Looking for a little bit of reassurance

[MatthewOrr1]

Hello all,

First time poster here. I have been suffering for the last month or so with some symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Being an otherwise fit and healthy mid 20s male this is not something I expected to hit me. Burning sensations in my hands followed by foot cramps, pain and muscle spasms.

My initial visit to the GP was unhelpful, the standard 'let's give it a few weeks and see if it goes away' so I have done that but it's only got worse.

Through my trawling of the internet of my symptoms I came across vitamin B12 deficiency. I have been taking Ranitidine on and off (more on than off) for about 2 years now and I read that h2-receptors can inhibit the absorption of B12.

I have another GP appointment this week and I will bring it up, however i expect to be fobbed off so have ordered a private 'active b12' blood test.

Do you guys think I am on the right lines here? (I know you aren't medical professionals)

[wedgewood]

It is very possible that the Ranitidine has neutralised your stomach acid , which is needed to facilitate absorbtion of vitamin B12 . If you cannot give up Ranitidine, the only way to get sufficient vitamin B12 is by injection . Also , lack of stomach acid can interfere with the absorbtion of other vitamins and minerals , so it would be good to take a daily multivitamin and mineral tablet . But the most difficult to absorb is vitamin B12 , and that needs your immediate attention . Best wishes .

[MatthewOrr1 in reply to wedgewood]

Thanks. I have ended up getting private and NHS tests and all have come back normal which is good and bad I guess. Hand pain has eased off a little of late so I guess I will have to wait and see.

[MariLiz]

It sounds as though you are on the right track. Did you not want to ask your GP for a blood test for B12? They can be a bit moody about you going elsewhere for proof. However if the test shows low B12 you will need your GP’s help to get your injections underway.

Best wishes

MariLiz

[MatthewOrr1 in reply to MariLiz]

Thanks. I have ended up getting private and NHS tests and all have come back normal which is good and bad I guess. Hand pain has eased off a little of late so I guess I will have to wait and see.

[MariLiz in reply to MatthewOrr1]

Hope things will continue to improve for you, and I’m glad the test results were ok.