Pernicious anaemia, no stomach acid and pain

[Suesue246]

I have had pernicious anaemia for 18 years and injections every 10 weeks. I have suffered with reflux, heartburn and congestion for many years. Last year a 24hr manometry test revealed I had zero stomach acid. Doctors offer me no advice at all to help with my digestive issues. This includes when I have seen gastroenterologists on nhs and privately. I think about trying digestive enzymes but don't know where to start.My question is whether my widespread joint and muscle pain is linked to my pernicious anaemia or my lack of stomach acid which I presume can cause nutrient deficiencies.

[clivealive Forum Support]

Hi Suesue246 I'm sorry to read of your problems with digestion.

I too have suffered with low stomach acid since 1959 when I had gastric surgery for a burst peptic ulcer so it's been a long 65 years struggle.

Some on here suggest apple cider vinegar whereas I add a few drops of lime juice to a glass of water with meals.

Have you actually seen a dietitian? Maybe that can help?

As to the joint and muscle pains have a word with your GP to see if you need or can have more frequent B12 injections. The "one size fits all" syndrome is a fallacy, especially as we grow older

I am not a medically trained person.

I wish you well

[Suesue246 in reply to clivealive]

Thank you for your reply. The gastroenterologist told me that dieticians did not deal with this when I specifically asked. I am going to ask the g.p. to do blood tests to look for deficiencies plus see if they will agree to more frequent injections to see if it helps with my joint and muscle pain. My usual g.p. did a B12 test when I mentioned more frequent injections despite me informing her that B12 levels are irrelevant to retest once on injections so I do not think she will agree to try more frequent injections. However I'm hoping another g.p. at the practice will say yes. I know from what the nurses there say that some patients have more frequent injections. I will try the lime juice with meals.

Do you know if muscle and joint pain is a recognised symptom of undertreated P.A? Thanks again.

[wedgewood]

I know that some PA patients with severe Stomach acid deficiency get good relief with Betaine Hydrochloric Acid capsules with pepsin . ( Amazon ) Taken with protein meals . Recently a member mentioned them as being really good . You need to find the right dosage . There are instructions somewhere on the internet .

Also more regular injections of B12 woukd very like likely help as well . I will private message you .

[wedgewood]

Also with zero stomach acid you will not be absorbing other vitamins and mineral very well . So do take a multi vitamin and mineral supplement , Also take smaller meals more often ., and CHEW WELL . This enables. The enzymes in your saliva to start the breaking down process that is essential to absorption of vitamins , minerals etc .

[Suesue246 in reply to wedgewood]

Thank you. That's helpful

[Organon]

Hi Suesue , Sorry about your ongoing probs. Re digestive enzymes they are sometimes used in treatment of cystic fibrosis. I would consider talking to your pharmacist as to whether he could/would recommend use of same enzymes in your situation. If he has any clients with Cystic F. he may be able to offer useful info. Also as these products are not toxic, it's possible he could dispense/prescribe same as well as some dietary advice.

Good luck. Dylfan

[jaybirdxNHM]

Hi, Well before I was diagnosed with PA, I was diagnosed with Inflammatory Nodular Osteoarthritis. After some yrs I started SI. Still doing 3 times a week. My arthritis has now improved. Still causes pain but not so much . I put this down to the jabs the coincidence is spot on.🤞🤞

[Suesue246 in reply to jaybirdxNHM]

Thank you. My mum has recently been diagnosed with osteoarthritis. When I asked about my risk of the condition in the light of my joint amd muscle pain I was told I was low risk.