instow1

[Instow1]

dear friends

On my last call to hemo nurse I was told though my platelets have come down my white blood cells are low though not criticaly Should I take vitamin 12. Does anyone else take this. Thank you for any reply

[hunter5582]

It is not unusual to see the leukocytes suppressed when cytoreductive medications are used. I experience this with Besremi. Note that it matters which leukocytes are depressed as the different type of cells have different jobs. When mildly depressed, the immune system an still respond to an infections. The acceptable levels my MPN care team set are (anti-virus) lymphocytes>0.50 and (anti-bacteria) neutrophils>1.00.

I do take a Vitamin B complex, but it is due to a measure Vit B/folate deficiency. I take Vit D and magnesium supplements for the same reason. Likely due to long-term PPI use.

My Integrative Medicine doc recommended Reishi and Astragalus supplements to boost the immune system. Cordyceps was another possibility she suggested. While I cannot prove that the supplements do any good, I have experienced mild leukopenia for some time now with not serious infections other than when I contracted COVID. I recovered the same from COVID as anyone else would have.

If you are interested in pursuing a complementary health intervention, suggest that you consult with an Integrative or Functional Medicine doctor. These providers are more knowledgeable about complementary health. It is important to get expert guidance when managing a condition like a MPN. Anything that is biologically active enough to help you can also hurt you and interact with other drugs.

Wishing you all the best.

[Instow1 in reply to hunter5582]

Thank you hunter

[Amethist]

have you have your vitamin levels checked? If not , that would be a good starting point. Suggest vits D, B12, folate , iron. This will give you a better idea if you need to take any additional vitamins.

[Instow1 in reply to Amethist]

Thanks for the reply

[PhysAssist]

Hi Instow1,

While your thoughts about Vitamin B12 being associated with the production of blood cells is understandable, it would not be very likely to be an issue in your low WBC, because it's really only associated with the production of red blood cells.

On the other hand, deficiencies of Vitamin B12, folate [AKA folic acid], and even Vitamin D can contribute to many other symptoms including nerve dysfunction, fatigue, and m=numerous others, so I agree wholeheartedly with Amethist that if your blood levels haven't been checked, they should be.

Like Hunter, my WBC's have also been on the low side because of my body's response to Besremi, but also like Hunter, my Heme MD isn't too awfully worried as long as it's not too too low, and my platelets and RBC's stay better controlled.

B12 deficiency is actually quite common now because it's mostly found in red meat, which we are all likely to be limiting in trying to be heart-healthy.

Vitamin D deficiency is most common in the northern hemisphere, especially in the winter, but also in anyone trying to stay healthy by limiting sun exposure [and sun screen can block enough to enhance that effect].

Best wishes,

PA

[Instow1 in reply to PhysAssist]

thank you for your reply

[saltmarsh]

I am fortunate to have a very good specialist who put me on Vit D a few years ago (note that D is better absorbed with some fat content food). Awhile ago I was also put on iron because I had a deficiency and am now tapering that down. At my last visit it was suggested I add Vit B12. I've been on it for a month and I think it is helping with the fatigue. Understand B is not easily absorbed and the best form will be either liquid drops or a dissolving pill, both of which go under the tongue for best absorption. The key is having a doctor who calls for a very broad range of bloodwork periodically. Good luck

[Instow1]

thank you for your reply