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low b12

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Crohn's Disease
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Posted 3/4/2008 4:12 PM (GMT 0)
I am wondering if anyone else has found it hard to maintain your B12. I believe mine is very low because I have no energy, always cold, and I have no balance. My balance issue is so bad I lost my balance and fell threw my glass coffee table. I did this on 3-03-08 4 days before my 37th birthday. What a b-day gift to myself right?  Well I would really hear from anyone who has also dealt with this problem currently or in the past. I would like to know what your doctors did for you.
Posted 3/4/2008 4:15 PM (GMT 0)
I had most of my terminal ilieum removed where B12 is digested, so I never get B12 by eating food or taking a pill. I either use weekly B12 nasal spray or get a monthly injection (either need to be prescribed by a doctor after a blood test to diagnose).

Posted 3/4/2008 4:21 PM (GMT 0)
I too have had my terminal ilieum removed. I have just started (3 months ago) the B-12 injections. I have seen that people can get them bi-weekly, so that is something that I may inquire about as I do not notice any difference. Good Luck.

Jill
Posted 3/4/2008 4:50 PM (GMT 0)
If you've had your TI removed, you should be tested for low b-12 levels. I've been on injections for over a year and they really help. When was the last time you had a CBC done? It might be time to call the doctor and have a general check up.
Posted 3/4/2008 7:25 PM (GMT 0)
My doc discovered after I complained of tingles and numbness in my fingers that my blood levels indicated very low B12, so he started me on shots then weaned me onto pills...havn't had any issues since and this was at least 8 yrs ago now...I'm still taking the pills (1200mcg, timed released, one/day in the evening with food for best absorption).

:)
Posted 3/4/2008 7:39 PM (GMT 0)
Crohnnie, I would suggest you talk to your doctor. Most of us have B12 issues and like me are on monthly or bi-weekly shots.

B12 deficiency can get serious if left unchecked, and in some cases effects, are irreversible...
Posted 3/4/2008 8:39 PM (GMT 0)
Is there a special test to check B12 levels or would it be included in tests your GI would routinely order to check anemia/cbc/inflammation levels?

Posted 3/4/2008 8:49 PM (GMT 0)
The Schilling test is performed to check vitamin B12 absorption.

Posted 3/4/2008 10:22 PM (GMT 0)
Your PCP can do it as a routine blood test, you do not have to see you GI...
Posted 3/4/2008 10:42 PM (GMT 0)
I have had the whole right side of my colon removed. I was told by surgeon that he took everything attached to that side of colon and I know that is where the ileum is so it is gone. Never been on b12 supplements or injections but also haven't seen a doc for this in 12 yrs.
Posted 3/5/2008 3:13 AM (GMT 0)
Would it be benficial to take B-12 anyway, even if the blood tests came back OK?  If so, would a pill, or a sublingual suffice?

--t

Posted 3/5/2008 3:41 AM (GMT 0)
I don't think there would be any point in taking it if you're not lacking it, it seems it would be a waste of money since there'd really be no benefit.

:)
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