get more than montly, perhaps weekly would be better to get my level up sooner? Any suggestions are appreciated ! I am glad I finally know why I feel so crappy, and sometimes if I get up from sitting my ankles hurt so bad I can hardly walk, could this be from the b12?
Jenny B,
If your B12 levels were at 80 and your doctor did not immediately start you on B12 shots, get another doctor. I’m glad your numbers are going up, but if you don’t treat B12 deficiency as quickly as possible you are putting yourself at risk for permanent side effects. A B12 level of 80 is extremely low and dangerous. If you can’t get the shots you need to be taking b12 every day until you figure out what type of deficiency you have. I always recommend that you follow your doctors recommendations, but you also need to be pro-active about your health and find a doctor that knows how serious this is.
Seems classic… I have symptoms like many people here and tested at 149 ng/l but the doctors just seem to want to treat depression. For whatever reason the serum B12 normal low range on my bloodwork goes to 120! I recently moved to a new country and find it harder than I expected to navigate a new medical system, but the doctors seem consistent here with others’ experiences.
Now I’ve been referred to a neurologist, but there is a 1-2 month wait. In the meantime I’m just doing the high dose supplements and hope I can heal myself over the long haul!
Symptoms for me have been weakness in hands, tingling (often almost ‘burning’ or painful) in arms and occasionally chest, fatigue but insomnia, unexplained crying spells, and general mental fog. I forget things more easily and can’t focus. All the symptoms come and go but the weakness and tingling are pretty much daily now. I feel thankful that I am still able to function relatively well and hopeful that treatment will improve all these symptoms!
I have been a vegetarian for four years. Who knew…
Hi, I have had problems with low iron since I was in my twenties when I had my two pregnancies. I am forty now and have just been diagnosed with B12 deficiency (104) and have finished a course of five injections. It has been two weeks now, and I have to say that I do no feel any better and am a bit concerned. How long does it take to take effect? I am really struggling toget through the day as I am so tired all the time, I get really confused and have a poor memory. I am also getting numbness in my right arm and hand! I am so moody its scary and get wobbly on my feet.
Please, can someone shed some light on this, thank you
Unfortunately many doctors just want to treat us for depression rather then figure out what is really going on.
Rachel – it takes a long time to start to feel better. For me it was very gradual, it was months before I started to really feel better and it was a slow process. It took more then a year for me to really feel good. B12 deficiency is a very serious condition that just isn’t checked for enough. Hopefully they caught it in time and you will be able to fully recover. Be sure to continue your shots and/or take vitamins (I prefer sublinguals). Don’t lose hope , you will feel better as long as you continue to be proactive in your health care.
please can someone help me.
i am very confused and i do not know what is happening to my body.
for 7 years i have had serious stomach problems, i was told this is IBS. recently it got so bad i kept returning to the doctors. many blood tests later and we still had no idea what was happening.
one doctor finally tested my B12 levels last november. my number was in the 90′s. i was given 3 b12 injections for 2 weeks then my treatment was reuced to one injection every 3 months.
My symptoms are awful, constant tummy problems, mouth and throat ulcers, extreme tiredness, lack of concentration and memory, and the list goes on. the worst part is, i work in fitness and cannot teach classes, which have made my work place unbearable for me.
i went back to the doctors as more recently my sugar levels seem to be up and down constantly, and i get shaky sometimes, i now also have a constant numb toe. my doctor said they can change my treatment to one injection every 2 months but thats the maximum treament i can have, and there isnt much more they can do.
i saw a specialist who said my diet was to blame, i dont eat red meat, but i consume alot of dairy and he said it was that which was causing my symptoms, he also said my tummy problems must be IBS.
one doctor has mentioned the link between tummy problems and B12 anemia.
i think the lack of interest in my doctore when it came to all my tummy trouble has led to me b12 anemia, for nearly 7 years my tummy was never even looked at, as it was dismissed as IBS.
also i have had depression for many years, something they feel caused my IBS.
im very confused and i dont know if they problems with my tummy are connected to my B12 deficiency.
can anyone fill me in??
I’m so glad to have found this website. I’ve been feeling exhaused for about 3 months. I have major hair loss, memory loss, feels like I’m in a fog…I can’t concentrate. I’m having blurred vision, loss of balance, slurred speech at times. I’m down to 125lbs from 160lbs. I have no appetite and have to make myself eat! I’m having mood swings. I’m on prozac and xanax. I had a bowel resection in 2006 removed part of intestine which absorbs B12. My dr just did labwork. He said everything came back fine except enlarged RBCs which happens to be a sign of B12 deficiency. I’ve insisted on more thorough test including serum methylmalonic acid test and homocysteine levels. I’m going this week for labs. Are there any other labs I should have tested?
Mel – Stomach problems can be a main cause of pernicious anemia. If you are not happy with your doctor, don’t be afraid to get a second opinion. I can tell you for a fact that one shot every two months is not the maximum you can have. I went to quite a few doctors before I found one that knew the severity of b12 deficiency and would treat me properly.
Lisa – Your story is also very similar to mine. You are getting all the right tests done, you just want to be sure NOT to take any B12 shots or supplements before your tests. Once they get an accurate account of your deficiency, then you want to get lots of b12 into your system. Remember that recovery can take a long time, so hang in there.
Thank you for this post. Upon looking into whether I have a thryoid problem, my doctor happened to mention that my B12 was a little low and I should take a daily pill. I started doing so without really thinking about how or why it was low. Well I found your post as well as other articles which made me realize I could very well be deficient and that could be causing some of my issues- I seem to have almost all these symptoms. I am on 80mg of Nexium a day for 5 years now and that can easily cause issues with your B12 absorption, but no one ever told me that. Im also reading that just taking a pill will not fix this.
So I called my doctor today to find out the exact # of my B12 and turns out it is 389- right below normal. Is it possible I am still deficient? I really recognized myself with the symptoms and the risk factor of the PPI usage but now it seems I’m not that low at all….
Hi, I finally found a site thats useful. My doctor said my level of b12 was at 280 and Im depressed feel really weak and tired; at times feel like im gonna fall and pass out, I have a loss of apitite and I forget things alot. I got an injection yesturday my first one and I feel worst today than yesturday. I don’t know why I have low b12 I had my son a year ago, that’s the only thing I can think of that might caused this. I just hope I get better soon cause I know what this sdoes to you. my mom was hospitalized because of this after having that gastro bypass surgury she was paralyized (which she has gotten way way better now) and has loss of memory (which she still has).
Fingers cross i will get better!!!
Hi. I am 25 years old and was just diagnosed with B12 Deficiency. I am fatigue, irritable, tingly, numb, twitchy, shakey, loosing my hair, very forgetful, clumbsy, loss of balance and coordinaction. My B12 Level was at 31. I always have headaches. My Doctor put me on the shot imediately. Everyday for a week, then once a week, and then once a month for the rest of my life. I am beyond frustrated. I can’t sleep, eat and I am constantly loosing weight. I feel like crying everyday and I am very very cranky. I just want to feel better as quick as I can.
Holly,
You are so lucky that you have a doctor that knows how to treat B12 Deficiency! I know exactly what you are going through and all I can tell you is that now that you are being treated you will start to feel better. Unfortunately it is a slow process and it may take months for you to start to feel better and even years before you know how much you will recover. I know it’s frustrating, but hang in there. Getting diagnosed is usually the hardest part, it will just get better from here. Good Luck!
Hi – Like everyone else I just found out that I am B-12 Deficient. After feeling awful since last November I am hoping this is going to help me. I started out with this strange rash, floaters in my vision, tired all the time, and this weird white sore under my tonge which I have been to 5 doctors (including Cancer Doc) and no one knows what it is. It comes and go’s. They keep saying that all of this is stress. I have been to more doc this year. I have gained weight because I have no energy to do anything. I am usually a very active person who can’t sit still. I am hoping this B-12 shot is going to be the answer to my problems. I keep telling these doc’s that something is lacking in my body. Finally my gyno took some blood test and found that my B-12 was low. I know how everyone feels. It is very aggravating.
I’m sending a followup on an email I sent in 2009. My B12 level is over 2000 and I get a shot once a month. Everything blood wise is good, however, I still have numbness or the doctors have called it neuropathy in my feet,legs and hands. I go to the Neuro doctor in about 6 months hoping for better things to happen. My daily sublingual taking of B12 1000 I believe is the reason for my high B12 readings.
Hey
Im 22 and just discoverd last week that I needed b12 and well the doctor didnt said anything he just give me those pills to take everyday, I thought it wasnt a big deel until I check on the internet. After reading all this I beging to wory cause I have 107 so I gest its not realy good, what should I do, cause the doctor is not realy helpful in all this. I see that a lot of poeple went to see a neurologist is it important… Should I realy be worry.
Thank you for your insight.
I was diagnosed last year with “critically low B12 levels”. I don’t remember what the number was now, but it was somewhere around 60. The doctor said even most elderly people don’t have levels that low. He started me on shots immediately, but since I kept getting worse with added weird symptoms he decided to give me a blood transfusion and admit me to the hospital so they could monitor me and try to figure out what my other symptoms meant. I ended up staying in the hospital for over a week. They never fully figured out my other stomach issue, but they believe it was probably tied to the B12 issue.
After I was released from the hospital, I was given daily shots for two weeks, then was moved to once every other week, then to once a month. Though my levels were very slowly moving up, I still felt awful. I complained to my doctor a few times, but he ended getting frustrated with me. Eventually, I just stopped getting the shot, because I didn’t feel like I was getting any better and arguing with my doctor was also not getting me anywhere.
I recently started realizing I was feeling very much like I did when I was originally diagnosed. However, I kept excusing/ignoring the symptoms. It wasn’t until a couple of days ago that I put the pieces together and thought it may be B12 rearing its ugly head again. I went for blood work this morning.
I’m not a very patient person. If I don’t feel like getting anywhere, I’m likely to drop it, move on and hope for the best. My question is how long does it take to get better? If my expectations are realistically set, I am more apt to continue treatment. But, to keep beating my head against a brick wall and not get anywhere seems silly and a huge waste of time. Any guidance you can give me would be very helpful.
I was diagnosed with vit b12 deficiency 2 weeks ago. My Blood level was at 116, apparently drastically low. I have started b12 injections one time every two weeks and have had 2 shots. I have noticed no difference at this point except a very sore arm from the injection. A Methylmalonic Acid test was done and came back normal. This puzzled my doctor as my diet consists of alot of b12. I am so confused, why would i be b12 deficient and have the test come back normal. Could it be a mistake and I am not deficient? I have had symptoms of extreme fatigue, weakness, irratibility, high anxiety, sore muscles, absolutely no form of energy at all, very cloudy thought process, can’t remember anything etc etc. Over the last four years I have been sent to Endocronology where they told me I was estrogen deficient then to a gastro dr were they said I had IBS and a twisted colon. I have since been treated for both of these issues and still have all the same symptoms. I am 26 years old have a son and a full time student I am sooooo tired of this!!!!!!
Tiffany & Jackie,
I understand your frustrations! B12 deficiency is a complicated condition and causes many different problems and symptoms. You must have patience and stick with getting treatment! It can take YEARS for you to recover, and even months to just start feeling better. Most likely it took years for your body to become as deficient as it is and you will not recover overnight. It is a long, sometimes frustrating, recovery. I remember crying after my first few weeks of shots because I didn’t feel any better. But if you stick with your shots/supplements your body will eventually start to heal itself. You may never fully recover (especially from neuropathy) but I promise you will feel much, much better then when you were diagnosed. And if you stop treatment you will not only go back to how bad you were, but continue to get worse.
Please hang in there and keep me posted on your recovery:)
HI I have been diagnosed with low b12 156. They want me to come in a start injections immediately. I am not sure on the amount I will receive. Hopefully my doc is up to date on this and takes it seriously. I have been doing lots of research on the causes of low b12 and seem to be seeing a lot of people are relating it to Celiac\Gluton allergy. Do you know of this I just want to be proactive when I go to see my doctor for the 1st shot and besure that I am treating everything. It seems the symptoms are very similar. What are your thoughts on this?
I was just diagnosed with B12 and Vit. d deficiency; also, other b vitamin deficiencies.
I had been to numerous doctors; anti-depressants, Zanax, etc.
Total loss of appetite, numbness, tingling,depression, incomnia.
Finally, I went to a neurologist and the diagnosis was made.
Presently, I am on weekly B12 injections; Vit. D prescription, and supplemental B Vit. Calcium and Magnesium.
This has been a very frightening and frustrating experience. I, too, did not realize how serious this can be, and the possibility of permanent damage. But, I feel so greatful for a diagnosis.
I was recently tested and came back with a 228 B12. (I was tested 5 years ago and was at 400) Doctor said I was dangerously low and had to be treated immediately with one shot p/day for 5 days in a row. Then I have to go in and be retested in two weeks. What I found very interesting is that he said the 1000mg tablets would take 100 days to have the same effect as the 5 shots. (I was given the choice of which I preferred, I took the shots) He tested me for the intrinsic blocking factor and that came back negative. (Means I can absorb B12 when it goes in, but…I can’t seem to hang on to it)
After years and years of multiple symptoms that many of you list above, I believe I have a start to the problem. I believe the B-12 deficiency is a symptom to the underlying issue at hand, but what a relief to be on the path finally! Hopefully the doctor/s will not try and treat this symptom with merely with a bandage and move on, but that they will look to the source of this problem/symptom.
List of symptoms: Fatigue, numbness, facial pain, tingling, tremors, nerve pain in hip groin area, cognitive issues, balance issues, white spots on skin, shortness of breath, eye twitching, heart palpitations, serious memory loss, confusion and difficulty concentrating.
