Iron might be the supplement you think of when you think about anemia, but pernicious anemia is actually associated with vitamin B-12. Though a B-12 deficiency is rare, some individuals may not be able to absorb this vitamin or may develop a deficiency due to dietary restrictions or medications. Talk with your doctor about whether you may be at risk of a B-12 deficiency and what you can do to prevent developing pernicious anemia.
Vitamin B-12 Identified
Vitamin B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin, which means that the body does not store this vitamin; it must be obtained regularly through diet or supplementation. Vitamin B-12 is necessary for red blood cell formation, neurological functioning and synthesis of DNA. As one of the B vitamins, it also helps the body convert food to energy and metabolize fats and proteins. Most individuals obtain the necessary amounts of B-12 through diet, but some individuals may have trouble absorbing the vitamin. A deficiency of vitamin B-12 can manifest itself as megaloblastic anemia, fatigue, constipation, weight loss and loss of appetite.
Pernicious Anemia Identified
Pernicious anemia occurs when the body is unable to produce enough healthy red blood cells due to a lack of vitamin B-12. Individuals with this condition typically have difficulty absorbing vitamin B-12 through the foods they eat because of a lack of intrinsic factor, a protein found in the stomach. A lack of red blood cells can cause fatigue, but long-term side effects of pernicious anemia can be more serious, like heart or brain damage. This condition has no cure, but individuals with pernicious anemia can lead a normal life by getting ongoing treatment to ensure they have enough B-12.
Treatment
Pernicious anemia is typically treated with vitamin B-12 shots or pills. Shots of this vitamin are usually given first if the anemia is severe and are given intramuscularly daily or weekly until the blood serum level of B-12 is normal. Once levels normalize, shots may be reduced to monthly administration. In less severe cases of the condition, high-dose vitamin B-12 pills may be prescribed, as well as B-12 nose gels or sprays for individuals who cannot easily swallow pills.
Considerations
If you lack intrinsic factor, you cannot prevent pernicious anemia from developing, but some individuals may develop the condition due to a lack of B-12 in their diets. This vitamin is mostly found in animal products, so vegetarians and vegans should incorporate B-12-fortified cereals and other foods into their diets to avoid developing a deficiency. Good dietary sources of this vitamin include meats, dairy products, eggs, shell fish, beef and pork. If you are taking medications like chemotherapy drugs, anticonvulsants, proton pump inhibitors or metformin, talk with your physician about your risk of vitamin B-12 deficiency.
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