Which consultant

[Chalky1064]

Hi . As recently posted I start my injections on Monday and wanted to keep on the front foot with fighting this issue. When I see my GP next week I would like to push to see a consultant, with PA should I see a Haematologist or a neurologist (my arms and hands have pins and needles)?

[fbirder]

See a neurologist. Or a gastroenterologist.

There isn't a lot a haematologist can do. Any blood problems (macrocytic anaemia) are very likely to be completely fixed within a few weeks of starting treatment. The haematologist will, most likely, pronounce you completely cured.

A neurologist will be able to do tests to determine if it really is B12 that is responsible for your neuropathy. It probably is, but it may not be. And, if it isn't, you want to find out ASAP.

PA is an autoimmune disease of the stomach. A gastroenterologist will probably want to do a gastroscopy - to confirm that you do have autoimmune gastric atrophy and to look for signs of Neuroendocrine Tumours (NETs).

NETs are fairly rare, but are much more common in people with PA than those without. They tend to be indolent - they sit around for years and years doing nothing. But they can develop into gastric cancer, so it's good to know if you have them.

I was discovered to have NETs four years ago. My treatment is to have gastroscopies every year (now every two years) just to make sure they're not doing anything.

[Nackapan]

Depending on your symptoms an Mri of your brain and or spine might be ordered by your Gp. I was referred to a neurologist after this who then suggested to gp to refer on your a haematologist or gastro. All depends on your symptoms.

Check you've been tested for PA and folate and caeliac and iron. So you know what you need treatment for.

Take each stage at a time.

The most important thing at this stage is b12 injections starting.

[EllieMayNot]

An open minded and well informed neurologist would be a valuable asset. Unfortunately, I have yet to find one for myself. Not trying to say all are bad, just saying that my faith in the medical system (USA) is virtually non existent as specialist after specialist have all missed the numerous autoimmune issues I have just recently been diagnosed with. I was fortunate enough to finally find a functional practitioner who is very well educated and has been able to put the pieces together with proper testing and help to get me on the right track toward better health. All of this to say don't give up if you don't get the right answers right away. We have to be our own health advocates.