If anyone comes up with interesting reasons for B-12 deficiencies, I would love to hear them!
Blessings,
Jo
My husband was suffering from hand tremors for about 6 months and mentioned to Dr. who did blood work and called him to say he was B12 deficient. He started him on weekly shots, then 2X a month, then monthly, etc., for about 3 months…in the meantime he referred him to a neurologist who says he has Parkinson’s….we sought a 2nd opinion from another neurologist and he says the same…only symptom is hand tremors….after the b12 shots and taking sublingual b12, had his blood tested again and his numbers were off the charts–1200! Dr. refuses to give him B12 shots anymore and he has (against my better judgment) begun PD meds. Is it normal for a low B12 reading in the 100s to shoot up to 1200 after 3-4 months of treatment? I still think his problem is not Parkinson’s but B12 related. He is not vegan, eats lots of meats, etc., so something is going on to have caused his body to not absorb the b12 in the first place. Any comments are most appreciated.
I have suffered from headaches/migraines for years and finally went to a neurologist who ordered blood work and MRI as standard. I was shocked when they called and told me that my B12 was 198 and my vitamin D was low (don’t remember what it was) I was told that I have to give myself injections once a week for 12 weeks and take 4 Vitamin D pills over 4 weeks. The only other symptoms I have is insomia and fatigue but I’m a single mom and I go go all the time, so I guess I don’t think anything of it. I eat meat every day, but I eat one meal a day and I am full and I never want to eat dinner because I still feel full from lunch. Only once in a while do I feel a little light headed. I don’t have any other symptoms associated with B12 deficiency so I don’t get it?? The only reason I think I might have it is I have IBS from having my Gallbalder removed 10 years ago and my body has never been the same since. No one else has mentioned having headaches or migraines with low B12?? I don’t think this is the only reason for my headaches.
Thank you.
I was recently in an accident. I was hit by a semi in Sept. I have had hypothyrodism for years and treating for it also. But after the accident I left my Dr and went to another due to trust issues. I sustained a closed head injury,back and neck injuries in the accident. But for the purposes of treatment after the accident I went through some blood work. I was told that I was severly low on B-12. I was told that the normal level was 900 and I began once a month injections. After 5 injections I have just now hit 200. But I am dizzy frequently, tired all the time, tingling and numbness even in my head, lots of headaches. Off balance and confussion are just some other symptoms. Some of this of course comes from injuries from the accident. But I cant help but wonder if I should be recieving more then one injection a month?? I dont even feel like I can function on most days. All I want to do is sleep anymore.
Also extrememly depressed and terrible anxiety. Which of course I am medicated for along with pain meds.
I have had iron anemia off and on since 1984. Well last year I was told by one doctor my B12 low then another look at it said no my iron was low not the B12 then in Jan of this year I am told my B12 is low at 205 but not the iron ok. I am cold all time, my memory sucks sometime the words can not come out at all,sometimes I can’t remember my kids names, I am so tired just can’t get up to do anything, I also have ringing in my ears that is new only in the last two years I though it was being around jets until I read it was was a symptom of B12. Right now I take shots every two weeks I am going to a Hematlogist on Friday I want to know why I have the Iron Anemia and B12 Deficiency. For a long time I thought it was a thyroid problem. I just want to feel better not be tried, cold, have headaches, pain etc and loss all my weight. The shots seem to pick me up for about two days the nurse told me to give them to me in the fat like my stomach I think this is wronge.
Hi can some please help me i had a blood test done in dec 2010 and my b12 levels where 260 in feb 2011 had the blood test done again and they are 229 it seen to be droping pretty qick am really having promblem rembering how to do my job, have tryed to talk to my doctor but says i have no promblem with my b12 can some please help me, how do i get help my moods are unbearable all i do is cry please help
Angelia,
I have never heard of anyone getting shots of B12 in their stomach. I have gotten them in the top of my rear in the past, but since I was diagnosed I get them in my arm. If you are getting B12 shots every two weeks and continue to get them you are on the right path and will gradually start to feel better. It is a long process and doesn’t happen over night so keep up the shots and it will get better.
Trudy,
You need to consult another doctor right away! It is important that you get the right treatment as soon as possible. Many doctors do not realize the severity of B12 deficiency and do not treat it properly, so don’t be afraid to change doctors until you find one that knows what they are doing. When your levels showed up as 260 your doctor should have immediately done more testing, then started you on B12 shots. The longer you wait to get treatment the harder and longer your recovery will be. Please take this seriously and get help right away.
Recovery is a long process, but you will start to feel better if you get the proper treatment.
Keep me posted!
Hi
i have just been diagnosed as borderline b12 deficient.
I have read up on the symptoms and i have most of them. The one which worries me most….at present…. is my hair loss. i have lost about 70% or more and it is even vanishing from my arms and legs. I am also fed up of feeling exhausted all the time. If i am on my feet for too long i start to shake and feel light headed if i dont sit down i pass out. This morning i made my 8 year old daughter cry because we were late for school and i`d left her to get dressed whilst i lay on my bed for five minutes. She hadnt got dressed and i shouted at her!!! i feel dreadful now even though she went into school happily.. glad to get rid of me i suppose. i shouldn`t expect her to get ready by herself because i am so tired. I have to be up early.. quarter to six on school days to get my son up and showered for the school bus at 7.30 and then i get my daughter up by this time i am tired and shakey but i still need to get her to school. i really dont feel i can cope much longer and i am worried that being borderline b12 defficient wont get me the jabs i have heard so much about.
Should i be having such bad symptons just being borderline. i also have headaches forgetfulness…i forgot my own door number the other day! and a heavy pressure in my chest almost all the time and numbness in my left arm and fingers. It isnt my heart, i`ve had that checked although i do have a slight murmur.
I would be really grateful if anyone could help with what range “borderline” would fall.
How low/high would i have to be to insist on the injection
i will be grateful for any advice
Elizabeth,
I am very curious to know ~ what were your b12 levels? Many doctors vary in what they think is deficient. Many say that anything below 200 is deficient, but I feel that doctors who really understand b12 deficiency are the ones who say the number is more like 400. Keep in mind that the numbers are just a guideline, the level that you start to have symptoms can vary. Is your doctor giving you b12 shots? As I’ve said many times, once you get the shots it will take time before you start to feel better. It is a slow process and you need to have patience, but once you start treatment you are on the road to recovery.
Keep me posted.
ABout 7 years ago I was diagnosed with b12 deficiency as my levels consistently run around 100. Even with shots they stick around 300-400. About 6 weeks ago I began the 2500mcg sublingual pills. I recently had my B12 levels tested again and they were 740. This is great, however my RBC and WBC are a tad low. In the past when my W and R BC’s have been low it was because my B12 was low. Is it possible the sublingual pills raised my levels? or could it be a mistake by the Lab?. Im just a bit leary of the high levels.
Hi, I was diagnosed with B12 deficiency anemia in early march. was on antibiotics which gave me a constant upset stomach so I guess I flushed everything out. Before I was diagnosed I had dropped like 15 lbs in a month. Then I was really tired and at times achy like I was catching a cold. Then the tremors and rapid heart rate began at times I get light headed and such… got tested two weeks before the tremors started and it was 240….. it was probably lower once I got to the doctor he then gave me an injection and told me to take 1000mcg supplement a day.So I do.. 2 weeks ago I started injections once a week along with supplements just got blood test today and it was like 1300….. should it go to the extreme .. B12 is water soluble so it is highly unlikely for an overdoes but wow. granted I just had the shot friday and by the time I need another shot I usually start getting tired again. I guess it means at least I am retaining it to a point but I have read that mega doses or vitamin b12 is the way to treat it and then it will eventually level off. I am hoping my symptoms go away but I have been told and read it takes about a year to get normal again. Any input or comments would be greatly appreciated thank you
Leah
Hi all,
I just wanted to tell you that hypothyroidism is a culprit of many of the symptoms I see people listing here.
These are the tests you want run by a Dr. who knows what they’re doing.
TSH
FT3
FT4
RT3
B12
VitD
Iron
Ferritin
Can someone pls advise me, I am desperate.
I have a family history of pernicous anemia and was feeling very tired like I couldnt even get up and I am 28, I figured being a single mum with studies this was just normal though deep down Ithought what is going on, I cant even get up, heart palpitations, so extremely lethargic for no reason, complete brain fog and confusion, I went to doctors for panick attacks thinking maybe its that, they wasnted to send me to a psych for depression, then another doctor said I had an excessive heart rate and gave me pills, when getting home I looked at my blood test and b12 was 212. I went back saying my family has history of this pls are these levels too low, I am always tired, it is not depression pls help me ( literally worried I wont wake up in the morning for my son I thought I was bloody dying this cannot be right to feel sick and tired and not able to do the dishes, and complete brain confusion ) so he agreed to test me though assured me those levels were completely fine. Same result again, my b12 levels just over 200 again. He insists there is no problem because folic is at an appropriate level, can someone pls give me some advice, should I accept this, go to another doctor I have been to two already, I cannot go on like this, all my bloods and everything else comes back fine, my thyroid level is also low, so it could be hyperthyroid which I am getting an ultrasound for next wk, I just need input because I keep getting told this level is fine and I have NO energy an hour a day and the rest I am literally have NO energy and I am getting worried because no doctor is listening to me and I have a young child to run after. If the doctor feels just over 200 is ok, will vitamin b pills from chemist help?
My GI doctor recently diagnosed me with a B12 deficiency and started me on weekly injections. I called my primary doctor and neurologist and found out they have never checked my B12 levels, so I don’t have any idea how long I have been deficient, but do know that I have been having severe migraines and vertigo since my 2nd child was born (4 years ago). 6 months ago I had to start on an anti-depressent. My question is, have you experienced or heard of B12 shots, raising your levels to the point that it would correct things like this? Most specifically-the migraines-now I take BC pills & Topomax & have seen no relief- could this be from the lack of B12?
been told i was anemic since 1996. ms diagnosis in 2004 b/c of optical neuritis and leasions without lyme disease. had bypass surgery in 2007 and told i had possible chrons, by 2009 was complaining of concentration issues and memory loss. memory test normal, but prob didnt take into acct my high iQ and it was mainly #s which is like savant for me. thyroid has always been ok and to the side that i should be thin even with goiter, bulging eyes and brittle nails and cold sensitivity and family history- i like it above 77 – 90*. even moved to fl recently from mass and am freezing in the ac and unless it is over 80 out. in 2009 was told i was ADD, meds did not help, only with fatigue but i also have ms which was diagnosed in 2004. finally sent to hematologist in march of this year and b12 was 148. in mid april had 5 straight shots and then another 2 weeks later (all 1,000 mcg) also consumed a stacker b12 10,000% of rdv in that month. had blood done again it was 318. dr. expected it to be 1200 and was perplexed. now going 2x a month for b12 shots. i do not drink, use drugs other than ambien ( for sleep – prob from low b12), occasional adderal ( for ms fatigue), or flexeril (for ms spasms).sometimes meds make me retain 15 lbs of water in like 3 days so i stop taking them – oh and depo provera for birth control which stops menstration and about to start klonopin for anxiety. cardiac echo and stress came back good. have been able to get off the iron supplements as my iron is now high for a woman. i OD on multi-vitamins, vitamin D and calcium. my dexa scan came back ok for now. i understand the lack of ability to absorb through consumption orally and had been taking 7 times the rdv for years and up until b12 def. discovery. how long does it take to get b12 up there? are they any other reasons i might not be able to store b12 or absorb shots? or ways to better help shot absorption? looking at the signs of dementia i am about 75% down the list. only improvements are palm pains and hand tingling have gone. but about to see rhumetologist for finger and shoulder pain. ST memory loss is huge unless contact and reminders are consistent. some other test came back off which hinted at possible heart disease but cholesterol is to kill for and cardiologist checked out everything is ok. b6 is also beginning to get low now. any suggestions, criticism, hints, what ever appreciated. thanks!!!
i have copied linda’s list to compare to blood work results already taken to see if i can have other tests looked into being done to rule those out.
i have been put on injections once a week for 20 weeks then they will test the levels again. my level was 138. It got discovered when I went to the doctor with shock-like nerve pain in my face. He decided to do a complete blood work up and I am so glad he did. The doctor before kept on giving me antibiotics thinking it was just an infection. I have many other symptoms also and I am just hoping for some relief
Hi,
I am going through major pain from low B12. In March I told my family doctor I wasn’t feeling good so he reluctantly did blood work and it came back at 94 with my white blood count being low as well. He said to take Vit B12 and see him in a month. Well when I tried to go back he was out of the country until May 27. Finally around May 10th I went to the hospital as my tongue hurt so bad. The emerg. doctor was really good and set up an appoint. with a Internist. I saw him and he was basically pretty upset because of my pain symptoms, tingling, vibration, tongue pain etc. He said this is way too low. He perscribe B12 shots (I do my own injections) immediately plus lots of blood work which I have had already. When will I start to feel better?
Thank you,
Brenda
Hi Brenda,
It sounds like you found a great doctor who is concerned about your incredibly low levels and that is half the battle! It will take a while for you to really feel better, so don’t get discouraged. Everyone is different with how they respond to the treatment, but it seems like anywhere from one to three months is how long it takes for people to start to feel batter. It can take years for your body to recover as much as it can. Stick with your shots and it will get better, I promise!
Take care:)
Hello-
My story is similar but I am scared. In 2007 I was erroneously dx with MS. The neuro who dx me did get my b12 level every yr but ignored it. It was 282 the first yr. When he left the clinic and was replaced this yr the first thing the new dr said was that she felt I was mis dx. She gave me the results from every yr and they were currently at 150. I knew nothing about b12. but by this time my feet were numb my hands feel like tuning forks, touch reverberates and is prickely. I am sick to my stomach. I have had all the other tests which all of you should have.
