Is there any reason for a drs office to over diagnose low B12? My husband and I recently changed to a new dr and the first time I went in she said I was low B12(haven't gotten the number yet) and needed injections. Didn't realize till I went in they actually have a sign in sheet for lab, for dr, and for B12 specifically. It makes me wonder why she has so many B12 people.

It would certainly give me pause to wonder. I have seen many doctors in different states over the past 50 years and not one ever said I needed a B12 so yes i would say that although it wouldn't hurt I would probably find another doctor.

Shelby,
Around here, the B12 shots aren't big ticket items - I think it's like $5 a shot for my insurance, so I doubt it's a money thing. I'd want to know the B12 number they found on your test.

They changed the range of acceptable B12 levels, according to my hema, and the old standard said something like anything above 150 was ok, and now the new range says 400 and above. Maybe your dr is just on top of things. Ask what your number is and evaluate that with your symptoms. You can always try the sublingual vitamins if you don't want to get hte shots.

Japlopper, Have you seen anything in writing with regard to the new range for B12. I would be very interested in pointing this out to my doctor as my number was 324 (211-911) and I am certain that, along with the HypoT, is contributing to my symptoms. I have started taking the sublingual B12 and will see if it helps. Thanks, Hoppy

Hoppy,
I haven't seen anything in writing, but next time I am at the hema, which is Feb.7th, I will ask her where we can find the new range. It's really critical to many people, espeically those whose drs are not giving them B12 shots frequently enough.

I will find out the answer. I was glad she was on top of it, because when my level was in the 300's, I was having real big trouble - serious muscle twitches, numb fingers, joint pain, headaches and terrible nausea.

Take care,
Jill

Jill, Thank you so much. I will look forward to the information. I am having the same issues, ESPECIALLY bone/muscle pain in my hips and thighs. My Vitamin D level is low also, 21 (32-100) and I am taking 50,000IU (Rx) once a week but my gut says B12 is an issue as well. The doctor says not to worry about B12 unless it is below 200!! I appreciate your reply. Hoppy

I'm going to take them either way because I have experinced permanent numbness in two toes. This could be why however I haven't had any of the other symptoms.moodiness, tired, forgetful.

Shelby,
I had numb fingers and toes as well, but it resolved after I got my B12 levels in the 800's and kept them there for a few months.

Hoppy,
Sadly, most drs are so ill-informed about B12 levels. I had a great deal of muscle and bone pain before they got everything straightened out. One other thing - they told me to make sure to get plenty of potassium. If your body is low on it, it can't use the B12 it's getting effectively. I have a friend who has low potassium and B12, and it wasn't until she got the potassium straightened out that her B12 levels started getting better. Her numb fingers and toes finally got better. It's something to keep an eye on, especially since you're low on D, too.

Jill

Hey, Thank you again, Jill!! I have an appointment with my GP next week and I am going to call and politely request some blood tests (B12..again, ferritin...was low normal at 30 (10-291) and I will ask her to check potassium too). I guess the worst that can happen if for her to say no. I see that my potassium was normal at 4.2 (3.5-5.5). Is there an upper range for serum folate? My lab range says normal is >5.4. My level was 16.6, so that is either too high or GREAT! Strange because I read that when B12 is low, usually folate is as well. Thanks again for your reply, Hoppy

I too have been suffering from joint pain, foggy head,muscle pain , headache,anxiety to name a few. I tested low normal at 284 on a scale of 200-1000. I also had to treat myself with b12 sublingual because my Dr felt I was normal. I too would love to see the range if you get it from your Dr. I have learned alot from you guys and I really appreciate your help. KW

hello, my B-12 was in the 260's range for a while and was not good, i did experience all the symptoms and didnt let up untill i began to go weekly for injections, but the Homosystien was elevated and they say it goes up as the B-12 goes down and you don't want that for too long. now i'm trying too find out if i should be taking Folate or something while getting the injections, the doctor i go to does'nt seem to know

Paulie,
If your folic acid level is too low, your body will not be able to process the B12 you're getting. Have them test it, and if it's low, you need to take folic acid tablets.

Jill