There are many myths surrounding chronic pain like vitamin B12 deficiency neuropathy, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue; in coping with pain symptoms, it’s important to be able to separate fact from fiction.  Here are some common myths you might have heard recently, and the facts.

Myth #1: Vitamin B12 is useless in coping with chronic pain.

While most healthy people don’t require extra vitamin supplements, people with chronic illnesses require vitamin supplements like vitamin B12, in addition to many other essential vitamins and minerals.

That’s because chronic pain creates an environment that inhibits vitamin B12 absorption.  Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, acid reflux, stomach ulcers, and gastritis make it difficult or impossible for you to digest vitamin B12 naturally from foods.  As a result, people who suffer from pernicious anemia, fibromyalgia, or Crohn’s disease get vitamin B12 from non-dietary sources, such as vitamin B12 shots or, alternatively, a weekly vitamin B12 patch.

Additionally, vitamin B12 deficiency may be difficult to diagnose with chronic pain disorders, as many of the symptoms of fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, or rheumatoid arthritis mask important clues that indicate low vitamin B12 levels.

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency may include:

• Painful tingling in the hands and feet
• Frequent numbness
• Partial paralysis
• Sore tongue and mouth, including burning sensation
• Fatigue
• Brain fog
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Difficulty walking
• Decreased motor skills
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• Acid reflux

The Vitamin B12 Patch for Energy

Myth #2: If your doctor can’t find anything medically wrong, you must be a hypochondriac.

Chronic pain does not always result from a specific cause or visible injury. With fibromyalgia and migraines, for example, chronic pain occurs in the brain as part of a neurological disorder.  Similarly, neuropathy from vitamin B12 deficiency is caused by damaged nerve cells and reduced red blood cell distribution.

Myth #3: Only drug addicts use narcotic painkillers.

If your doctor prescribes narcotics for chronic pain relief, then use them as directed. There is no harm or shame in using painkillers, as long as you follow your doctor’s orders. That doesn’t mean they are without side effects, so it’s important to educate yourself about the use of prescription painkillers.

Myth #4: Painkillers are addicting.

Used as directed, and under the guidance of your physician, there is no reason why you will become addicted to opioids, nor should you need to increase the dose in order to sustain the same amount of pain relief.

Myth #5: If over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers help, then the pain can’t be that bad.

Popping OTC painkillers can be dangerous to your liver, kidneys, and digestive system.  Don’t ignore a serious medical condition by self-treating with pain relievers- always consult your doctor when chronic pain occurs.

9 Conditions that Mimic Fibromyalgia and Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Myth #6: Alternative treatments for chronic pain are a waste of time and money.

Chronic pain therapy requires a multi-pronged approach including medications, stress reduction, and physical therapy.  Today, modern medicine incorporates alternative treatments like acupuncture, vitamin B12 therapy, herbs, yoga, and meditation in coping with chronic pain.

Myth #7: If you can’t cope with the pain, then you must be weak or lazy.

This is a particularly hurtful myth that affects many chronic pain sufferers, and it sometimes prevents people from seeking help.  Trying to ignore chronic pain doesn’t make you brave or strong- it increases your chances of suffering from depression and anxiety down the line.

Myth #8: Your chronic pain is just like my pain.

Different people feel pain differently, just like one person may cope with pain differently from you.  That doesn’t mean that your pain symptoms are worse or stronger than others’ are.  Common terms used to describe pain vary from dull aching and throbbing to burning or electric-like pain symptoms.

Myth #9: You shouldn’t let pain slow you down.

So you’re feeling well today? That’s no reason to run the marathon. Trying to “do it all” creates stress and decreases the number of good days you enjoy between chronic pain flare-ups. Pace yourself, even if you think you don’t have to.

Myth #10: Exercising is one of the worst things you can do during a fibromyalgia flare-up.

