Possible B12 Deficiency?

[Anna275]

I recently had a blood test to rule out PCOS and thyroid issues as it was discovered on a scan that I have a polycystic ovary. All the results thankfully came back normal however the one thing that stuck out to me was my MCV was 98.9 (normal was listed as >99). When I googled it, I found that this could be caused by B12 deficiency. They did not check my vitamin levels as part of this blood test.

I've noticed a few changes recently - My hair is thinner/drier and has suddenly started to go grey all over (I'm in my early 30s but no one in my family went grey until their mid to late 40s), my hands and feet are freezing all the time, I have low energy and feel anxious, and most concerning, I've noticed that I'm struggling to pick the right words when speaking, and frequently lose my train of thought/forget things. I've also been experiencing some slight double vision when driving, and have been referred to an eye hospital for a "slightly raised optic nerve" on a scan. I originally thought this could be caused by a thyroid issue those levels appear to be fine.

A lot of these random symptoms seem to be covered by B12 deficiency but as the result is just within the normal range the receptionist said I don't need to take any further action. Should I follow up with the GP? I don't have much experience with how the NHS works and don't want to come off as a hypochondriac. Is it worth explaining my other symptoms and asking for additional tests?

They are all classic B12 deficiency symptoms. You need your B12 and Folate checked, as long as you're not taking any supplements containing B12. It's best then to get a copy of the results and look for yourself as many GPs say B12 is 'fine' when it is actually too low. Doctors don't get much training on Vitamin deficiencies and few of them realise how dangerous low B12 can be

This is a great site for info, it's well worth reading through it all. Unfortunately, those of us with B12 deficiencies usually have to be our own advocates

www.b12deficiency.info/

There is also an amazing support group on facebook that is worth joining

Each trust has different treatment ranges. Google the one for your area and then you are in a better position to challenge the decision. If you have symptoms they really shouldn't be ignoring it.

Unless you don’t eat any animal products, and don’t get b12 through fortified milks etc, then probably not a b12 deficiency

My DH was told he was low in B12 after a blood test and just told to take supplements, with no suggestion of a follow up blood test. I am going to get him to follow up on this advice, because he eats plenty of foods with B12 in, indicating that he in fact has a problem absorbing the vitamin. I think go back to the GP, tell them your symtoms and to ask to be tested because, as a pp mentions, it seems like you have to be your own advocate and B12 deficiency is serious long-term. It seems that even a low normal level should be of concern (to the patient if not the GP).