Scotland - seeking non-NHS practitioner

[LadyFromTheMountains]

Hi, I think I have a B12 deficincy or PA. So far tests say my B12 and IFABs are fine. But I have a long list of symptoms which say I'm definitely not fine. But GP won't look any further. I've been seeking someone to see privately but can't find anyone with a specialism or special interest in Scotland. Can anyone here recommend anybody..?

[Ghound]

Hi, I'm just here to commiserate, as unfortunately I don't have any recommendations I'm afraid.The problem arises because the issues caused by B12 deficiency cross a spectrum of different medical specialisms, haematology, neurology etc.

Apologies if you've already tried, but have you asked for a second GP opinion ?

I did this, and although she still didn't think I had B12 deficiency, she did refer me to see a hospital consultant.

He was a general medicine specialist and admitted he "wasn't an expert on B12" 🙄 but he did get me started on every other day B12 injections.

As far as private consultations, you maybe have to decide which of your symptoms are causing the most concern eg. neurological, and base your enquiries to private hospitals on that specialism.

Being a canny ( mean ? 😄) Aberdonian myself, I understand you don't want to waste money on fruitless consultations, but if one doctor wasn't up to speed on B12 they may recommend someone who is.

Good luck, and hope you find some answers soon,

Very best wishes xx

[LadyFromTheMountains in reply to Ghound]

Thank you so much. Things being as they are, I've seen a few GPs (all in the same practice) over the last months and years and I don't think any of them understand anything about B12 deficiency, all they seem to understand is blood tests and normal ranges.

I had requested a referral to a haematologist or a neurologist but I was told that a referral to the integrative care centre would be more appropriate - I've been referred there before, they teach you about mindfulness etc, and obviously it doesn't help.

I definitely don't want to waste money and that is my worry... I have a toddler and we're just buying a house. We don't have money to waste!!

I really appreciate your reply. And I'm glad you got started on the injections, thank goodness you found someone willing to try to help.

Xx

[Ghound in reply to LadyFromTheMountains]

Hi, I'm so sorry you've been given the run around like that 😥. I can only suggest being more forceful regarding a referral, including a letter citing the fact that you don't think the " treatment " offered by the integrative care centre is appropriate given your symptoms.

Please refer to posts by regular contributors on here, eg. Sleepybunny for tips on the information and wording to include in a letter.

I had a real battle to get taken seriously by my GPs

If they think you don't have B12 deficiency, what DO they think is wrong ?

The first GP I saw couldn't/wouldn't answer that question !

As I'm sure you know, treatment should be given according to symptoms experienced, not just on lab results- see NICE guidelines.

Consider joining the PAS, they have been helpful for many sufferers.

I really hope you can access the help you need very soon.

Take care, best wishes xx

[srf831]

Have you tried an active B12 test and MMA test from a private company? I used medichecks. The NHS don't offer these tests which are much better in diagnosing B12 deficiency.

[LadyFromTheMountains in reply to srf831]

Thank you. I've looked at these online but I wasn't sure if the NHS would take the results seriously if the results came back suggesting an issue..?