Current research indicates that moderate exercise is perfectly safe for people with fibromyalgia or other chronic pain, and actually relieves pain by producing endorphins.  The trick is to choose something that doesn’t wear you out or cause sore muscles.  Good low impact exercises for chronic pain sufferers are swimming, walking, tai chi, and yoga.

Myth #11: No pain, no gain.

Exercise doesn’t have to be painful in order to strengthen your muscles, nor should it cause burning sensations.  On the contrary, pain is a sign that you’re doing it wrong and need to modify your workout.

Myth #12: For chronic pain, bed rest is mandatory.

Actually, lying around in bed all day only worsens conditions like chronic backaches.  While it’s important to rest after suffering an injury, too much inactivity exacerbates muscular pain.  As a rule, always try to get up and stretch your muscles, with your doctor’s permission.

Myth #13: Chronic pain is just a part of growing older.

Chronic pain should not be tolerated as a necessary side effect of aging, and it’s important that your doctor understands that.  Many ailments like arthritis, vitamin B12 deficiency neuropathy, and fatigue are easily treatable, regardless of age.

How to Tell if Chronic Pain is Fibromyalgia: 18 Pressure Points

Myth #14: Only old people suffer from chronic pain.

Many young adults and adolescents suffer from chronic pain resulting from celiac disease, fibromyalgia, migraines, and vitamin B12 deficiency neuropathy.

Myth #15: You can usually tell somebody who’s in chronic pain just by looking at him.

Chronic pain is an invisible illness- people with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue may put on a brave face, but that doesn’t mean they’re not suffering inside. Don’t gauge somebody else’s pain on a scale of one to ten just by observing them- ask them, instead.

Please tell us…

Can you think of any more chronic myths that you would like to add?

Do you have any questions or suggestions?  Please leave your comments below.

Share with your friends!

If you found this article helpful, then please share with your friends, family, and coworkers by email, Facebook, or Google+.

Read more about chronic pain

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How Vitamin B12 Deficiency affects your Nervous System, Part 1: Physical Pain

Sources:

Chronic Pain Myths

10 Facts About Fibromyalgia- Prevention.com

Myths About Treating Chronic Pain

Image: Marco Bellucci

Crohn’s disease is a chronic bowel disorder that causes damage to the intestinal tract, leading to vitamin deficiencies, severe stomach pains, diarrhea, and fever.  Doctors recommend following a restrictive diet for treating Crohn’s disease, in addition to adopting a strict vitamin regimen.  Here are the top 13 vitamins and minerals recommended for Crohn’s disease patients.

Vitamin B12

In order to digest vitamin B12 (cobalamin) from food sources, your body has to be able to make intrinsic factor, an enzyme produced in the stomach that aids in vitamin B12 absorption.  Because Crohn’s disease destroys stomach tissue, it’s common for Crohn’s patients to acquire vitamin B12 deficiency, in addition to other nutritional deficiencies.

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include everyday fatigue, sluggishness, memory loss, painful tingling and numbness in your extremities (feet, hands, tongue), anxiety, and dizziness.

To find out if you have vitamin B12 deficiency, ask your doctor for a blood test to measure vitamin B12 levels.

Treatment requires non-dietary vitamin B12 supplements, usually from a vitamin B12 shot or alternative method.

Read Four Reasons to check your Vitamin B12 Levels with Crohn’s Disease

Folic acid

Folic acid is another essential B vitamin; it’s crucial for preventing birth defects in utero.  If you’re using the sulfa drug sulfasalazine for Crohn’s disease, then you are at high risk for developing folic acid deficiency.  Experts recommend taking 1 mg of folic acid per day.

Vitamin A

Because Crohn’s disease sufferers often have difficulty absorbing vitamin A from food, doctors highly recommend adding the A vitamin to your vitamin regimen.

