B12 injections

[Squidge44]

I’ve had ibs for years and I’m 75 and keep having terrible flare ups. It’s sole destroying and always seem to be letting people down as I can’t go to functions that I say I will. I’ve now been told I’m b12 deficient and am having injections. So far I’ve not noticed any difference dr seems to think I’ll feel like a new woman after these jabs, but nothing has happened. Anyone else on these jabs

[Clairey82]

I am currently halfway through the injections and have felt no difference either! Had you ever been investigated for you IBS? I only ask this because a B12 deficiency can mean your bowel isn’t absorbing it. I had a colonoscopy this week and have been told I have crohns. I’m not saying this is the case for you but is definitely worth investigating if you haven’t already. Hope you start to feel a difference soon.

[Squidge44]

I had a CT scan 18 months ago and they confirmed IBS and diverticulitis and said there is nothing they could do I would just have to manage. They also found two tumours on my ovaries which had taken away. I had blood test in April and that’s when they said my b12 and folate levels were very low, so this is why I’ve had the injections. My ibs is really playing up at the moment and doctor has suggested I take loperamide every other day. I don’t think anyone understands ibs and how difficult it is to live with. Hope you will get yourself sorted now that you have diagnosis xx

[Linley in reply to Squidge44]

All of us on this lovely site realize how IBS can be difficult to live with so you are not alone.

IBS can be managed but its trail and error to find out what is right for you.

Diverticulosis complicates things as if you have a bout of diverticulitis(infection) your GP can give you antibiotics to settle it down. I think it was unkind of the clinicians to dismiss you and just say manage it. You suddenly have alot to cope with especially the removal of the ovarian tumours. Are you being monitored by your GP and could your GP/practice nurse give you some dietary tips for managing diverticular disease?

Good Luck and let us know how you are getting on

[KBird01]

Can I recommend joining the Pernicious Anaemia Society on HealthUnlocked. Its an excellent, well informed forum and I'm sure they will be able to help.

There could be many reasons why you aren't feeling the benefits, including the injection frequency and also the importance of folate and other co-factors. Unfortunately most doctors know very little about this issue and mis-interpret treatment guidelines.

Good luck! 😊