Pernicious Anemia Symptoms
Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anemia is a decrease in red blood cells that occurs when the body cannot absorb vitamin B12 from the gastrointestinal tract. Pernicious anemia is a type of megaloblastic anemia and caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12, which is needed for normal production of red blood cells. Here are the pernicious anemia symptoms that you should watch out for and take proper measures.
Symptoms of Pernicious Anemia
Symptoms of pernicious anemia may vary depending on the severity of the condition. A lack of vitamin B12 may cause nerve damage. This can cause tingling and numbness in your hands and feet, trouble walking, muscle weaknes, memory loss and confusion.
Vitamin B12 also affects the gastrointestinal system and the cardiovascular system. Symptoms include nausea and vomiting, abdominal bloating and gas, constipation, heart burn, loss of appetite, diarrhea and weight loss. Other symptoms include heart murmur, fast or irregular heartbeats, and enlarged heart.
The most common symptom of pernicious anemia is fatigue (tiredness). The following symptoms indicate pernicious anemia:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Chest pain
- Pale skin
- Rapid heart rate
- Loss of appetite
- Tingling and numbness of hands and feet
- Confusion
- Loss of memory
- Diarrhea
- Bleeding gums
- Weight loss
- Tongue problems
Pernicious Anemia information
Diagnosis of pernicious anemia:
Tests to diagnose pernicious anemia include:
Complete blood count
Schilling test
Serum vitamin B12
Stomach acid tests
Treatment of pernicious anemia:
Pernicious anemia is treated using injections or vitamin 12 supplements.
Foods rich in Vitamin B12: Foods rich in vitamin B12 include eggs, meat, oranges, fortified cereals, rice, wheat germ, green leafy vegetables, spinach, lettuce, broccoli, sprouts, asparagus, peanuts, beans, soy beans, chickpeas, peas and lentils.
Also read:
- Magnesium Deficiency Symptoms in Women
- Vitamin D Deficiency Symptoms
Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin and is needed in the development of strong and healthy bones. Vitamin D is available in some dietary sources such as fish, eggs, fortified milk, and fish liver oil. Vitamin... - Whooping Cough Treatment in Adults
What is whooping cough? Whooping cough or pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the upper respiratory system. The infection causes irritation in breathing passages, resulting in severe... - Baby Vaccinations and Immunization Schedule
It is important to know your Baby's vaccination and immunization schedule. Getting your baby vaccinated or immunized is the best way to protect your child from life threatening-diseases.