Vitamin D

Experts have noted a high correlation of vitamin D deficiency among Crohn’s disease patients.  Vitamin D deficiency causes bone loss, muscular soreness, and weakness.  It’s also believed that vitamin D is essential for promoting immune system health.  Sun exposure increases vitamin D levels, but supplements are also available.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E deficiency is high among Crohn’s patients who have difficulty eating foods like dark leafy greens and nuts.  To avoid symptoms like muscular weakness, tingling, and numbness, experts recommend taking daily doses of vitamin E oil.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K occurs naturally in dark leafy veggies, and is essential for healthy blood clotting and bone strength.  If you have difficulty absorbing fat-soluble vitamins, then you should include vitamin K in your daily vitamin therapy.

Iron

Iron anemia is a risk factor with Crohn’s disease, due to intestinal bleeding.  Iron deficiency causes symptoms like extreme fatigue, paleness, and headaches.  A blood test can determine if you have iron deficiency.

Calcium

Crohn’s disease increases your risk for calcium deficiency, especially if you are using corticosteroids as part of your immune system therapy.  Additionally, vitamin B12 deficiency, common among Crohn’s patients, increases your risk for bone loss.  Health experts recommend taking 1,000-1,200 mg of calcium supplements each day.

Magnesium

Crohn’s disease causes severe bouts of diarrhea, during which time high doses of magnesium are expelled rapidly.  To prevent magnesium deficiency, experts recommend supplementing with extra magnesium, especially during flare-ups.

On the Run with Crohn’s? 6 Ways to Ease Public Restroom Anxiety

Zinc

Zinc supplies are also depleted with chronic diarrhea, making this another essential nutrient to take regularly if you have Crohn’s disease.

Probiotics

Probiotics contain “good” bacteria that are helpful for boosting digestive health and preventing pouchitis, a common side effect resulting from pouch surgery.  For best results, ask your gastroenterologist to recommend a specific bacterial strain.

Gut Bugs:Winning the Bacteria Battle

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, such as the kind found in fish oil, are helpful for fighting inflammation, a common side effect of Crohn’s disease.

Glutamine

Glutamine is an amino acid that promotes intestinal health.  Many doctors advise taking 400 mg of glutamine, 4 times per day, for preventing Crohn’s disease symptoms.

Please tell us…

Do you have Crohn’s disease?  If so, do you agree with these dietary recommendations?  Do you use any vitamins that are not included in this list?  Have you tested for vitamin deficiency, including vitamin B12 anemia?

Do you have any questions or suggestions?  Please leave your comments below.

Share with your friends!

If you found this article helpful, then please share with your friends, family, and coworkers by email, Facebook, or Google+.

Read more about Crohn’s and vitamin B12:

Gastrointestinal Surgery for Crohn’s (IBD) and B12 Warnings

101 Helpful Sites for Kids ‘n Teens with Crohn’s (and their Parents)

Crohn’s- 9 Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD) Myths to Ignore

Sources:

Crohn’s disease

10 Vitamins You May Need if You Have Crohn’s

10 Herbs and Vitamins That Are Good for Your Gut

Images: Lori Greig, cohdra, bradley j

If you’ve been diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency, then you probably have many questions. How did I get vitamin B12 deficiency, and how soon will I start to feel better?  Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about vitamin B12 deficiency.

Q: Why do I need vitamin B12?

A: Vitamin B12 is a vital nutrient that controls many essential functions in your body.  People with vitamin B12 deficiency, who don’t have enough vitamin B12 in their blood supply, eventually start to suffer major disorders in parts of their bodies where vitamin B12 is most needed.

Vitamin B12 is essential for the following biological functions:

• Protecting your nerve cells by maintaining the myelin sheath
• Maintaining healthy red blood cell production
• DNA synthesis
• Producing energy
• Supporting cognitive functioning
• Preventing stroke and heart attack through homocysteine control
• Preventing mental disorders like depression, nervousness, paranoia, and anxiety
• Preventing osteoporosis

Q: Where can I get vitamin B12?

