B12 deficiency Anemia/ Pernicious Anemia? Are You At Risk?
Pernicious anemia is a type of anemia that affects millions of people worldwide yet often underdiagnosed in many patients. It is a condition that occurs when the body is unable to absorb enough vitamin B12, which is essential for the production of red blood cells. Without enough red blood cells, the body cannot get enough oxygen, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Causes of Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anemia is caused by a lack of intrinsic factor, a protein produced by the stomach lining that is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12. Intrinsic factor binds to vitamin B12, allowing it to be absorbed into the bloodstream. If the body does not produce enough intrinsic factor, it cannot absorb enough vitamin B12, leading to pernicious anemia.
There are several reasons why the body may not produce enough intrinsic factor:
Autoimmune Disorders: Pernicious anemia is often caused by an autoimmune disorder that attacks the cells in the stomach lining that produce intrinsic factor.
Gastric Surgery: Certain types of gastric surgery can also cause pernicious anemia by removing or damaging the cells that produce the intrinsic factor.
Dietary Factors: A diet that is low in vitamin B12 can also lead to pernicious anemia. Vitamin B12 is found in animal products like meat, fish, and dairy.
Symptoms of Pernicious Anemia
The symptoms of pernicious anemia can vary from person to person, but common
symptoms include:
Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak, even after getting enough rest.
Shortness of Breath: Feeling out of breath or unable to catch your breath, especially during physical activity.
Pale Skin: Skin that appears pale or yellowish in color.
Numbness and Tingling: A tingling or "pins and needles" sensation in the hands and feet.
Changes in Mood: Irritability, depression, or confusion.
Diagnosis of Pernicious Anemia
To diagnose pernicious anemia one needs to order blood tests to check your vitamin B12 levels and other markers of anemia like iron deficiency which has similar symptoms. If your vitamin B12 levels are low, in order to determine the underlying cause, we would check for intrinsic factor antibodies or suggest an endoscopy to examine the stomach lining.
Treatment Options for Pernicious Anemia
The most effective treatment for pernicious anemia is vitamin B12 supplementation. This can be done through injections, IV or oral supplements. If pernicious anemia is caused by an underlying condition like an autoimmune disorder, treating the underlying condition helps improve symptoms.
In some cases, people with pernicious anemia may need lifelong vitamin B12 supplementation to maintain their health.
In summary, Pernicious anemia is a serious condition that can cause a range of symptoms, from fatigue and weakness to numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. With proper treatment, most people with pernicious anemia can manage their symptoms and maintain their health.