Insufficient B12 and Low Folate

[Hyposucks]

Since my last post 10 months ago, my subsequent consultations with various GP's about my concerns of low B12, IF antibodies and falling folate have fallen on deaf ears. I had a private blood test via Bluehorizon a couple of days ago:

B12. 215 (insufficient 145-250)

Serum Folate. 5.92 (8.83-60.8)

I can't get an appointment with my doctor until 30th August. Please advise what I should do. Should I wait to see the doctor or take matters into my own hands and supplement before seeing the doctor? (My thinking - something is better than nothing).

I was taking 100mg Levothyroxine at the beginning of this year but reduced it slightly and self-medicated adding 12.5 T3 in April. I have felt very well on this combination until recently which prompted me to have the BH blood test. I have had for many months a slight fuzzy feeling in outer 3 fingers of both hands. I informed my doctor of this last year.

Your advice would be greatly appreciated.

[clivealive Forum Support]

Hi Hyposucks I'm bothered that you have Intrinsic Factor Antibodies yet haven't been diagnosed with P.A. and put on B12 injections.

I refer you back to a reply that taka made to your original post ten months ago.

"Intrinsic Factor Antibodies 8.1 (<6 U/ml)

What did your private doctor say about your anti-intrinsic factor antibody test? This appears positive to me (though I'm not a medic) as it is above range ie you have Pernicious Anaemia.

I'd go back to your GP and discuss your anti-intrinsic factor antibody test (especially in light of your strong family history) and request B12 injections for life as per the BSH guidelines. pernicious-anaemia-society.... I wouldn't wait until your levels drop or develop symptoms (presuming you don't already have some!) as this runs the risk of developing neurological damage.

Your B12 levels currently look reasonable but if you were supplementing these tests aren't necessarily a true representation of what is going on. Did your supplements have high levels of B12 in them? Even with PA a small amount can be passively absorbed (~1%) so if these had highish levels of B12 in they may have skewed your results even months down the line.

Do you have any symptoms of a B12 deficiency? pernicious-anaemia-society.... It may be hard to tell what is being caused by your thyroid problems and which B12 though, sorry".

His advice looks to be appropriate to today.

I am not a medically trained person but I've had Pernicious Anaemia (a form of B12 deficiency) for more than 46 years.

I wish you well.

[Hyposucks in reply to clivealive]

Thank you for replying Clivealive, I am bothered too. When I saw a doctor in Nov '17 with B12 at 432 (180-640) she said I was within range and 'noted' that I had brought to her attention my IF antibodies. Another blood test 4 Jan '18 B12 557 (180-640) again in range no comment about IF antibodies. I'm banging my head against a brick wall.

[clivealive Forum Support in reply to Hyposucks]

Are you a member of the P.A. Society - they will give you expert advice?

To join the Pernicious Anaemia Society click on the link below and scroll down

healthunlocked.com/api/redi...

[Hyposucks in reply to clivealive]

Thank you Clivealive I just joined