Macrocytic anemia, is an alternative name for anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency, according to MedlinePlus. B12 deficiency may be caused by lack of intrinsic factor, which is a stomach protein needed to help absorb B12 from food. Poor B12 absorption is also caused by chronic alcoholism, intestinal diseases and chronic use of acid reducing drugs.
Vitamin B12 and Diet
Vitamin B12 is needed by the bone marrow for the production of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, metabolism and maintenance of healthy nerve cells. Vitamin B12 is naturally found only in animal products, such as beef liver, chicken, turkey, fish, shellfish, eggs, milk and dairy products. Vegetarians are at risk for B12 deficiency and macrocytic anemia. Vegetarians may obtain B12 from fortified foods such as breads and cereals and dietary supplements.
Symptoms and Complications of Macrocytic Anemia
Macrocytic anemia causes symptoms such as fatigue, lightheadedness, pale skin, problems concentrating, diarrhea, constipation, shortness of breath, swollen red tongue, bleeding gums, depression, numbness and tingling, loss of balance and problems walking, according to PubMedHealth. Untreated B12 deficiency anemia may lead to permanent nerve damage, severe dementia and psychosis.
Treatment of Macrocytic Anemia
Patients with macrocytic anemia symptoms should seek medical treatment so to avoid complications. Patients with severe symptoms of macrocytic anemia are mainly treated with life-long B12 injections. Vitamin B12 shots are preferred because of fast absorption and immediate relief of some symptoms of deficiency. Oral forms of B12 take longer to be absorbed than injection forms because they have to undergo the digestion process before absorption. Patients with digestive problems may also not absorb B12 oral tablets.
Vitamin B12 Adminstration
Vitamin B12 shots are administered as intramuscular injections in deep muscles such as the deltoid and ventrogluteal. Patients allergic to cobalamin and other ingredients in the B12 shots should avoid receiving the injection so as to avoid severe allergic reactions. Patients with Leber's disease should avoid B12 shots as it can lead to blindness, according to Drugs.com. Common side effects of B12 include pain and irritation at injection site, headache, dizziness, nausea, upset stomach, fever and joint pain.
