Low B12--Risks and Tests?

[YellowWolf]

I got a letter today from my neuros office stating my labs show low b12 and I should start taking 1000mcg daily. Could this cause all my bfs or als symptoms? Should I still have the emg and ncv?

 

[BobJazzy]

B12 deficiency could absolutely cause twitching. In my opinion, you don't need an EMG. However, I think it will help you get over your own doubts so in that sense, I think you should have it done. Getting over the anxiety is the key to getting over BFS. -Matt

 

[YellowWolf]

Thanks Matt..I googled and it really does seem like this could be the reason. I truly feel like my death sentence has been lifted. I am sure I will go through with emg just for extra peace of mind. From what I have read the twitching and other symptoms may be permanent after we correct the b12 but knowing its not the big bad I can deal with it!

 

[LaurentHCH]

if neurological damage is caused by b12 defiiency it is not reversibel. however this takes years. b12 supplementation does not affect the twitching i am afraid.

 

[BlueMan]

Glad you found a possible explanation for your BFS. A B12 deficiency can cause a variety of neuro symptoms, not just what we talk about in BFS. Do you have the other symptoms that come with a B12 deficiency (also known as pernicious anemia), including sluggish or absent reflexes, reduced touch sensatinon, or psychiatric symptoms? Also, in a B12 deficiency, a CBC (complete blood count) will show signs of anemia, and many people with B12 deficiency also have GI symptoms. Several other vitamin deficiencies, notably vitamin D, can also produce neuro symptoms. But the pattern of symptoms is again different from BFS. In addition, these vitamin deficiency diseases are progressive: the longer you go without sufficient levels of the vitamin, the more you experience deterioration and dysfunction.I hope you are working with your doc to make sure nothing else is overlooked. Correcting a vitamin deficiency is simple once the underlying cause is identified. I also hope that your B12 deficiency is the sole explanation for your BFS.

 

[YellowWolf]

Aoi..I do have some other symptoms that I just didn't realize were related. I thought they were anxiety related. Laurent I also read that the damage to nerves would not be reversible but as we all know it could be MUCH worse. I truly wish every single person on this board could get a clear cut answer and end their anxiety and wondering as well. I have gotten alot of comfort from these boards the last couple of months.

 

[WindyCityGentleman]

Well it can be your reason and maybe I should wish you that! Because it seems to be fixable good to have a hope.