When you are b12 deficient you need to find out why. It needs to be treated but there is more to it than that and if you have pernicious anemia, penurious means fatal. Ppl used to die from this. This is a very serious disorder. If your dr is not taking you seriously get another dr. Reasons for this, as some have said,can be due to long term use of medicines for acid reflux, chrons, cancer, etc. In my case they cannot determine why. Also, if you have this chances are you will have to treat it for life. I will give myself a shot, at least monthly, for life.
Also, there are four stages of b12 deficiency. I have the misfortune to continue to decline. I can barely walk now,and I reported to the dr. Last Oct. That my feet felt like I was always wearing socks. The sharp decline has been horrible and I fear I will not recover.
Also, the folks who have talked about stomach issues, b12 is absorbed in your small intestine, so if you have intestinal issues, it can definitely be why you are where you are. Please do some research and educate yourself. You may need a different type of b12 shot if your methylmalonic acid is out of whack. So many facts come into play. And because b12 is a soluble vitamin, you do not store it, just a small amount in the liver,so you can take a lot.
Finally, my spelling, eyesight and use of this stupid iPad with auto complete combine to make this possibly a funky read, so I apologize if that has happened.
I’m so thankful for all the information. I’ve been having many of the b12 deficiency symptoms the fatigue, depression, memory loss, breathlessness etc. I went to the Dr and my B12 was at 137 and he acted like it wasn’t a big deal. But he did give me a b12 shot and I’m going to be getting them once a month for a while. Next time I see a Dr I will be much more prepared with the facts. And in the meatime I think I’ll add some more supplements myself and hopefully I’ll be feeling much better soon.
Doreen,
Good for you for being proactive about your health. The more facts you know the better! At least he did perscribe the shots, although it would be better if you could get them every two weeks to start. If you do start to feel better, do not let them stop your shots just because your B12 levels come back high in the blood work. Keep getting them for as long as you can. If you do stop and start to feel worse, get back on them asap. You don’t know why you are deficient, so you don’t know if you just haven’t been eating enough food with B12 or if you have pernicious anemia, which means you lack the ability to carry the B12 through your body. If this is the case you will have to take additional forms of B12 for the rest of your life to keep healthy. Good Luck and feel better!
Hello all In have known for several momnths now that I have a b12 anemia problem..Mine was 68 and my doctor has been giving me shots once a week for months now and mines still not were it should be..I feltn feel so drained an my legs felt like they were 100 pounds . Years ago i was told I had tacyhacardia (rapid heart beat)been on antenolol for years…I’m in another state and can’t get my shot and I’m feeling it right now.Has anyone be told they have this heart problem in result for b12 anemia?
Hi
I am 28yrs old and have been ill for prob 8months now! the doctors done blood tests on me and found that my b12 levels were about 150 and i am also folate deficient! They found that out straight away but said im only slightly low and they have seen worse. and they have said they will put me on injections but they have been doing tests to find out why and wont treat me tell they know why! The thing is, its got to the point where i feel so bad and so depressed its ruining my life! I have a physical job which i am seriously struggling to do and im to tired and ill to go out with my friends or do anything! Apparently my Iron level is 14.1 which my Doctors tell me are normal?
After 8 months im getting worse and it seems the doctors are fobbing me off. All i want is to get my life back. Any advise/help would be much appreciated!!
Marlene,
I also experienced some heart problems when I was severly deficient, but it seems that everything went back to normal for me. I have not heard of anyone saying they had this heart problem in conjunction with B12 deficiency, but that certainly doesn’t mean it’s not connected. I hope you have gotten back on track with your shots and are starting to feel better.
Good Luck!
Sarah,
I totally understand how you feel, I lived it and it’s very frustrating when no one seems to take you seriously. Before I was diagnosed I really felt like no one was going to help me and that I was going to die. I know it’s hard, but the doctor is doing the right thing by not treating you right away, once you start treatment they will never get an accurated blood result back so they have to be sure they know what is going on. That said, it shouldn’t take more then a week, two tops and then they should start treating you. If it’s been 8 months without them treating you, FIND ANOTHER DOCTOR! You need to be your own advocate. Every doctor should consider 150 extremely low and at the very least be giving you one shot a month. Personally I would demand a shot a week until I started to feel better.
Good Luck! Wishing you a speedy recovery!
Hello.
I started with symptoms about 4 weeks ago. It started with pain in joints in hand, but have now spread to muscle and joint pain in hands, arms, legs, feet. I have had stomach issues for years so I take Nexium and Birth Control Pills daily. Both medications from what I read effect absorbtion of B12. Doctor did blood work checking for lupus, gout, rheumatoid, thyroid, creatnine, etc. Showed I am deficient in B12 and Vitamin D. My B12 is 226 (normal 243 to 894) and my Vitamin D is 11 (normal 30 to 100.) He only has me going in once a month for B12 injections for the next 3 months, and told me to take 800iu’s daily for the Vitamin D. From what I am reading, I am not getting enough injections of B12 and not taking enough D to bring the levels up. Any ideas?
i have been on b12 pills 250mcg one a day for about 6 plus months at first my b12 level was 76 then in 3 months it doubled to little over 140 now about a month ago its up to 150 should my b12 pills be a higher mcg as i was reading other comments above it should be over 400 my dr told me it was ok as long as it kept rising. I still feel tired no energy at all starting to get concerned with the above comments what should i do
Lisa,
Please get a second opinion right away. This is not something to mess around with. If my b12 levels were 76 I would be demanding shots at least once a week until I felt better. A b12 level of 150 is still way to low. It is really important to treat it right away. There are lots of side effects of b12, especially neurological, that must be treated as soon as possible or they may become permanent. While everyone needs a different dose and what I get might not be what works for you I just want to give you something to compare your 250mcg pill to – I get a shot of 1,000 mcg every other week and I take a sublingual of 500 mcg every day. Good luck, I hope you feel better soon!
I’m so glad I found this site. I though I was going crazy with my mind forgetting things and not being able to concentrate. My hands, spine, feet, and legs were tingling. I also have back pain that is ridiculous. I didn’t understand what was going on. I was rushed to the Emergency Room several times. I like many on this site was frustrated and annoyed at the Dr’s nonchalant attitude about my health. I started my first shot today. I will keep you all posted as to progress but I’m so glad I listen to my body. I didn’t realize how serious B-12 deficiency was. I would like to know do you recommend that I take a liquid B-12 vitamin instead if the pills for faster abortion? Also should I continue taking a multivitamin and my B12 supplement while on the shots weekly?
Ambitious Woman
Ambitious Woman,
I’m glad this site has been helpful to you. You should talk to your doctor about the best course of treatment, but I would definitely not stop getting the shots. Ask if it’s ok to take additional sublinguals if you want, I always do. My doctor also prescribes my multivitamin so you may want to ask about that as well. Good luck with your recovery!
I have been having a combination of symptonms since April 2011, these include numbness sensations, tingling in hands and feet, pins/needles, arms going to sleep at night during sleep. also I have been havng a light headedness feeling, suffering from repeating myself in conversations (according to my husband) and irritability. I especially dislike mornings and cannot tolerate noise first thing. So i went to see the doctor who did a lots of blood tests inc. vitamin b12 levels. The tests came back normal levels, apart from b12 which was 176, FBC is fine, I am not anaemic or have folic deficiencies just the b12. Further tests confirmed that I do not have intrinsic factor antibodies and I eat a good balanced diet with meat. The doctor seems unsure as to what to do next, I am taking sublingual supplements of b12 myself in the meantime whilst I wait. What do I say to the Doctors? They do not seem to be too worried and am happy for me to take my own supplements. Please can anyone relate to/help?
In May 2010 (age 36) I was diagnosed with a B12 level of 66. It was another month before I started receiving B12 shots as my doctor wanted to do more tests to find out what was causing the deficiency.One set of blood tests was lost and then another set came back unequivocal. Eventually they diagnosed me with pernicious anaemia.I then had a loading dose of one shot every other day for 2 weeks then one every 3 months.I still felt dreadful, slept for ages,fatigued,confused,dizziness,memory loss,tingling so I went back to my doctor. She wanted to put me on antidepressants but I knew that my symptoms were due to the B12 deficiency and asked her to give me another loading dose/treat me more aggressively.She refused and said she was following the NICE guidelines with regards to treatment. Finally, after several visits to the doctor (and threatening to make a formal complaint about my treatment) she agreed to give me monthly shots. Since December I have been on monthly B12 shots and I take a 5000mg subligual. I’ve also just started taking folate and B12 supplements as I’ve read that if you’ve been deficient in B12, you need to ensure you have high b6 and folate levels to help in the healing process – I feel anything is worth a try. I feel much better than I did but still have a way to go. It’s a struggle to work full time because of the tiredness. My life pretty much consists of working, chores and resting.If I could work part time it would be a godsend but unfortunatly I can’t afford to. I just keep hoping that as each week/month passes together with taking the extra supplements, I will get better and better.
It has been reassuring where you state it can take YEARS before you body can recover as much as it can.
Hello,
I have had my second bloods taken so that they can double check my B12 levels before starting the injections. I went to the doctor because my hair was starting to fall out in larger amounts than normal.
After reading about the B12 deficiencies, I seem to tick all the boxes. I have constant headaches, though this has been put down to migraine. I am constantly tired, but again, this could be down to the medication I have to take for my other condition.
I am getting very painful neck ache. Is there anyone else out there who is getting this symptom? It also gives me a painful back and joints generally and again, I am putting this down to the B12 deficiency.
Tinnitus is another ailment I have had for many months and this has been treated as an infection,but now I am thinking that it could also be down to this B12 deficiency. I am probably hoping a little too much from all of this, but if this B12 injection would put an end to all the above, then it would certainly give me a happier outlook.
I found this site about the 4 different stages your body will go through and when your body may be able to reverse the effects of nerve damage the sooner you began treatment. I hope this helps some one:
“Four Stages of Vitamin B12 Deficiency”
1) Serum B12 concentration low; no clinical or metabolic abnormalities. Low plasma level of holotranscobalamin
2) plasma and cells stores B12 become depleted. Serum B12 is low with metabolic abnormalities
3)Increased level of HCY and MMA and low holotranscobalamin–low B12 level. Damaged metabolism, dU suppression is abnormal. Neuro-Psychiatric symptoms with mild haematological changes without anaemia
4)Clinical signs become recognisable (Addisonian criteria)
Macro Ovalocytosis
Elevated MCV or Erythrocytosis
Lowered haemoglobin
Patients presenting with the classical features of pernicious anemia (PA) would therefore be expected to have progressed through stages I II & III over several years.
Some vegans and patients with malabsorption of food cobalamin, may also progress through these stages. Sometimes over many years, but others may not progress beyond stage I or II. These considerations imply that there are many more individuals in stages I, II, & III of B12 Deficiency than in stage IV (PA).
Low nutritional-intake of Vitamin B12 may lead to negative balance and finally to functional deficiency when tissue stores of Vitamin B12 are depleted.
Early Diagnosis (stage I & II) of Vitamin B12 Deficiency seems to be useful because irreversible neurological damage may be prevented by cobalamin substitution.
TO Octavia:
Yes, I have experienced neck, spine, and headache pain so you are not alone. I also get the tingling in my hands and feet. The scariest moment for me was when I couldn’t concentrate and felt like I was losing my mind. No one understood what I was going through. Some family members thought I was over reacting and I just needed to stop being paranoid, but I insisted on going to the doctor and being seen. It was blood work showing that I was anemic and me listening to body’s symptom’s that kept me going. I had to become proactive about my health and I began researching information on B12 Deficiencies. I thank God I found this website along with several other’s that have really been helpful.
TO Rachel:
I found a really great website that broke down the different types of symptoms many may experience. Here are a few of the symptoms.
Early, Noticeable Symptoms of Overt B12 Deficiency:
Unusual fatigue
Faulty digestion
No appetite
Nausea
Loss of menstruation
Other Symptoms of Overt B12 Deficiency:
Numbness and tingling of the hands and feet
Nervousness
Diarrhea
Mild depression
Striking behavioral changes
Paranoia
Hyperactive reflexes
Fever
Frequent upper respiratory infections
Impotence
Impaired memory
Infertility
Sore tongue
Macrocytic anemia
Low platelet count and increased bleeding
Neutropenia
Thanks for the information.
So when I am told by a doctor that I have knotted muscles in my neck and shoulder, this might not be the case? I don’t want to throw money at a chiropractor when it’s something he/she is unable to resolve if it’s down to a deficiency in B12. I also have aches and pains across my body generally and at times a raw feeling across parts of my body which comes and goes, but I’ve never had shingles. Is this something anyone else has experienced?
Octavia,
I want to recommend an excellent book to you that I have been reading. It’s from a nurse who also suffered from B12 deficiency for two years without Doctor’s catching what was wrong. She has a ton of helpful information that has saved countless lives across the nation. Her name is Sally Pacholok and the name of the book is called “Could it Be B12? An Epidemic of Misdiagnoses,” You can order it online at Amazon, any book store, or check out your local library.She also has very informative advice on Better Medicine’s website you can check out her forum on Vitamin B12 deficiency being commonly misdiagnosed.You will read of many having pain in their body such as yours.
This book has changed my life and help open my eyes on many signs I have had for years. It can also help many loved ones or family members. My sister has had similar B12 deficiency symptoms and I encouraged her to go get tested also.
