tangerine49

I would like to talk to anyone out there who has significantly elevated vitamin B6 levels and who also has been diagnosed peripheral neuropathy.

I went to see a neuro 4 years ago because of complaints of mild numbness in hands and feet, burning (sunburnt type sensations) worse when covered with shoes and in hot climates; flushing of skin (especially in the legs); instability and heaviness in legs; diminished reflexes, etc.

My nerve conduction tests were abnormal when tested. The neuro called it idiopathic polyneuropathy. I also have mild Hashis (which according to my own record keeping) probably starting in the lates 90's when I used to have a TSH of 1.62 (the lowest I know of for which I have records), but is now bordering at or above 4 for the past 7 or so years. I also have significantly elevated antibodies (both types Anti-TPO, Anti-TG), and mild enlargement of the right thyroid lobe.

I have only been on thyroid meds (both natural and synthetic) for the past few years, but have still not been getting good results and am still trying to get this sorted out and optimized. Two years after seeing my neuro, I asked to have a Vitamin B6 serum test done (not a standard test here) - through my Naturopath, which I had to research on my own and get done through a major Canadian Centre. Most docs did not even know it was available (not even my neuro). It turns out that my levels were 10 times higher than the upper range of normal. I had seen a Naturopath about 15 years ago, and was given Solaray Multis to take. I was also taking a men's multi later (when Solaray was no longer available in Canada). I believe these multis had up to 50mgs of B6 as a daily dose. As soon as I found out about my B6 levels I stopped the multis altogether. It has taken about 1 year, and my levels are now about 150% of the normal range (much less than the original test). Of course we all believe that B6 is 'supposed' to be water soluble and go right through you, but for some reason this did not happen for me. When I told my neuro about this and showed him a copy of the test he was surprised. He knew of no cases of vitamin induced neuropathy on such low levels of B6. Anyway, my symptoms have not changed at all in 4 years, in some cases I think they are worse.

Long story short, for those of you that have B6 elevations and peripheral neuropathy, what are your symptoms EXACTLY? Since I have other health issues complicating the matter, I am trying to figure out how much of my neuropathy is based on the B6 versus thyroid/metabolic issues, etc. If you could let me know what your hands and feet feel like exactly, it would be very helpful to me, as well as any other symptoms that you may have and what if anything you are doing about it. It's been a struggle for me through all of this. I used to be the picture of health, boundless energy. I have always taken care of myself, never smoked, non-drinker, eat healthy, gym regular, etc. So I'd like to start some dialogue on those in the same boat.

Sorry for the long message. Thanks very much.

You can send me a private message if you wish or post on here.