A: Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is a water-soluble nutrient, one of the B-complex vitamins.  Vitamin B12 occurs naturally in all animal-based foods, including beef, poultry, fish, dairy, and eggs.  The richest sources of vitamin B12 are liver, clams, crabmeat, lean beef, and halibut.

Q: What are the symptoms of B12 deficiency?

A: If you suspect you have vitamin B12 deficiency, it’s important to get your blood checked immediately.  Left untreated, vitamin B12 deficiency can cause severe nerve cell damage.

Common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:

• Extreme fatigue
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Aggressiveness
• Hallucinations
• Brain fog
• Sluggish thinking
• Low concentration
• Short-term memory loss
• Painful tingling and numbness in the hands and feet
• Partial paralysis
• Sore, red tongue
• Burning sensation in mouth, including lips, gums, and tongue
• Vision impairments
• Muscular weakness and pain
• Bone loss
• Restless leg syndrome
• Twitching
• Difficulty walking
• Poor motor skills
• Frequent clumsiness
• Diarrhea
• Acid reflux

Q: Who’s at risk for getting vitamin B12 deficiency?

A: Vitamin B12 deficiency remains one of the most widespread sources of malnutrition.  People who are most at risk include:

• Vegans
• Anybody suffering from primary or secondary gastrointestinal disorders(gastritis, Crohn’s disease, IBS, autism, migraines)
• People who have undergone gastrointestinal surgery (ex: gastric bypass, ileostomy)
• People susceptible to autoimmune disorders (pernicious anemia, fibromyalgia, celiac disease, diabetes)
• Diabetics using metformin
• GERD patients using protein pump inhibitors (PPIs)
• The elderly

Undetected Vitamin B12 Deficiency- Why is B12 off the Radar?

Q: What is pernicious anemia?

A: Pernicious anemia is a disorder that interferes with production of intrinsic factor, a digestive protein that is crucial for absorbing vitamin B12.  Pernicious anemia patients must supplement with non-dietary vitamin B12 throughout their lives, as they are unable to access B12 from food or pills.

Pernicious Anemia and B12 Deficiency- Historically Fatal, Still Formidable

Q: I have vitamin B12 deficiency. Do I also have pernicious anemia?

A:  Pernicious anemia is a specific form of vitamin B12 deficiency.  There exist only two ways of getting pernicious anemia:

1. Damage to the stomach lining is one possible cause of pernicious anemia
2. The existence of one of two intrinsic factor antibodies confirms pernicious anemia.

Q: If I eat plenty of meat, can I still get vitamin B12 deficiency?

A: YES.  If you are diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency and you’re not a vegan, then you probably fall into the category of people who are unable to digest vitamin B12 naturally from dietary sources, including food and vitamin B12 pills.

Popular non-dietary vitamin B12 supplementations include vitamin B12 shots, vitamin B12 sublingual tablets, and vitamin B12 patches.

Please note that increasing scientific evidence suggests that sublingual vitamin B12 pills are not as efficient or digestible as vitamin B12 shots or vitamin B12 patches.

Also, painful side effects occur often with vitamin B12 injections (which are inserted in deep muscular tissue) and sublingual vitamin B12 tablets (which often cause burning tingling sensations under the tongue).

Q: What happens if I take too much vitamin B12?

A: There is no upper limit assigned to vitamin B12, so you can take as much as you like without suffering any side effects.  The same cannot be said about many other vitamins, so always consult in your doctor before starting any new vitamin regimen.

Can Too Much Vitamin B12 be Harmful? 5 Vitamins to Watch Out for

Q: Once I start taking vitamin B12 supplements, how soon will I start to feel better?

A: Once you begin your regimen of vitamin B12, recovery should begin immediately; that doesn’t mean that you will notice the decrease in symptoms right away.  Some people notice decreased tingling in their hands and feet and increased energy as quickly as hours after getting their first dose of vitamin B12.  For others, recovery is more gradual, and may take several months.