My Aunt had a B12 deficiency that was misdiagnoses and years later the doctor told her it was MS. We later found out she stop taking her B12 shots because the Dr told her that her B12 was normal again. What we didn’t know is that she had to remain on the B12 shots for life… even when your B12 Level’s are back at normal ranges of 400 or higher… not 200 which my Doctor has told me is WAY TOO LOW. The reference range for B12 in America is far too low so diagnosis can easily be missed. In Japan the B12 low range is at 550 which is 2.5 times higher at its low end and Japan has very little “Alzheimer’s Dementia”, and less depression and bipolar disorders, than we do in the US.
Once you find out if you are B12 deficient, I would suggest becoming a sponge to absorb as much information as you can on B12. Keep checking this B12 Anemia Blog, read books, research B12 deficiency “Pernicious Anemia” online, get your health care check ups to stay on top of this. If you have a Dr that is not aggressive treating you then find another one ASAP. It could save you a lot of agony in the future.
Here is Registered Nurse Sally’s website forum and make sure you read her book also:
http://forums.bettermedicine.com/showthread.php/9948-Vitamin-B12-deficiency-is-commonly-misdiagnosed.
I dont know if anybody can help me. Last year i received a letter from my GP to inform me that my B12 levels were very low at 85. My symptoms were constant mouth ulcers. I was given 2 weeks of injections and informed that i had pernicious anaemia. However since i have move to a new doctor, i have been told this is not the case. I have had numerous blood tests due to once again having the symtoms of mouth ulcers, tiredness etc. Every time my levels are tested, they have fallen (754, 267, 232, 187 in April). My last blood test in april showed that my levels had fallen to 187 (they were 754 after my inital shots). I seem to be getting nowhere with my GP’s, i keep getting told i have depression! I can tell my body is not right but dont know where to go from here. I have recently been very wheezy, have awful headaches and my vision is blurring. Can anyone offer any guidance? Many thanks.
Laura,
I can definitely offer guidence, GET A NEW DOCTOR! Pronto! I would love to know how your new doctor is able to tell that you do not have pernicious anemia. Once you start shots or other forms of treatment for B12 deficiency it is impossible to tell what your B12 levels truly are. The shots or suppliments will raise your B12 levels and it will appear as if you are not deficient (until they stop the treatment and your levels go down again). I have had to write and re-write this reply many times because the things I want to say about this new doctor of yours are not nice or appropriate. Please don’t be afraid to get a second, third, fourth opinion (or more if necessary) until you find a doctor that knows about B12 and will treat you properly.
Good luck, I hope you feel better soon.
Wow I am so glad I found this site. I went to Dr last week to check out HRC therapy due to so many of the same problems I have been reading about. HRC is expensive but they did blood work and called me to tell me my b12 was 140 and I needed to start shots daily and sublingual b12 today. I thought they was nuts but I guess they knew what they was talking about. I go tomorrow for my first b12 shot and I have been taking the b12 sublingual since they called. Now I wonder if my regular doctor has these low results from my yearly blood test. Think I will pay the Dr office a visit tomorrow and get a copy of past results.
I have had many of the things talked about about and a couple more. Breathing seems to be out of sorts and my left eye started twitching a few days ago. Does anyone have either of those things going on too.
My big question is why are so many people going to neurologist?
Thank you so much for your post Liz. Its nice to know that i am not going crazy, which is what doctors seem to make me feel!! I am going to search out a new surgery, and pray that someone listens to me and helps. Thank you.
Sheila,
Glad to see you found a good doctor who doesn’t take treating B12 lightly. I’m not sure about breathing problems, but I know that eye twitching/problems have been reported by people with B12 deficiency.
Many people, myself included, need to see a neurologist because B12 deficiency affects the nervous system and can result in all types of issues ranging from mild tingling in hands and feet to severe pain or memory problems or worse. If you haven’t had any of these issues, consider yourself very lucky!
Wishing you continued success and a speedy recovery!
I have autoimmune atrophic gastritis which has caused pernicious anemia. I have to give myself shots of B12 every two weeks. I have sufferd permanent nerve damage similar to neuropathy of a diabetic. I have pins and needles in my hands and feet as well as consant numbness. I also have lost the ability to start urination on my own which has caused me to be on a cath. It’s been a bumpy ride. My docotor assumes that I have been b12 deficient 10 years prior to ever being diagnosed.
I’m so glad I came across this forum. I was diagnosed with tachycardia last year which really scared me. I’m athletic and exercise regularly but last year my heart rate started jumping minutes into exercising (to 180-200) … My cardiologist did several heart tests but did not do any blood work. Last week I visited my regular doctor and she did blood work (which had not been done in 2+ years) and my b12 level was 65. She started me on injections once a week for 4 weeks and then I will get them once a month for 4 months and then transition to oral supplements.
I have definitely noticed a drastic drop in my energy level, especially since I’ve always had a high energy level and now I feel tired all day long. I’m hoping the injections will help in time with my energy level and my doctor also feels this may be the cause of my tachycardia.
Good luck to everyone dealing with this. I will continue to check back for more information and dialog.
Why, if I’m taking the shots do my levels keep dropping? I have body wide pain with mine as well as foggy thinking. I actually gained around 20 pounds because of my low levels. Did anyone else go through that?
Hi Tammy,
If you are getting shots properly (the correct amount and often enough) it is impossible for your numbers to keep dropping. One of the reasons doctors hold off treatment while they do more tests is because once they inject B12, the count will go up and will give a number that looks a lot better then it really is. I would double check on that with your doctor.
Pain, foggy thinking and weight gain/loss are all common symptoms of B12 deficiency.
I hope you feel better soon!
Hi. My b12 level has been at 153 for the last nearly 6 months although I have been getting the injections. I am tired nearly all the time and for a time also have experienced EXTREME mood swings and night sweats. I had my hormone levels checked, thinking it could be menopause, but my doctor says not a chance, my hormone levels are too high. I started taking wild yam, nonetheless and that has helped a bit. I am a vegan. I do not like meat and I don’t take dairy but I do eat loads of nuts and pulses and take Ormus Supergreens every day as well. My fatigue is what concerns me at the moment. I am a yoga teacher and there are days where all I want to do is go back to sleep! I have been checked for pernicious anemia, but was fine and for gluten intolerance, but ironically, I rarely eat wheat. I have the weight loss, but over time and all vegans I know get that. The mood swings were and can be HORRENDOUS and scary. Help.
Also meant to say that I have not menstruated or felt myself ovulate in about 10 weeks. I’m not pregnant and hormone levels are high. Thanks. Cheers.
hi there i had a blood disorder which was noticed about 8 years ago and i was only professionally diagnosed with anemia 2 years ago. i had numerous amounts of symptoms but my main concern was when my hair was falling out in clumps. i attended my local doctors for years but nothing was ever found so i changed doctors and within 3 months they had got answers to all my suffering. i am only 22 years old and have a 2 year old son an the symptoms i suffer from have had a massive impact on both our lives as he is so active and im always so weak and tired, i cant function properly get tired out easily breathless. i cannot eat properly which has now had an effect on my son and my main concern now is the light headedness, dizziness and shakes in my hands and loosing grip and dropping things. i also now have inflamed spleen and eye sight problems and insomnia. im really concerned about going back to my doctors as im scared of hearing that a lot of it will be iriversable. i also have a chronic pain which is causing nervousness and anxiety. i really wish i had changed doctors sooner as they may have been able to prevent this as itis no life for myself or my son. so i would recomend anyone with the 1st sign of anemia and b12 disorder to seek medical advice urgently!!!
I stomped into my doctors office a couple weeks ago demanding he figure out what was wrong with me.
I am sick and tired of people acting as if i am a hypochondriac
My hands hurt constantly, my feet are stiff and hurt when i go from relaxed to standing. I had these sores forming on the corners of my mouth.. and my gums were white and would bleed when i flossed. I am soooo tired.
My doctor promised to help me .. and said we would chip away at the block. He ordered blood tests and my B12 came back at 204. Which he said is “low normal” that 200-800 was normal. But wants me to take 1mg of B12 a day and a b complex and re check in 6 months. I do have a appt with a gastrointestinal doctor in Dec to do a scope of my colon & stomach. I was hoping the B12 supplements would be immediate relief.. but from what i have read.. that isn’t the case.
ugh..
Well.. I guess it is a start. I am glad i found this site, it has explained a lot.
Took me about a year to have it diagnosed. During that year I was in and out of hospital. Treated
For everything except B12. Even had lab work come back telling me that I had
H pylori. Dr’s treated me for that. But never associated,
Dizziness, fatigue, tingling, blurred vision, etc.
To anything outside of mild stokes (wrong). After trying
Hard to put me on anxiety meds ( I vowed not to take, to hide real
Problem). Finally neurologist just gets tired and runs several
Blood test that he had never run. When test comes back, he says nothing here
Explains ur symptoms….your b6 is low, but that won’t cause that.
Your b12 is within range 201, so ur good there. A week later
He calls me to say….see your internal med dr. U have low
Intrinsic values (body can’t absorb b12). My internal
Med Dr. gave me a big hug, told me she was happy we found it and we began
Treatments. Don’t miss shots, starting over puts u in remission.
In April, after being extreamly ill through the winter with ALL the symptoms mentioned, my Internist found my B12 was 39.6, started shots weekly, then monthly. After 3 months was 213, shots then once every 3 weeks, last week level was 295, shots again every week for 4 weeks then back to monthly, will check levels again in Jan. I have had essential tremor for many years in head but now effects body and hands. My Internist was very upset that Neurologist never did ANY blood work prior to diagnosis of ET and treating me with many different medications. I lost my job a year ago, now know my illness was a big factor in that. I am still very sick, still have all symptoms, wondering if I will ever get better. Note, other family members that have pernicious anemia, Mom, Grandma, cousins, all on shots. If only doctors had found this years ago!!
I have been lightheaded/dizzy for about 4 weeks now. My doctor thought it was anxiety and gave me some Xanax. I tried it, but it didn’t do a thing to me, might as well have been sugar pills. Went back, she took some blood, did a CBC and full metabolic panel – everything came back normal – sent me home.
I put on my Google Pants and found MANY symptoms of low B12 applied to me. I have the lightheadedness/dizziness, extreme fatigue, my typically normal periods have stopped completely for the last 3 months (I’m 35, not pregnant), hair loss, muscle crams and hand and feet tingling.
I wrote my dr and said I wanted a B12 test – she told me that it was very unlikely that I had low B12 because my other blood tests came back normal, but humored me and ordered the test. The result was 272.
I haven’t spoke to my Dr. yet, I just had the results emailed to me this morning – but I am willing to bet she will say I’m fine since I’m in the “normal range”. I know that’s on the lower end of the scale, but could this explain such pronounced symptoms? I wouldn’t think that I would be so dizzy and lightheaded all the time if I’m not down in the 100′s like many/most of you here in this forum.
Regardless, I would like to start taking some supplements – is it a good idea to start on my own or should I do this under the advisement of a doctor? I just hate having to wait to find a doctor who would be willing to treat me.
Hi Misty, my count was last 295 and my doctor said this is still much to low. My blood tests showed abnormal red blood cells and also most all other counts were very abnormal. It is one thing to get the B12 count higher, but I don’t absorb the B12 in my abdomen so they don’t feel taking pills, eating more of the “better foods” etc. will help. I get injections into a muscle to get the B12 into my body. I am told it may take years to get my level to a good place and maintain it. I still have all the symptoms and don’t feel well at all but I do a little each day, get plenty of rest, eat well, and try and pace myself. There are days when I hate this anemia but I know it will be with me for the rest of my life so…I make the best of it. If your doctor is not good about treating you, get another doctor! I may not feel well but I am better than I was 6 months ago. Don’t give up. Until you start treatment, of course educate yourself on the better foods to eat, listen to your body and rest when you can, and find ways to enjoy your life!! Good luck and write us anytime you need to vent or share.
Thank you Chris! It is nice to know that I’m really not crazy – my symptoms are real.
As expected, my doctor dismissed the result as normal since it fell within the range. I’ve made an appt for next week with a hematologist/internist and hopefully they’ll be more willing to consider the results and treatment.
Thanks again, I appreciate the feedback! I’m glad you’re feeling better with your treatments by the way.
Speak up for yourself and the treatment you need. It is one thing for the doctors to say you fall in the normal range but if you do research on the web you will find that levels below 400-500 can produce symptoms. It also has a lot to do with how your body is absorbing the B12. They also found that my calcium is a little elevated as well as the parathyroid hormone so that is being watched. My cousin discovered he had a very low B12 when his thyroid gland went bad. Keep on top of your health and the doctors. Let me know how you make out.
A few weeks ago I had tried to give blood and my iron was too low. This is the 2nd or 3rd time in the last 8 months. I was also feeling weak and light headed (during physical activity). I have been extremely fatigued in the last few months. I thought maybe it was just stress, but I had a blood test Tuesday and my doctor called me today saying my B12 level was too low ay 212. He said anything under 400 was need for concern. I start shots Monday…once a week for 8 weeks. I’m glad to read my doctor seems to be proactive and knowledgeable about how to treat B12 issues. Thanks and hope everyone gets theory levels up.
A few weeks ago I had tried to give blood and my iron was too low. This is the 2nd or 3rd time in the last 8 months. I was also feeling weak and light headed (during physical activity). I have been extremely fatigued in the last few months. I thought maybe it was just stress, but I had a blood test Tuesday and my doctor called me today saying my B12 level was too low ay 212. He said anything under 400 was need for concern. I start shots Monday…once a week for 8 weeks. I’m glad to read my doctor seems to be proactive and knowledgeable about how to treat B12 issues. Thanks and hope everyone gets their levels up.
