Ask the experts
I was diagnosed with pernicious anemia. I received injections weekly and then monthly. I was told that I would have to have these injections for the rest of my life monthly. Then my doctor told me to wait for 3 months between injections. In addition to the pernicious anemia I am having severe lower back and leg pain. I have osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. This has been going on since April of this year. I have only been able to work half days since June. I can't understand why the doctors have been unable to find a solution to this problem. I am only 49 years old and I want my life back to normal. I can't believe that I am going to have to settle for being this way for the rest of my life. Can you suggest some questions that I could present to my doctor? I am at a loss right now, and it seems they are just throwing up their hands on my problem. Please help if you can.
Doctor's response
Pernicious anemia is an immune disorder characterized by the production of antibodies to cells of the stomach (parietal cells) and proteins (intrinsic factor) produced by the stomach which are important for the normal absorption of vitamin B12. The result is inadequate B12 absorption from food in the diet which leads to inadequate red blood cell production (anemia). Generally, once pernicious anemia is diagnosed, intramuscular B12 injections are continued indefinitely--typically monthly.
As to what specific questions to ask your doctor, you might begin with what is causing your symptoms of lower back and leg pain. When you have a better understanding of what the particular diagnosis of these pains is, you might have a clearer short- and long-term picture.
Medical Author: Carolyn
Janet Crandall, M.D.
Medical Editor: William
Shiel, MD, FACP, FACR
