Pernicious Anaemia?

[arch060583]

Hi there, I have a question about pernicious anaemia. I recently had a series of blood tests and was told that I had low levels of calcium and a folate deficiency. I was prescribed folic acid for 3 months and then to go back and get retested. Apparently my level of B12 was ok but I’ve read that the level of B12 in the blood can be misleading? My dad has pernicious anaemia and needs to have injections. I wondered if it’s possible I could also have pernicious anaemia? I’m 35 but I know it’s something that normally affects older people. Would be grateful of any advice, thanks.

[JanD236]

Do you feel that you have symptoms of pernicious anaemia?

[Nackapan]

I thought you could get it at any age. Ask them to do more tests and as JanD236 says have you symptoms of b12 defiency?

[arch060583]

Thanks for replies, yes I do have symptoms but as I understand it the symptoms of folate deficiency and B12 deficiency are the same? They tested my B12 and it was ok but I guess I can ask if there’s another test.

[greenbexy]

Ask for actual numbers, you are entitled to have your results from the doctors. You might be right at the lower end, but because you are 'in range' it is being overlooked. Once you get the print out of results start a new post and don't forget to put the range on, different labs have different ranges.

[Hidden]

Our daughter was diagnosed with Pernicious Anemia in her mid twenties.

[GastritisB12]

I have got it at 41. Ask for the exact figure, UK's 'ok' is some countries low. USA is low below 245, I think many people on here had symptoms around that level.

[MissPoshOxford]

Hi, I was diagnosed with PA aged 26, am now 44. I started struggling with anaemia aged 13 (iron deficiency initially maybe due to starting periods) but was weak, pale and tired for many years. PA is usually found in people over 60 but if your dad has it then I would argue to be tested again. Unsure what tests they do know, I had the old now obsolete Schilling Test, get bloods done and get an understanding doctor. Or contact Martyn Hooper who is chairman of the PAS, Pernicious Anaemia Society. Best of luck and look after yourself.