Wow I am so happy I have found this site. My first question is how old is everyone around? For a few months now I have not been feeling “myself”. I frequently felt out of it and so many times I had the feeling of a “fog mind”. I would easily forget things. But this happen occasionally. It felt like I had dementia but it couldnt be because I am only 22 years old. My anxiety was abnormal and I would get so aggravated that I was so out of it. I was getting enough sleep, I wasnt stressed, and at a good time of my life. I couldnt understand why I was getting depressed at times or just down. Over the past 4months I would go to the doctor and was reported to have low blood pressure. I finally went back 2 weeks ago after not being able to handle this and my Doctor told me I had low b12. After doing some research I called back to get my score which was a 239. She told me to get b12 vitamins of 1000mcg. Should I be more concerned and should demand to get shots? I am only 22 years old and had nausea random times during the week, constant fatigue, blurred vision, hip and groin congestion, anxiety, some headaches but a pain that as if it feels like it was in my brain, constant “fog”.
Hi Christine and Lori, When they did my blood work, CBC,CMP, B12, Folic, etc. they also did special tests that showed my red blood cells were abnormally shaped, most all my levels were bad. These tests confirmed I have Pernicious Anemia, meaning I don’t absorb B12 from food or vitamans from stomach thru small intestine. Because of this I have no choice but to get injections. My Mom, Grandma, and cousins have this also. Use your computer and do research, educate yourself, and talk with your doctor about your concerns about vitamins vs B12 injections. I am now 55 but was told I probably had this for years for my count and symptoms to get so bad, was 39.6 when discovered. I am around 300 now but still have really bad symptoms. Time will tell. Good luck and I hope you start to feel better soon.
Hi I am 38,treating for Hypothyroid, 6 months back my B12 -292, my doctor prescribe me Nervigen but doc completely ignored my B12 report(top class Endocrine doctor),recently i got some anemia situation, I have very low memory and and lot of language drop. I Feel i need to go for B12 shoots or stick on high B12 food. how to check how my absorbing level of B12 on food, any test ?
Lori – you’re lucky your doctor is on top of it! I have an appt on Thursday with someone new, hopefully this one will do the trick.
Christine – I’m 35. My level is 272 and I have many of the same problems, so it’s not just age. One thing that I’m interested in is WHY is my level low? Am I not absorbing? There is an underlying reason and I want to know what it is – to me, that should determine the treatment. If you can’t absorb it (like the penicious anemia), pills won’t do any good.
I hope now that you and your dr determined the problem that you’ll start to see some relief with a treatment plan. Good luck
I am also glad I discovered this site. I had an MRI and a CAT scan one week. The next week was sent to a neurologist who set me up to have a spinal tap and a brain angiogram. He told me it was possible that I had MS. I did have most of the symptoms. When we got the results he told me B12 deficiency mimics MS. My B12 number was 165. Now I am wondering if I should get a second opinion or not? I am getting weekly B12 injections from family doctor. After one month we switch to monthly injections for an additional 6 months. I’m also on oral B12 and folic acid. My MRI of 4 1/2 years ago was almost identical. I’ve got the ringing in the ears, mild depression, severe migraines lasting 3 weeks, my mind is slow and memory loss. I am only 54 yrs old. Tired all of the time. I felt certain it was MS. I also hope to feel better but realize if I’ve had this deficit long enough to cause the 15 lesions on my brain and deterioation to my mylien sheath I’ve probably had B12 deficit for many, many years. Any suggestions? I am single and have an adult high needs daughter living with me. I’m very concerned because she depends on me 100%. THANK YOU. Ginger
I forgot to mention that my balance is off. I am unable to walk heel to toe without almost falling over. I’ve also had severe pain in my shoulder blades. I do not have a history of migraines as I’ve only had them 3 times in my lifetime. My ears ring 24/7 and have for ohh about 7 years maybe.
Welcome Ginger, It sounds like we are about the same age and symptoms. I have not had MRI, CAT scan or spinal tap but sure have had a lot of blood work. I was told it would take a long time to get my levels up and then the trick is to maintain them. I still have bad symptoms. Just had a very through eye exam today, my vision has gotten very blurry last few months, all is OK, they said I need a check-up once a year or more often if sympltoms indicate it. My vision did get much worse so need new lenses. The B12 problem and the injections can do damage to the optic nerve and cause blurry vision. I guess the best advice is we know our bodies and if something is off, speak up. Good luck!
Chris, It was the blood work that did determine my B12 problem. They were doing the other testing to find out why I felt so awful; thinking I had multiple sclerosis. Thank God it isn’t MS. There is no telling how long I’ve had a deficit of the B12. Thank you for your response. You are correct; we know our bodies. When something is off we are the first to know and be capable of taking action. I am sorry your have vision issues. I have yet to experience that. My biggest issue is the lesions on my brain, deterioration of the tissue that protects my nerve ending in my brain, balance issues and pain. I will remain on the maintenance program my doctor has diagnosed. Everyone hang in there. Without HOPE what do we have?
I am 29 yrs old. I had challenging time for nearly 4 months, I reside in India. I visit US on official purpose . This year was quite challenging I had my division closed down, I was moved to new division in the company. After this started all my problems. I am quite physically active guy. I started to get pain in the lower back to begin with , then it spread to shoulder blades – rib pain – limb pains and severe headaches. I made a few visits to a ortho doc who was diagnosing for 1 month on weekly basis , thinking it was myofacial pain orderly uric acid tests, thryo tests ,ultrasound on all organs, every thing came normal. Since this doctor was out of my town. I had to take frequent leaves. My employer thought I was fooling around thinking I disliked his divison. I could not continue with the doctor, looked for a local ortho he diagonised me with Fibromyalgia, and advised me physiotheraphy. I continued this , the conditions became worst.I got these problems. I was not able to complete tasks on time, since this caused cognitive problems. Already in problem with manager over taking sick leaves. I was fired . Then I went to neurologist he said (without any tests) it was due to depression with my job loss and things will get better once I land in one more job.I got eye pains , facial muscle pain, went to eye doc, everything was normal.
I had all the time in the world to see whats going on with my body. After doing extensive research on fibromyalgia (cause unknown treatment unknown),thinking sometimes, its psychosomatic as per different research papers. I came to know it mimics lyme disease, and able to connect the dots of my past .last I visited US I was in Austin , stayed in a hotel who’s backyard had a deer park. I got insect bite quite big one during my sleep, I did not notice what bit me. Next morning I found big rash, few days of fever, I was aware of lyme disease at the point. It was eight months after returning to india, i got these problems. I went to Internal medicine doctor to find if it is lyme, luckily she was someone who has returned from US, and has treated lyme patients. I tested negative for lyme (not sure if the lab results are correct, and this test is quite tricky).
Then my new Internal medicine doctor (proved lucky for me she did not fully believe the psychosomatic aspect of it ) decided to do a battery of blood tests. Found out Vitamin B12 deficiency and Vitamin D, my readings were 88 . Then she ordered for endoscope to test for Helictobacter pylori , which causes vitamin b12 not to be absorbed by the body. I tested positive for this. So oral supplements wont work for me, I had neurobions hot every day for week , then weekly once for 2 months and on antibiotics to get rid of bacteria.Feel a little better, but some random days I am fatigued not able to concentrate and as usual random pain at different parts. Looking forward to see if this gets cured.
I have still my own doubts if this was indeed lyme, that was not detected properly.
With this experience of mine, got a few positive thoughts, Doctors can help u but human body is a mysterious machine with hidden troubles, that are common for many diseases out there. So please don’t blame the doctor. Believe in yourself doctor is not God, sometimes they might not be able to find out. If you feel something is wrong dont shy away from testing if it is true, for you alone (apart from God) knows , the true feelings of ur body. Some people may bullshit that its all in the Mind.
And last but not the least, I have to thank the developers of the Internet , who have empowered us ,no matter which part of the world, with connectivity and knowledge that can be shared.
I went to the hemotologist today and she was livid that my original doctor dismissed my b12 numbers and said that I definitely need therapy. She is having me do daily injections for 3 days, then once weekly for 4 weeks hen monthly. She took 9(!!) vials of blood to check for various issues, thyroid, celiac disease, intrinsic factor and other stuff. Hopefully we’ll have some answers in a week. She also noticed a heart murmur and given my mother’s history (she had calcification of her aortic valve and had to have it replaced), she is ordering an echocardiogram to check out my heart’s health.
So – I’m glad she’s taking me seriously and starting me on therapy, I’m so so so relieved. For those of you that started with the injections, when did you start to notice a difference? I know it takes time to build it back up, but just curious your experience of noticing improvement.
I go back next Friday to discuss the blood/heart testing. Thanks for being here!
Missy,I am so happy for you finding a doctor that is taking this seriously. I started on weekly shots for 4 weeks, then monthly but my levels are coming up very slowly,so back on weekly another 4 weeks than monthly, will recheck levels in Jan. I started to notice improvement fairly soon but at a very, very slow pace. The first 3 months the doctor wanted me to rest and not do anything that was not necessary. I still have most of the symptoms, not as bad, but not nearly what I was hoping for but keep in mind my level was 39.6, and now 6 months later I am at 295. I hope the doctor is running a test for calcium levels as well as parathyroid hormones, they did on me and mine were a little elevated so will be rechecked in Jan. also. With your Mom’s history of calcification you want to be sure you are not having to much calcium in your blood. I look forward to hearing how you make out next week. Good luck and keep us posted and know I am thinking about you!
Hello,
I have b12 deficiency my level is 135. The doctor prescribed 1000mg tabs every day forever. The numbness, tingling in the hands, tired all the time etc. I don’t know if anyone else has experienced back issues. I have never experienced any back pain in my life, but now I have pain in the lower back down both legs, have trouble getting up, or sitting down(even turning in the bed) I am wondering if this is related to the deficiency? I have always been a very active person, but the back issue is frustrating.
Thanks Chris, you are very sweet and so caring. It’s nice to have someone to talk to that understands.
Yep, the dr mentioned the calcium testing and thyroid testing as well since my mother also had her thyroid removed later in her life – she was a mess medically. My mom passed away a few years ago and she kept alot of her medical issues to herself as kind of a protection for her kids – it kind of sucks in situations like this though, my dr was hoping for more info on my mom’s medical history to consider different issues with me… but I really only know things like she had her thyroid removed, but I don’t know the reason why.
Anyway – sorry about the bunny trail, my mom had alot of issues, I told her what I knew and I think that’s why she’s running all the tests she’s running like the thyroid/calcium, cardiogram etc…. I am happy to have found this dr, she is thorough and I have a 3 year old little girl who needs me (healthy) here at home.
Thank you for your experience Chris. I can’t even begin to imagine how bad you must have felt – and still feel – at that level. I am happy that your numbers are rising and hope they continue to do so. This B12 stuff is amazing! If only it worked faster, huh. Thanks again.
Hi Everyone
Thank goodness I have found this site!!
I have been feeling so tired and unwell for months and last November I went to the Doctor because my left foot started to go numb. She told me to lose some weight and change my footwear. She recommended Fitflops which have actually helped support my feet. I have been struggling for nearly a year and I started to get periodic pain in my feet which meant that I could not walk. I went to see another doctor about a month ago and he prescribed anti inflam tablets. He also told me to do a fasting blood test. I had blood taken on the Monday and on the Tuesday my doctor rang me and said to go and see her which I did. She said my B12 was low and so was my folic acid. She gave me a B12 injection and said I should have one every month and am on 5mg folic acid every day.
After a couple of weeks I just felt no better so I arranged to see another doctor at the practice. He immediately asked me if I was having my 2 injections per week!!…I said that my doctor had said one a month. He said my B12 level is 147 so I am on 2 a week and he is now my doctor. I am having more bloods done this week to see how the level is but from reading all the posts I think I should be asking to see a neurologist as my right foot is going numb now and I find it difficult to walk, and I lose my balance.
It is very frustrating being so tired all the time and I have always been so active. I am 50 years old.
My new doctor said that a blood test should have been done a year ago when I presented with a numb foot. I am trying to be optimistic but I don’t think I will get the feeling back in my feet. That is a bit scary.
It is good to know that there are others that I can talk to. It is difficult to make people understand how debilitating this problem is.
I will keep in touch with this site and if I can help or share any information I will.
Debbie x
After years of a being very tired, extremely bad tempered, suffering appalling short term memory and unable to cope with life I finally went to see my doctor. I had delayed on my annual health check for almost nine months. A blood test revealed my level was only 95! The practice nurse at my local surgery on receiving the results called me saying I was to get to the surgery immediately. On arrival she said she had received my blood results and that my B12 level of 95 had put me in a perilous position! I received the first of a series of injections over a nine month period and my level is now around 435. Vitamin B12 is responsible for oxyginating the red blood cells. This happens in the gut via an agent called intrinsic factor. If the factor is missing and it could be, then eating the right food or taking B12 supplements will not work. No intrinsic factor means you will never get B12 to do its job…The bottom line you can die! You need to get the injections straight away and whats more you may need maintenance injections for the rest of your life. Early symptoms of low B12 can be itchy tongue causing one to ruminate (you see elderly people doing this sometimes continually moving the mouth as if chewing a sweet or lolly) or itchy fingers especially on a the wedding finger. One also may suffer from short term memory problems which infuriates people who live with you or you work with. Itchiness is caused by the nervous system beginning to shut down. Failure to remedy a low B12 can cause blindness, a loss of a limb or in the worst case scenario death. Doctors are beginning to realize this condition is more common that originally thought. If anyone is suffering from depression then the first thing to test for is low B12! doctors who prescribe anti-depressants may be off the mark. After 9 months of receiving B12 I feel absolutely great, I now have 3 monthly maintenance injections and that seems to be working for me. If anyone wants to contact me via email about my experience and to get my thoughts on this very serious but easily remedied condition then please do so, my address is bernarddlinsley@gmail.com
I was diagnosed with P.A in April of 07 (due to lack of Intrinsic Factor) right after my mother passed away. I was hospitalized for 3 days and recieved 3 bags of packed red blood cells. Then I was on 2ml I.M 1x a week for the first 6months since then went to 1.5ml I.M. once a month, which I am still currently on HOWEVER I have noticed that sometimes my . . I can tell that my B12 levels have dropped quite quickly ( over a matter or several days) even if I have recently had my I.M I am not sure what makes my levels drop so quickly . . . any ideas.? ? ?
