What is B12 defficiency

[laurasarah]

I've just been told I am slightly B12 defficient. Does anyone know what this means? I am going back for more blood tests tomorrow.

X

[abra1d]

I have B12 deficiency, too, and take sub-lingual B12.

It means that the red blood cells are shaped like doughnuts. They can't convey oxygen as well as they should so you feel very tired and lethargic. Untreated it can be more serious, so it's good they're giving you more tests.

Sometimes people can't digest B12 from food--they are lacking something called intrinsic factor. I take sub-lingual B12 because it bypasses my stomach by being digested in the mouth. Sometimes doctors prefer you to have regular injections.

I felt a lot better when I started taking the SL B12 each day.

[laurasarah]

Hi abraid

Thanks for that. Why do you get it then? I have an underactive thyroid gland, is it anything to do with that? Does it mean that you have trouble fighting infections as well?

[abra1d]

I don't know, laurasarah. I must admit to being a bit naughty here--I was diagnosed in January and told to take the tablets and go back and have another blood test and talk to the doc.

And I haven't been yet.

I had auto-immune illnesses when I was younger. I'm wondering whether it's connected.

But I do feel better for the extra B12.

[laurasarah]

Thanks for the advice will let you know how I get on tomorrow.

Hugs

X

[abra1d]

Please do! I'm keen to learn as much as I can about this.

[laurasarah]

Hi abraid

Well been for blood tests (feel like a pin cushion). She didnt really say a lot apart from my iron levels have come back slightly low so the doc wants to check all of my iron levels, whatever that means!

Apparently there are two types of B12 deff, one where you have iron tabs and the other where you have to have injections!

Anyway I wont find out the results until next week so I'll keep ya posted.

X

[abra1d]

Laurasarah--sorry I missed this. How did you get on with your results?