Anyone here live in the u.s.?

[Autumn11]

Hi everyone, wanted to know if anyone here lives in the u.s. that could help me with as to what kind of test to ask for when seeing a doctor. Already had my vitamin b12 blood test done.

[MoKayD]

Hi, I'm here in the US, east coast. I've not had any tests done other than testing my blood for B12 and iron. When I asked my doctor about being tested to find out the cause of my B12 and iron deficiencies, he told me that the currently available tests give inconsistent results. I know I should probably be more interested why I'm not absorbing B12 but I really don't feel like going to all of the trouble. I've pretty much decided it's because I'm getting old and my stomach doesn't absorb nutrients from my food as well as it used to. I think I read that 20% of people over the age of 50 have B12 deficiency. My shots are working and I'm taking digestive enzymes with my meals (sometimes) to help absorb other nutrients. I don't know if there is any correlation, but I feel like my deficiency problems started after I had my gallbladder removed. It's probably just a coincidence.

[Autumn11 in reply to MoKayD]

Wow, good to know there is someone in the U.S. like me. I didn't know removing your gallbladder would have an effect. But I sure do believe you, I'm going to make sure I'll never get my gallbladder removed. Hopefully.

[MoKayD in reply to Autumn11]

Let me clarify, Ive never read any medical reports that say gallbladder removal causes B12 deficiency. I just feel like all of my digestive problems started when I had mine removed. Believe me, if you have ever had a gallbladder attack because you have gall stones, you'll grab a knife and remove your gallbladder yourself.

[Autumn11 in reply to MoKayD]

I know, I understand. Just like all my problems started after I took some strong antibiotics..I'll never be the same!