My test results all came back normal. No Pernicious Anemia, no thyroid problems, calcium was fine – all of it. No reason whatsoever for the deficiency. On one hand, I’m glad there’s nothing, on the other, I’m sad there isn’t an explanation.
I’ve been taking the shots for about a month now. 3 daily then weekly…. I was feeling okay, but the last couple days have been so so so rough. I am SO dizzy. Severe headaches, I just can’t hardly function. Does this sound normal? I know some said they were worse before they got better… I’m beginning to wonder if my dizziness is from something else, not the B12. I’m considering going to the hospital today… I am at the end of my rope.
Hi Missy, Sorry you are still not feeling well. My concern is your brain. Have they done an MRI with contrast? They would be looking for growths, blood flow problems, nerve damage etc. My Mom had these symptoms and had a brain tumor, non-cancer, was removed and has lived a normal life (this was 30 years ago!). Even though my B12 has risen it was only 295 a month ago. I was back on weekly shots and now monthly. It is a catch22, I feel a little better but suffer terribly from the shots, headaches, dizzy, hard to function, aches, flu-like. Sound familiar?? I know it is hard, but try and stay calm, address the headaches, and if possible kick back and rest. I will be praying for you. Let us know how you make out. Once I got off the weekly shots a lot of these symptoms went away! Good luck. Chris
Hi Jann, Welcome!! I can always tell when my B12 level is dropping and yes, within a matter of days. It appears I have had the PT for some time and a lot of the symptoms have stayed with me. I have learned to pace myself and my days, get plenty of rest when my body save I need it. I feel so bad hearing that others get to feeling so bad, been there. The best advice I can give everyone is to listen to your body. You will know when you are due for another shot, when you need to rest, or if something else is going on. Good luck!
Welcome Debbie, I also suffered the numbness all the way up to mid-thigh. It is now at mid-calf. Good luck with your treatment and please keep us up to date with how you are making out. We all care about each other. Hi to you also, Bernard. It sounds like you have, like me, researched and educated yourself about this condition. I have been treated with the injections, was told pills were not an option. Glad to hear you feel so good, keep on sharing with us.
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!!!
I posted a few weeks ago. I am 54 years of age. My health has been excellent until recently. If you have symptoms that don’t make sense please make sure your physician runs some tests. I have probably been B12 deficient for a very long time; most likely at least 16 years. Migraines lasting 2 1/2 weeks brought on a cat scan, followed by an MRI, a brain angiogram and a lumbar puncture. My neurologist thought I had Multiple Sclerosis. My diagnosis ended up being B 12 deficiency with my number at 160. I have 15 lesions on my brain and the fatty tissue that protects my brain is showingh major deterioration. The deterioration and lesions are most likely irreversible. Symptoms? They began in 1999 and were never researched to my satisfaction. My symptoms were severe muscle pain in my shoulder; pain so severe I would throw up, tingling feeling on the back of my thigh; this was a recurring symptom, anemia, anxiety, migraines 4 1/2 years ago and again just recently.
My physican at the time ordered an MRI 4 1/2 yrs ago. I asked his office to send a copy to my neurologist. My MRI showed the lesions and the deterioration back then. I was never told the results of the MRI 4 1/2 yrs ago.. If the symptoms had been followed up on I could have begum treatment 4 1/2 years ago.
My balance is off, my memory and thinking skills are suffering, I stay exhausted and my shoulder pain is now in both shoulders and very severe. I was also diagnosed with anxiety and depression within the past 4 1/2 years. I’ve also been diagnosed with tinnitus (ringing in the ears). These are all symptoms of MS and B 12 deficiency.
I had weekly B 12 injections for a month. Now I receive monthly injections for 6 additional months. I am only in my 2nd month of treatment. Oral B 12 and folic acid is also part of my regimine. We will do another Cat scan at the end of 7 months to see if my brain has improved at all.
My daughter (24) is a high needs adult so you can imagine my despair over these health issues isn’t just about me; I am totally responsible for her also. She is bipolar I and it is a very difficult illness that has no cure and lasts a lifetime.
I urge you to realize the importance of doing your research, being prepared with questions for your physician. I am a problem solver by nature and a researcher.
Best wishes to everyone and a happy Thanksgiving. Keep HOPE alive!
Realized last night it was time for my B12 shot. It is bad enough when my feet, legs, and hands get the numb/tingling all the time but when it feels like someone is sticking me with long needles I know my levels are dropping. Ginger, I have been told that the problems from my low B12 levels may be permanent also which does not make me happy but I just keep telling myself it could be a lot worse. I pace myself doing things on good days and resting on not so good days. Sure hope you are feeling better in the near future.
I am 56 was diaognosed this year and currently having b12 injections once a month but still does not feel enough still feel extremely tired and unwell all the time. I also was diagnosed with high blood pressure and have to take meds for this. I feel really annoyed after reading some of these posts that my doctor has not explained that this is a seriouse condition.
chris, just found out that i have low b12. 182 range. i also have tinnitus for about 5 years, numb/tingling especially at night. i am 59 years old and in good shape that goes to the gym 4 times a week. for the last 5 years went to the doctor for number of reason for not feeling right. finally i think the doctor just started to realize somedthing just isn’t right. had many test done. going to see the doctor next week. first time since finding out about low b12.
I also suffered with symptoms for at least 5 years. Doctor kept running blood test for thyroid, which was normal. When my organs started to show signs of severe distress, labs done for B12, count was 38.6!! Injections, total rest for 3 months, has been 8 months now and still have most of the symptoms, some a little better. One of my doctors, who has since retired, would say to me, your count is up to 295 now, you should be fine. She can’t understand how bad I still am. The key is to find a doctor that really knows and understands how this condition effects us. Having a higher count does NOT mean it is being absorbed and used in our bodies properly! My Grandma had this and used to need blood transfusions every once-in-a-while. She even lost her vision at one point. If you have not done so, make sure you eye doctor knows you have this and that they moniter your eyes, optic nerves. This disorder can cause loss of oxigen to all organs. Some days my brain is mush. We all need to be proactive about this condition and be certain our health care providers are taking the best care of us.
For the past months I’ve been fatigued, having brain fog/memory loss and my left leg and arm felt kind of weird not really numb -cant really describe it. Went to the Doctor who told me my memory loss/ fog could be due to stress or lack of sleep. I’m not convinced that’s the reason. Anyway,he did blood work and here are the results from my cbc: WBC 4.6, RBC 4.27, Hemoglobin 12.1, Hematocrit 36.4, MCV 85.4, MCH 28.5, MCHC 33.3 , and my RDW is 17.7 which is high. Doctor told me everything is normal but my body is telling me different. I’m still experiencing headaches,slight body tremors, think I have a slight case of vertigo( when car or bus moves my head. Feels like its also moving). I don’t know what to do. Does a high RDW mean I’m B12 deficient? Helpppp!!
Hi Gailita, Your counts are in the normal range, however, with the symptoms you have a B12 blood test is in order. Tell the doctor you want it run, now! If he does not think it is needed get a new doctor. I don’t believe the symptoms you have described are from lack of sleep/stress. Every symptom you describe, I had and still have. Let us know when you get results of a B12 test! Good luck.
hya all, well firstly wawi never knew so many people suffered and about all of the symptoms! thank you all for the information and your own experiances. im 23 and am suffering with low b12 – its 173 also low slightly low iron and low folic acid.
i only found out about this when a docotor advised for me to have a b12 test done along with my iron and folic acid whilst i was pregnant as i have a history with low iron from my previous pregnancy whos know 2 and a half my other being only now 5months. when i delieverd my eldest from an episode of nearly fainting in the shower hours after having given birth they tested me and found my iron was 6.2 apparently healthy level for a woman is 14! 3bags of blood later pushed me up to 8.6 and then a lovly course of tablets for a few months took me to 10.3 should i of been tested then for b12 i wonder! anyway my b12 results came back low whilst pregnant this time around 6months into my pregnancy had 3shots within 3weeks and then i was left no further tests as the doctor believed it was surfficent enough for me at the time. since having had my baby i had not been seen for further tests so i put myself forward requesting them and everything is low again but only had one shot evanthough its 173 as they want me to go back to my doctor in cyprus and seek further advice – i am a birtish citizen just out there working and currently home visiting – had the shot a month ago now and i dont feel any different. ive always put it down to it just being me the way i am always dizzy spells being tired joke about my useles memory but i will defiantely be pushing for further investigation from reading all of your experiances above! thank you all again so much and i will be keeping an eye on here to find out more.
forgot to add also loosing my hair!!!this is highly distessing for me people all said it because of having had a baby but the amounts im loosing is just not normal i lose firstly when i shower but not the normal amount before i never evan used to note what id loose in the shower but now i cant help but notice my hands get tangled in it, then when i brush my hair before i start blow drying and then finally once i have finished blwo drying!!!! its awful!also evan wake up with hair on my pillow in my bed!
I was diagnosed with pernicious anemia 1 1/2 years ago. My levels were down to 124 and I couldn’t get off of my couch. It took everything I had to make it through the work day. I was having symptoms of extreme fatigue for about a year, and began having memory problems and bladder control problems for 6the months prior to diagnosis. The scary thing was that my doctor kept insisting that I was iron deficient only, and that I should eat more red meat, despite a year of complaints of this fatigue. It wasn’t until I mentioned memory problems that he thought to test my B 12 levels. It is scary to remember this time, now realizing that I was near death. Not only is it important to get a diagnosis, but also the reason for the low B12. If you lack intrinsic factor, or have anti-parietal cells, you will not be able to absorb the oral supplements well enough to correct the problem.I require B12 injections for the rest of my life. I am thankful that these injections are available, as when they were not, this disorder was fatal. I only wish that my doctor would have tested me sooner, before my levels got so low. I continue to have memory issues, despite a B12 level of 800 at my last bloowork check…not sure if this will improve…please do not be afraid to be proactive for yourself, and if your doctor doesn’t have the answer, go elsewhere! Sometimes a fresh set of eyes can not only find the problem, but can also save your life. Be well!
I went into the doctor this week for numbness and tingling in my left arm and he thought I had pulled a muscle, but tested my thyroid and B-12 levels just to be sure. I got a call today (Friday) that my B12 level was 31. I am suppose to go in Monday to start weekly B-12 shots, but I don’t know what questions to ask or if I should be worried about underlying conditions. I have been researching online and I am getting scared. I am also kind of worried that I have to wait three days after being told my level was so low to start the shots. Will it be okay to start the shots Monday?
My father have 169 count of B-12 and he has started his treatment before 2 months and he had took 7 injections of B-12 and he is taking pills for the same and now doctor told us to take one injection per month. but still he is feeling stiff body and he is also having ulcer in mouth and at some time of the day he is also feeling pain in ear.
please suggest me should i we continue with the treatment or consult neurophysician?
in so many post i read about the Neurophysician so if possible explain is there any specific role of Neurophysician to overcome the deficiency of b12
Finally got another shot today. This past week I have been exhausted, no energy, sleeping a lot. I don’t know about everyone else, but I sure can tell when my levels are going down. Like usual, now I have a nasty headache from the shot and will feel like **** the next few days but then I do feel a bit better for a couple of weeks. Hope everyone has a Happy Holiday and New Year!
I have had to take B12 injections every 2 weeks now for about 4 years now. I have never had it go higher than 242. Makes me a little worried but I have been tested for everything. I am not anemic in any way, I dont have intrinsic blocking factor, any of that. Its weird. But my question is when I get the shot within 5 minutes my feet, hands and like the upper part of my stomach start to tingle a little bit for about 15 minutes. Sometimes even my tongue. Nothing scary just noticeably weird. When I ask Dr’s about it they look at me like I am crazy. Does anybody have this?
I was diagnosed with low B12 by my thyroid dr. I had a level of 250 last year. I still have major pain in my neck/back, numbness in hands and feet, I sleep 10 hours a night, low energy, head aches, blurred vision, cant concentrate, increased ADD symptoms, depression, hair loss… I normally have lots of energy, 20/20 vision, Im a super happy person… I was perscribed the B12 shots, but only one round, never checked on my ending level, and never took B12 after. I now have all the same symptoms even though I started taking B12 liquid a while ago. Does this liquid help? I also found out that there are some veggies said to “have” B12 but they actually block B12. Aparently you can only get B12 from meet, fish, liver, eggs… Alcohol is actually really bad because the next day after drinking you body burns more B12 than normal to heal itself. Smoking can also do this too. I currently stopped both drinking and smoking hopefully it’ll help.
Hi Rach, If your body is not absorbing the B12 the pills/liquid will do no good. I know someone who was treated with shots & when level was up, he was switched to pills & liquid under tongue. His levels fell again & is now back on shots every two weeks. I also do not absorb B12 & have been told I will need shots all my life. I will have new blood levels done mid Jan. Three months ago I was around 220 but still have all the symptoms, just not nearly as bad as when my level was 38.9! When I get the shot I notice a metalic taste and I get sick for about 4-5 days, stomach ache, intestines, runs, terrible headaches, mustle aches…but then I feel (just) OK for a couple of weeks. Once I am 3 weeks out from shot I can feel my levels fall because symptoms get a lot worse. I also sleep 10 hours a night and if I do to much in a day I will sleep up to 12 hours that night. Exhaustion is a part of my life, I just except it and rest during the day with a nap if need be. Except for low B12 I am not enemic. Not at all happy about this but at least I am alive and enjoying my life around not feeling well. Good luck, hope you all feel better.
