What does this mean?

[Anniegirl56]

One more question, I have consistantly low B12 levels even after taking vitamins.  The first level was 211 and the second level taken was 256.  I think it is in the low normal range but would this have any effect on the thyroid?  Just wondering if I need to have that looked into or is that a symptom that goes along with thyroid issues?

[kitty9309]

Low b12 can go along with thyroid disease. Both diseases can be autoimmune.

If you have Pernicious Anemia, you will be unable to absorb enough b12 through your stomach/intestines.  B12 shots are very effective and also sublingual b12 can also raise the levels quickly.

Low b12 can cause many symptoms, even in the low normal range. Other countries (Japan) use about 500 as the lower limit. My levels are 899! I take sublingual b12.

[twiggy1234]

my b12 is 180 and doc says i have to wait for more blood results to come back before i can get b12 shots,i wish they would hurry up because i feel so tired all the time and the pins and needles are driving me crazy not to mention the burning.

[twiggy1234]

anyone who can tell me what a normal b12 level is, i would really appreciate this information thanks.

[kitty9309]

"The diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency has traditionally been based on low serum vitamin B12 levels, usually less than 200 pg per mL (150 pmol per L), along with clinical evidence of disease. However, studies indicate that older patients tend to present with neuropsychiatric disease in the absence of hematologic findings.5,6 Furthermore, measurements of metabolites such as methylmalonic acid and homocysteine have been shown to be more sensitive in the diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency than measurement of serum B12 levels alone.3,10-"

This is from the following website:

http://www.aafp.org/afp/20030301/979.html

Especially look at the chart further down on this site.

Here is some more info:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitamin_B12_deficiency

Hope this helps and you get those shots soon!

[stella5349]

I agree with Kitty - many hypoT patients develop B12 problems. I read her links and they are very helpful.

I hope you see a difference soon if you choose those shots.