What are the symptoms of pernicious Anaemia?

Symptoms of pernicious anemia may include fatigue, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, jaundice or pallor, tingling and numbness of hands and feet, loss of appetite, diarrhea, unsteadiness when walking, bleeding gums, impaired sense of smell, and confusion.

Does pernicious anemia show up in blood test?

If blood tests reveal a vitamin deficiency, your doctor may perform other tests to determine the type and cause, such as: Antibodies test. Your doctor may draw a sample of your blood to check for antibodies to intrinsic factor. Their presence indicates pernicious anemia.

What is the difference between pernicious anemia and B12 deficiency?

Examples include infections, surgery, medicines, and diet. Technically, the term “pernicious anemia” refers to vitamin B12 deficiency due to a lack of intrinsic factor. Often though, vitamin B12 deficiency due to other causes also is called pernicious anemia.

When should you suspect pernicious anemia?

Your doctor may recommend other blood tests to check: Your vitamin B12 level. A low level of vitamin B12 in the blood indicates pernicious anemia. However, a falsely normal or high value of vitamin B12 in the blood may occur if antibodies interfere with the test.

What are the long term effects of B12 deficiency?

Untreated B12 deficiency will eventually lead to anemia and neurologic complications such as unsteady gait and paralysis. Low levels of the vitamin have been found to be associated with depression and dementia, increased confusion, lethargy and even osteoporosis.

Does pernicious anemia go away?

With ongoing care and proper treatment, most people who have pernicious anemia can recover, feel well, and live normal lives. Without treatment, pernicious anemia can lead to serious problems with the heart, nerves, and other parts of the body. Some of these problems may be permanent.

Is pernicious anemia curable?

Today, pernicious anemia is curable. A person who has pernicious anemia requires lifelong monitoring and treatment. However, if you left this disease untreated, it can result in severe health problems. Fortunately, most of complications are reversible.

How rare is pernicious anemia?

Pernicious anemia is a rare condition, with a prevalence of .1 percent in the general population and 1.9 percent in people who are older than 60 years, according to a 2012 study in the Journal of Blood Medicine. This type of anemia is called “pernicious” because it was once considered a deadly disease.

Is pernicious hereditary?

Pernicious anemia is caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12, which is needed for normal production of red blood cells. It is often hereditary. Risk factors include a history of autoimmune endocrine disorders, a family history of pernicious anemia, and Scandinavian or Northern European descent.