RESOURCES

Pernicious Anemia 2

Q: What is the treatment for this kind of anemia?

A: Pernicious anemia results from the inability of the body to absorb vitamin B12 taken in food or any oral form. It is therefore necessary to give vitamin B12 injections on a regular basis for life. These injections are given into the muscle.

If the anemia is caused by a nutritional lack of B12 in the diet (and there is no absorption problem from the bowel), adding the appropriate foods and/or vitamin B12 supplements by mouth is usually sufficient. The treatment needs to be monitored to ensure an adequate response. This is shown by a return of the red cells to their normal size and function.

Pernicious anemia is a disease condition that needs to be diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. When treated appropriately and in time, not only does the anemia reverse but the damage to the nervous and other systems resolves. If the condition is neglected, permanent damage and even death can occur.

Q: What are the sources of vitamin B12?

A: Vitamin B12 is produced only by microorganisms, and humans receive vitamin B12 only from the diet. It is present only in foods of animal origin (including milk and eggs). Some claim that vitamin B12 can be obtained from vegetables; this is from bacterial contamination and manure in which the plants are grown and is both unhygienic and insufficient. Well-planned ovo lacto vegetarian diets (plant-based with eggs and dairy products) usually supply adequate amounts of vitamin B12. If one chooses to eat a total vegetarian diet, it is essential to supplement the intake of vitamin B12 in tablet or syrup form. Failure to do so sets one on a sure course for health problems.

The body has stores of vitamin B12 that last up to four years; it may take 5 to 10 years for the deficiency to show in a clinical form. The message is that the diet must be well planned and, if necessary, supplemental B12 should be taken.

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