HI, I JUST READ ALL BLOGS ABOUT VIT B12 AND WAS IMPRESSED HOW MANY PEOPLE HAD PROBLEMS WITH VIT B12! MY STORY ALWOST THE SAME. I RETIRED 2 YEARS AGO AFTER I WAS DIAGNOSED WITH OSTEOPOROSIS AND HAD SEVERAL FRACTURES. I WAS A PSYCHIATRIST FOR MANY YEARS BUT DID NOT PLAN TO RETIRED YET.
MY MOTHER HAD SEVER PERNICIOUS ANEMIA LATE IN HER LIFE.HER HEMOGLOBIN WAS AS LOW AS 7. SHE HAD NUEROPATHY OF HER FEET,LOSS OF MEMORY AND PAIN IN HER MOUTH. IT WAS NOT CLEAR WHEN SHE DEVELOPED FIRST SYMPTOMS. IT IS KNOWN THAT PA IS SILENT KILLER. SHE WAS TREATED WITH INJECTABLE VIT B12. SHE DIED NOT FROM PA BUT FROM ATRIA FIBRILLATION IN AGE OF 89. I WAS ONLY CHILD AND SHE HAD ME IN AGE 37. FOR MANY YEARS I TRIED TO TO GET INFORMATION IF PA IS GENETICLY TRANSMITTED, BUT I WAS NOT ABLE TO DO IT. DOCTORS DID NOT KNOW!!! I THINK I GOT EVERYTHING FROM MY MOTHER: HYPERTESION, ATRIL FIBRILLATION AND FINALY LOW LEVEL OF VIT B12. ABOUT 17 YEARS AGO I HAD VIT12 CHECHED AND IT WAS 800. I TRIED TO GET LEVEL AFTER THAT ABOUT 8 YEARS AGO BUT DR SAID THAT I HAVE TO HAVE DS OF PA, OTHERWISE INSURANS WILL NOT PAY FOR TEST. DID YOU HEAR ANYTHING LIKE THAT? I DID NOT HAVE PRIMARY DR FOR MANY YEARS, JUST CARDIOLOGIST AND GI DOCTOR. FOR LAST 2 YEARS I STARTED FEELING TIRED ,HAD EPISODS OF PAIN IN MUSCLES AND BONES. MY MEMORY AND CONCENTRATION BECAME WORSE, I LOST A LOT OF HEAR. I DEVELOPED “ALLERGY” AND HAD SYMPTOMS SINCE FEB. LAST YEAR AND I STILL HAVE THEM.IN DEC.LAST YEAR I FINALLY FOUND PRIMARY DOCTOR. SHE ORDER COMPLETE BLOOD WORK AND IT TURNED OUT THAT I HAD VERY HIGH TSH, AND VIT B12 – 216. NEXT TEST IN 10 DAYS SHOWED THAT MY TSH WAS NORMAL BUT FREE T4 WAS HIGH!!!!! AND MY VIT12 WAS 180.SHE RECOMMENDED TO DO VIT B12 INJECTION ONCE A WEEK. BUT IT WAS ABSOLUTELY WRONG! I KNOW THAT IF YOU HAVE SO LOW LEVEL YOU HAVE TO START INJECTIONS EVERY DAY FOR 7-10 DAYS, TNEN TWICE A WEEK FOR A FEW WEEKS AND THEN LEVEL SHOULD BE REPEATED. SO FAR I WILL FINISH WITH EVERY DAY INJECTION IN THE END OF THIS WEEK. I WILL SEE DOCTOR ON FRIDAY AND SHE WILL ORDER TEST FOR TSH AND PROBOBLY OTHERS. I WILL ASK HER TO REPEAT VIT B12 AGAIN.
NOW, I DONT HAVE ANY IDEA IF MY EPISODIC ATRIAL FIBRILLATION CAN BE CAUSED BY LOW VIT B12 LEVEL. I DID NOT FIND ANY DATA ON IT. I HAVE TO FIND OUT.
I KNOW THAT IN JAPAN DOCTORS WILL START VIT B12 INJECTIONS IF VIT B12 IS 400. IF YOU HAVE MALABSORPION OF VIT B 12 , FOOD IS NO HELP AT ALL. AND THE FINAL THOUGHT : WHY NOONE MENTIONED SCHILLING TEST FOR DIAGNOSIS OF PA.
SORRY FOR MY MISSPELLINS AND OTHER MISTAKS. I WILL CONTINUE TO GIVE MORE INFORMATION ON MY TESTS. THANK YOU VERY MUCH.ELLA.
Hi everyone,
Wow I never knew that vitamin B12 deficiency was so serious. I took it so lightly.
I’m currently 23 years old. In 2008 I was diagnosed with B12 deficiency. I had to take a shot once a month if remember correctly. Then I stopped maybe after like 4-6 shots. Then for years I was not tested for it.
Last year when I went to India, I decided to get my blood checked. My levels came to be low, it was 92 pg/ml. The doctor there told me this was very low, and immediately gave an injection. This was last year in July. Since then I’ve not had another shot.
This explains the tiredness and fatigue I’ve been experiencing for years now. The worst thing is that I cannot focus on anything for long, especially my studuies. My concentration level is low. This does not help, I’m a Masters student, and I need all the energy to study. I get mood swings often as well now. My legs and arms ache at times. More recently I have also experienced lower back pain with severe tingling sensations. For the past week or so my left eye has also been twitching like never before. Non stop!
I have an appointment booked for tomorrow with my doctor. Will take my reports from India. Cannot wait for another blood test and reports to come by.
I’m really glad to found this page, I underestimated the effects of B12 deficiency.
Where do you live? Where is <200 the level that you are deficient?
Here in Canada it's 150. I had a test 1 year ago, and all they told me was that I was fine. I went to the doctor today to ask for last years numbers, and it was 170!!! No wonder I was getting such horrible nerve shocks, numbness in my body, depression and fatigue before I started taking my B12 suppelement!! I swear, 150 is WAY too low if I'm getting permanent nerve damage for being 'in range'.
Rae,
I don’t care where you live, if your levels are below 400 you will have symptoms and should be treated for B12 deficiency. I am in the United States and unfortunately most doctors here consider anything under 200 to be deficient and many don’t take B12 deficiency very seriously. I was fortunate enough to keep searching until I found doctors that understand how devistating this condition can be. Both my primary doctor and my neurologist agree that B12 deficiency starts when levels fall below 400. Ideally a normal level is in the 800-1000 range. At a level of 170 I would be demanding shots. There are many different shot schedules your doctor may recommend, I would make sure they gave me a shot a week for at least 6-8 weeks. Then at least once a month after that until they figure out why you are deficient. Good luck with your recovery!
I had physical and labs this past week. All labs are finally normal, B12 in the low 400′s…only took 9 months to get it up there from a low of 38.9! Doctor said to continue injections every three to four weeks and will check level in 6 months. I still have a lot of symptoms and know when I need another shot because I can feel the level dropping. Was told over time some symptoms may get better but since mine was so low and seams I had it for years, symptoms may be permanant. At least it is good to know I now have normal shapped red blood cells that are again getting oxygen to my organs. Hope everyone has a good New Year.
Hi everyone! I am so glad I found this website. I’m 33 and have had many of the minor symptoms of low b12 since high school…however this Oct (2011) I started to experience tingling in my hands and feet as well as heart palpatations. I went to the nurse practitioner and she did an EKG as well as sent me for lab work. The lab work was mainly to check my thyroid as well as to check for blood clots (I was a “light” smoker and on birth control). At that time I had asked to be checked for b12 but wasn’t. The results all came back negative with the exception of the d-dimer (blood clot test). I tested positive for high risk of blood clots. At that time I told her I was still experiencing the tingling only it was no longer confinded to my hands and feet. It was now all over (my head, my face, my chest…basically my entire body). Sometime it would last for hours…sometimes it would last for days. She said she thought it was due to stress and anxiety (panic disorder) and asked if I wanted a prescription for Xanax. I don’t really like taking medicine unless it’s really needed…much less taking something that can be highly habit forming. I asked if she’d give me a lab test for b12…which she finally did. (this was now December 2011). Along with that test I was also tested for anemia and also had my ferritin levels checked. The nurse called the next day (this past Friday) to say that my level was 139 (she didn’t seem terribly worried by this) and said she wanted me to come in early this next week (Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday) and they were going to give me an injection monthly for 3 months. From all the research I have done (extensively)it seems like people with fairly low levels are getting daily injections…or weekly injections…but not monthly injections. My question is…I’d like to get a second option…with more of a specialist. Can anyone recommend what kind of specialist I might want to see?? My tingling is now constant all over my whole body. My enormous fatigue and depression persist even though I’m on medicine (both of those I’ve had since high school). I have also had pretty severe GERD since middle school so I’m assuming that’s the culprit behind me not properly absorbing b12.
Any help with advice on a specialized medical doctor is VERY greatly appreciated. I can’t take much more of this.
Thanks everyone!!
Hi Sarah,
A B12 level of 139 is definitely a cause for alarm. The tingling you are experiencing may be neuropathy and is not to be taken lightly. I would definitely seek another opinion. Unfortunately it can be hard to find a doctor that realizes the severity of B12 deficiency, so don’t be afraid to keep looking until you find the right doctor. I am not a doctor, but I would recommend getting at least a shot a week for 6-8 weeks. If you find a doctor that does more than that, even better. Because you are experiencing tingling that has gotten more severe you may also want to see a neurologist. The sooner you can get your B12 levels up, the better. It will take a long time for your body to start to heal and the longer you wait, the more likely the damage will be permanent.
Thanks for visiting my blog, I’m glad it was helpful to you!
Good luck with your treatment.
Chris,
Congratulations on getting your levels up! While you may have permanent damage, don’t give up on your recovery yet. It took me a full two years of shots every other week to feel as good as I do now. Hopefully you have just started to heal and will continue to feel better every day.
Happy New Year!!!
Ally,
I have B12 deficiency which is severe. Your symptoms sound similar to mine. I was spacey, light headed, forgetful, and then sudden weakness that would leave as suddenly. I’m a 60 year old dancer. I dance 3 X’s a week so usually am strong and healthy. Suddenly dance became difficult. Waking up with headaches. Went to dance class 2 1/2 weeks ago. Couldn’t do it. Came home, had to sleep and woke up paralyzed. I could stand, but my legs were like wooden pegs. I slept for 2 days. Very foggy. I ended up in the hospital as my doc was very concerned. MRI’s and nerve conduction test. Neurologist said my reflex responses were hyper and my muscle tone not there. B12 was tested…. bingo. Now I give myself 3ml injections of B12 every day. I’ll be tested in a month to see where my levels are. I have most of my legs back, but I still have a limp. I can’t work yet. Can’t stay with it. I work for an hour and suddenly, I feel like a big weight is sitting on me, my heart pounds, I’m breathless and have no choice but to lay down yet again. I have a good day here and there. I’m hoping it increases. Though iron deficiency probably feels similar, you sound like you have B12 deficiency. I’m a midwife and have some understanding of deficiencies. Your red blood cells are not likely to be forming properly. Once you have enough B12 in you, they will start to heal. I’m looking at this site as I’m wondering what other people’s experiences of how long recovery is. Ten years ago, I got a cardiac work up as they thought this was my heart. My heart was perfect. Shortly after, I was sent to a sleep disorder to see if I was having seizures. They said, nope, no seizures, but something is happening. It was all electrical… burning in my thighs.. severe pain… lightening in my head… chills, sweats.. you name it. The central nervous system can create a lot of symptoms when it’s dysfunctional.
Oh my goodness, where do I start? In Sept. 2010, I began seeing a neurologist due to many symptoms including gait problems; cognitive inabilities; bladder control problems; weakness in my legs; and more. I was convinced I had a brain tumor! Well, no brain tumor, but MRI did show lesions on my brain scan, so after many other neuro tests, my neurologist started treating me for MS with Avonex. In June, this neurologist just up and left his practice with no notice to his patients. The next neurologist I saw didnt agree with an MS dx. He noticed back in Sept 2010 that my B12 level was 177. He stopped Avonex and started B12 injections weekly x one month then monthly x 6 months. In the meantime, he repeated my MRI’s; MRA’s and they hadn’t changed. My B12 was tested in Aug 2011 with a level of 198; despite all of the injections. Results from my EMG showed significant axonal sensory poly neuropathy. I have also had 2 colonoscopies, a pill cam scan to look at my small bowel, and a scope of my esophagus and stomach in hopes of finding the etiology of my B12 deficiency. To date, no one has been able to give me the answer to that. My neurologist gave me a rx for Vicodin three times per day. I disagreed. I need to be focused, not high. I was frustrated with that Neuro Office. In December, I went for a second opinion to a new neurologist. Basically, he believes all of my problems were due to a severe B12 deficiency. He explained that the excruciating pain I now have in my legs and mid back are degenerative and may not get better. He did say, granting we can get my B12 up, that the pain shouldn’t get any worse. He has given me 4 injections since December and my level is now 213; still too low for him. I will see him again next week for another double injection. I remain hopeful I will begin to start feeling better soon. It’s so important to question EVERYTHING your doctors order and do your OWN research. If I had known about B12 def. in Sept 2010, I could have started treatment then, instead of trusting my doctor to treat me for MS. Does anyone know if it’s common to get neuropathy when you have a B12 def? I started taking neurontin and it seems to be helping although I am finding myself really crabby. Hope this side effect goes away soon. Thanks for this blog, it helped just to be able to vent (sorry if it was TMI!) Your thoughts and comments are welcomed!
