IBS is not a Disease; It is a condition.

[Pajarorose]

I had symptoms of IBS for five years. I was finally diagnosed by the neurologist with low Vitamin B12. I was prescribed sublingual Methylcobalamine, 500 mcg. daily. It has been three months and I am 90% normal. I am still careful by avoiding milk, although I can eat ice cream and cheeses now, as before my illness. I still have to watch the fruit, although that is improving also as I was able to tolerate a nectarine the other day. I am looking forward to more improvement, but I thank God and the neurologist every day that I no longer suffer from gas, bloat, constipation, incomplete evacuation, pain, vertigo, nausea. I am able to lead a normal life now.

Of course, not everyone with IBS has this deficiency, but my story warrants looking into that. Taking Vitamin B12 when you are not deficient can cause a lot of problems so you must be diagnosed by two lab tests to confirm it -- one for Vitamin B12, and if it is low or borderline, a test for high Methylamonic acid.

[tony11173]

Thats interesting to know and im happy for you Thanks. Usually we think of gastrointestinal doctors. Out of interest, how was your iron levels ?.My ferretin is low for 10 Years and im vegitarian which further adds low level despite many gut and colon cameras, no cause found so far. im thinking my IBS could be autoimmune related.

[Pajarorose in reply to tony11173]

I did consult gastroenterologist. My upper endoscopy and colonoscopy were clear. I was referred to neurologist after five years of no or "IBS" diagnosis. I was having encephalopathic episodes. He tested me for B12 due to Vertigo and numbness in lower limbs. B12 is essential in the production of hemoglobin which provides oxygen to the digestive system. My iron levels were normal. I am older and have taken many antacid medications which could be a factor in my low B12.

[Viklou in reply to tony11173]

IBS isn't an auto immune condition. But some auto-immune conditions can cause IBS. Maybe it's worth checking your thyroid or other connective tissue disorders as hormones and the nervous system can wreck havoc on your guts. As you've had a few camera tests and other imaging, I assume you could rule out inflammatory bowel disease.

[tony11173 in reply to Viklou]

Thanks. Interesting thoughts. Yes, the numerous cameras didnt detect any obvious structural abnormality. I've also developed peripheral neuropathy and worsening gut issues which worsened after my first cov19 vaccination but i would hate to link the two.!

[markgrewar]

b12 doesn’t cause any issues in high doses. Ever. It’s water soluble and urinated out.

[Jo5454]

hi, glad to hear you are so much improved!

Could I ask if you did a private MMA test or whether yr consultant arranged it please? I’ve had MMAs to diagnose b12 def previously, but had to arrange them privately as Dr wouldn’t. Need to check again, so am looking for ways to do this.

Many thanks and enjoy your wellness…