The neuropathy can be from B12 def. I have it still in my feet and legs but not in my hands anymore. It took 9 months to bring my level from 38.9 to 400. I did two rounds of weekly shots for a month, then every other week, now every three weeks. Once I get to 2 1/2 weeks from last shot I can feel my levels going down. Pain in feet/legs gets worse, brain goes blank, headaches, stomach aches, loss of appetite, dizzy, loss of balance. I also suffer from essential tremor and the shakes get much worse when my B12 starts to go down. I see an Internist who would like to see my levels higher so still doing shots every 2-3 weeks, will retest labs in 6 months. I noticed about 2 months ago I have pain in my muscles (upper body) most all the time now. Told the doctor about this but no comment. I will have to do research and make sure it is not a problem from the B12 injections or other medication I take. Anyone else have muscle pain?
Chris I also have the severe muscle pain. The pain is located in my shoulder blades. It began with the right shoulder blade and is now in both. At times the pain is so intense it does make me hurl. The research I have done indicates that severe muscle pain is also a symptom of the B12 deficiency. Unfortunately I was diagnosed when I was in the 4th stage of the deficiency.
My muscle pain in 1999. Other symptoms followed but my diagnosis was caught very late as it appears your was.
hya all and a happy new year!! well im now back in cyprus and goin to get my bloods done tomorrow at last who knows maybe ill get some shots sometime soon!when i seen my docotor last week he examend my liver and spleen checking for flamation but thats all clear but hes still going to check for everything so he can tick things off his list like chrones disease which i have no symptoms for at all but he said evan very minor chrones could cause low b12. apparently once my bloods are back – shockinly out here takes 3weeks – i will then be put forward to the hospital for further test with specialist so we will see how this progresses from my bloods just be nice to get back to my normal self no more extreme fatigue my husband doesnt get that i struggle through the day on 6 – 7hours sleep wen i have my two girls to be looking after housework to do etc its so draining and i hate feeling like it myself let alone me moaning about it aloud every so often. not like my girls get up much during the nite my 2yr old sleeps all nite and my 6months old wakes around once to twice a nite really bad nite is 3-4times but thats rare and then i really am struggling to keep my eyes open im more irritable less patience frustrated with myself for feelin like i do. ill also be happy to get rid of the nagging pains, sometimes they are just there other times its really sore burning numbing pain and can b anywhere on my body sometimes my one leg from knee down or my shoulder to elbow etc etc ahhhh i just cant wait to be sorted and have everything back to how it should be! roll on! i defo feel like i could do with a shot though but my doctor wont untill these results are back evanthough i took my lab results back here with me and shown him grrrr!
I had to wait on this month’s shot until my lab results came in which means I got the shot at a 4 week interval instead of 3 weeks. I was supposed to get it last night but was delayed until tonight because of a snow storm. My friends daughter, who is a nurse, gives it to me. She wants to teach me to inject myself, says it will be easy. I am afraid because I also have essential tremor and my head, body, and hands shake. I will try and be brave and consider this. It would come in handy when I visit my parents or travel. Like usual, when I got to the 3 week interval time I started to notice my memory getting worse, headaches, sleeping more at night and falling asleep during the day, stomach ache, shooting pain in feet and hands. I have these symptoms all the time still but they get much worse when my levels start to drop. I don’t feel well (flu like) for a few days after shot but am looking forward to a few better weeks after that. I went to the library today for a couple of good books and plan to rest thru the weekend out of the cold and snow.
Hi I don’t know were to start in august 2011 I kept having bladder problems with no infection but stuff in my urine from then I started getting floaters in my eyes then numbness in my arms amd legs leg pain tremors in my body kept going the doctors who said youv got too many symptoms you must be stressed anyways after having enough I moved doctors who told me I had low b12 and need injections I have my first one tomorrow I just hope it makes me feel better iv got to see a gastro doctor to see why I’m not absorbing it iv been havin bowel problems in worried sick its bowel cancer I’m 32 I’m so stressed about it its on my mind all the time I had an inflamation test done and mines 35 so somethings wrong somewere.
With low B12 it is not uncommon to have stomach aches and intestional problems with inflamation. All my labs were very abnormal when I was first diagnosed but now after 9 months of treatment things are improving. Keep in mind that this anemia causes red blood cells to be abnormally shaped and than oxegen is not carried to our body (organs) properly. The symptoms you have can be from a low B12, so don’t panic. Chances are you do NOT have cancer and that the shots will start to help you feel better. Good luck and let us know how you make out.
I am sitting here, utterly exhausted, as I write this… I had been feeling really bad for a while, don’t know exactly how long, just know it’s been months and it got progressively worse. I went to my doctor, told him how I was feeling and he did blood tests. My B12 is at 160. I have a 2 1/2 year old and I am tired anway, but this is different. It is so hard to explain the symptoms unless you have felt them yourself! I have the extreme fatigue, dumbness, tingles, ringing in ears, headaches, trouble sleeping well,vision issues, dizziness, etc…I started my twice a month injections 2 weeks ago and I am supposed to go today for my second. I forget how it feels to feel “normal”. Oh, did I mention the confusion and forgetfulness? I hate feeling so much less than myself. I hope I start feeling good again SOON!
I just learned that my B12 level is 200. I’m currently taking 1200mcg of B12 sublingual and 200mg of Folic Acid (tablet). My dr plans to recheck my levels in 3 months, however, I was wondering if anyone could tell me the possible cause of this deficiency. I do not have any of the diseases that are associated with B12 deficiency (that I know of that is) so I was curious if it could be stress related. I started having symptoms of chronic fatigue, weakness and body tremors approx 3 years ago. I went from being overactive to underactive pretty much overnight. It’s really frustrating being so debilitated. If anyone could give input it would be appreciated. Thanks!
What a relief to read other peoples stories and realize I am not crazy!!!! I have been diagnosed 3 times with a low b12 over the last 10 years. The first time I pretty much blew it off, was younger and thought it was t a big deal. Second time I was pregnant and told by my primary the baby was taking all the b12 I was taking in and leaving me without, so I got monthly injections until my daughter was born. Recently I started feeling the same shoguns I had when I was pregnant…headache, heart palpitations, breathless, mouth ulcers and sore tongue. I called my Dr and asked to come in and have bloods done. Why are Dr’s so reluctant to preform tests unless it’s their idea?? Well, my level was 80!!!! She said she has only had one other patient (elderly) with a level as low as mine. Great. So I did bi-weekly injections for 2 months and 3 monthly injections for a total of 7 shots in 5 months. Had my bloods done again…182 and still a low folate. Ha, I’m told by the nurse this lab considers normal range from 180-914 so I’m in the low normal range. They would like to continue monthly injections. I’m ok with that, but I’d like to know what is causing it to be low just the same. My mother has Crohns and gets a monthly b12. I don’t have any other symptoms related to Crohns…I don’t think. My Dr doesn’t seem to be concerned. I asked to be referred to a GI specialist. I’m still waiting to hear back. I really feel I need to see another/different Dr. Am I choosing the right path? Should I be seeing a hematologist? Sooooo frustrating!!!!!
I had my levels checked they r at 101 I’ve been on shots eveyday for two weeks my body hurts bad somedays I can’t even move my Vit D level is 15 can’t they admit me and stop the pain and get me levels up to where I can at least function
There are other blood tests they did for me that showed I have no Intrinsic Factor…my Grandma had this really bad. She used to get the shots and blood transfusions also. Found out my cousin also has it. Doctor feels mine was inherited. The point is, mine will never go away and I will need to take the B12 injections for the rest of my life because I am not able to absorb the B12 in my stomach/intestines. My level was 39, doctor was afraid I would suffer organ failure. After 9 months of treatment my count is up to 400 but she would like it even higher. I still have all the symptoms, better than at first but still really bad. Have been told my symptoms are probably going to be permanent because they think I had it for a long time, especially with the severly low count. My point is, YES, find a doctor who knows what this is and how critical it is to treat it properly. I can’t go back and change the fact that I complained of symptoms for years only to be told they could not figure it out. No one bothered to do a simple B12 test until this past year and only because I went in telling her I really thought I was dying…Little did I know I was. Stay on top of your care and if you don’t get the help you feel is correct, go to another doctor!
Read this article and comments with much interest. Excellent information from all of you. I agree with getting not just a B12, but thyroid and Vit D. I’ve just gone through 2 1/2 years of pure hell and felt I would surely die from LPR. My esphogeal spinchters just went “limp” on me and didn’t work anymore. My Drs gave up on me last summer. They said there was not much more they could do for me. No one every bothered to give me any of the tests you have all mentioned. I’ve always been tired my whole life, had anemia always, had bad memory…on my own I found out I was deficient in Vit D. I’ve been slowly recovering. I am going to try to get my B12 levels up to 800+ after reading your comments. When I think too much about how badly I’ve been treated by my Drs its makes me want to cry. They even sent me to mental health in Oct 2010 as I couldn’t take the throat pain anymore. I looked at all the men laying in the ER room hooked up to monitors laughing with their families and I laid on a gurney in writhing throat pain and the Dr sent me to mental health. They later said they were sorry that they believed me. My throat was seared from the spinchters not closing off the stomach and acid hitting my throat and burning through the nerves that go up into the head. It was a horrible thing to go through. To know your real sick and Drs think its mental. I am totally digusted with my health care and I’m stuck as I’m in a HMO. If they pharmacuetals don’t work then they blame it on mental illness. I think its worse for women.One Dr told me to “…you have an allergy, keep taking the Flonase, if the pain is not gone in two months then there is nothing more we can do for you.” That is an exact quote. I will never forget it. If you all have time check out Dr. Gomainak’s opinions. She has indexes at the top of her page and its so interesting. She mentions B12 and Vit D and sleep.
Hello! I am a 29 year old female. I went to my gyno to have some tests ran because my mom recently got diagnosed with hypothyroidism. I had been feeling extremely sluggish and started gaining weight. My thyroid came back fine but my B12 was 272. My gyno started giving me B12 shots once a month, then every two weeks and over the past 4 months its only went up to 344.
A week or so ago, Dr Oz had a special on B12 and had a neurologist on with him. They acted like if your B12 was low you need to seek a neurologist immediately. So, I called my gyno and they sat me up with one. The one thing I am questioning is before they would take me as a patient they said I have to be having headaches?? My gyno told them I have been, but I havent? I dont understand. Will I just be wasting my time? I do feel like the B12 shots help me for maybe 3 or 4 days then I feel bad again. I am unsure of any of this. Any helpful information would be GREAT! And where exactly should my level be for my age? I was told that my B12 level was that of an elderly and that I should be pushing 1100-1200. What is correct? Thanks!
Amanda,
You need to have patients when it comes to recovering from B12 deficiency. It takes months and even years for you body to heal as much as it can. Some people have full recoveries, some partial and unfortunately some don’t recover much. It is great that you’re already getting the shots, and every two weeks is super (that’s the schedule I am on ). If you can get your levels between 1000 – 1200 that is fabulous, but it can be hard to do. You want to be at least 800 if you can. As for the neurologist, you should definitely see one, but be aware that not every neurologist is as aware of the severity of B12 deficiency as they should be. If they brush you off, or don’t think that 272 is deficient (many doctors won’t diagnose B12 deficiency unless you are under 200, others realize you are deficient under 400) then be sure to get a second opinion.
Good luck with your recovery!
I have been having tests in rhematology in the hospital for variou ailments including paresthesia – 9 years plus, ongoing which causes intense itching in arms which, when scrathched causes horremdous burning pain like someone has set fire to me but continues to itch (on reserch I have found something called Brachioradial pruritis – but doctors fail to ee this as a recognised illnes), I also have posible cervical facet disease and joint pain in hips and recurrent nodular epicleritis. They don’t think I have any underlying stematic autoimmune disese and dsay my B12 is ok, noderline 165 ??? Can anyone tell me what this level means?
That should have said ‘borderline 165′ – sorry – keyboard playing up!!!
Only 2 weeks out from last shot and am having so many symptoms. Swept kitchen floor, then cleaned it, then had a shower, now feel like I could lay on floor…could hardly stand in shower! Even with my numbers being in the low 400′s I suffer so much. Doctor said be patient, it may take years to resolve, may be permanent. This is hard…I am normally the person who does it all. To top it off, I am sleeping 10 hours a night and usually have to give in to a nap every day. Guess today I am feeling sorry for myself. When I feel better in a few hours will get out for a little walk, library etc. to lift my mood.
Chris,
I know it is hard to have patience when you are trying to recover from B12 deficiency, but unfortunately you have no choice. Your doctor is correct it can (and usually does) take years to recover as much as you will from this deficiency. You have to remember that it probably took many, many years for your body to become so deficient. I can tell you from personal experience that it is a long road. When I started getting shots, I felt like I was taking one step forward and two steps back for the first 6 months. Then little by little I would start to have one good day, then another until I was having as many good days as bad. Then more good days than bad. Now I only have a few bad days every once in a while. While no one can determine how much you will be able to recover, you need to give your body lots of time to heal.
It’s ok to have days when you feel sorry for yourself, not many people truly understand how horrible B12 deficiency is.
Hope you were able to have a nice walk and feel a little better:)
I started out feeling good this morning, went to pool for so excercise, made veg. soup, ran a few errands…then it hit. I started to get spots in my left eye, more than floaters…then noticed my vision was getting worse. I drove to eye doctor and after testing found the retina had come loose…was told this should resolve itself, not a tear or detachment…also told I have 2 bleeders. I have low blood presure so that is not a concern. Doctor can’t say for sure it is from B12 problems, side effect from medications, or just one of thoses things. Was told it should all resolve itself over the next few months…recheck in 3 months. Has anyone had problems like this from B12??