Timing is of utmost importance in treating vitamin B12 deficiency.  If caught early on, then your chances of complete recovery are excellent, if vitamin B12 levels remain normal.  In its latest stages, vitamin B12 deficiency can result in irreparable nerve damage.

Please tell us…

Do you have any questions or suggestions?  Please leave your comments below.

Share with your friends!

If you found this article helpful, then please share with your friends, family, and coworkers by email, Facebook, or Google+.

Read more about vitamin B12 deficiency

Can Vitamin B12 Repair Nerve Cells?

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Sources:

Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet:Vitamin B12

B12 deficiency: a silent epidemic with serious consequences

Images:

renjith krishnan, Michal Marcol

Is chronic fatigue the bane of your existence?  Learn how vitamin B12, the energy vitamin, can help you beat the midday slump.  Here are twelve excellent tips for boosting energy in the afternoon and preventing chronic fatigue.

Are you chronically fatigued?

Chronic fatigue is more than just being tired.  With chronic fatigue, you wake up tired even after sleeping all night long.  You get exhausted by the middle of the afternoon, every single day, even if you haven’t overly exerted yourself.  You know that you’re more fatigued than you should be, more tired than other people your same age.

Tired of being Tired all the Time…It’s Tiring!

1- Boost energy with vitamin B12!

Vitamin B12 is called the energy vitamin for good reason!  Vitamin B12 supplies energy, enhances cognitive functioning, protects your nervous system, supports DNA synthesis, and reduces your chances of heart attack and stroke.

Without enough vitamin B12 in your blood supply, you may experience severe symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, the most common one being chronic fatigue, as fewer blood cells lead to less oxygen being distributed to your brain, making your feel tired, unfocused, forgetful, lacking concentration, and depressed.

Even people who don’t have vitamin B12 deficiency can benefit from this wonder vitamin.  Studies show that taking mega doses of vitamin B12 is great for increasing energy, boosting metabolism, improving sports performance, and increasing mental focus.

And since there’s no upper limit to taking vitamin B12, there’s no chance of overdosing or experiencing harmful side effects.

Will Vitamin B12 Boost Energy if I don’t have B12 Deficiency? YES!

2- You snooze, you lose!

Resist the urge to hit the snooze button in the morning- that extra five minutes doesn’t give you any quality restful sleep, and you’ll only end up feeling dazed and fatigued by noon.

3- Sit up straight!

Sitting hunched over your computer desk inhibits healthy breathing, causing less oxygen to the brain.  This makes you feel dizzy and fatigued.  It’s also bad for your posture, and causes backaches, headaches, and neck aches.  Instead, make a point of reminding yourself every half hour to sit up with your back straight.

4- Don’t skip a meal!

Do you brunch?  Combining breakfast and lunch in one meal might seem like a great time saver, but you’re actually guaranteeing an energy crash in the afternoon.  Skipping meals causes your blood sugar to drop, causing fatigue, nervousness, and poor concentration.

For optimum energy in the afternoon, opt for small regular meals containing high fiber, iron, and protein-rich foods.

5- Have a cuppa!

Caffeine doesn’t deserve the bad rap it’s been getting.  Used responsibly, caffeinated beverages can help you perform better at work, reduce fatigue, and get past the afternoon slump.

Limit yourself to one or two cups of coffee per day, and you’ll reap all the energy-boosting benefits of caffeine without the addiction and withdrawal symptoms.

6- Hydrate yourself!

You may be dehydrated without even knowing it!  Even minor symptoms of dehydration include fatigue and dizziness.  So keep a water bottle at your work desk, by your bedside, and next to your telephone, and drink up!

7- Take five!

Sitting for long periods increases your risk of heart disease and obesity; it also causes fatigue! Even if it’s not your lunch break, take a few minutes to stand up, stretch your arms and legs, and rotate your head a few times. If you have access to an open window, even better!  Take a few gulps of fresh air and you’ll feel less fatigued, and more energized.

8- Mix it!

Every now and then, it’s great to break from your humdrum routine.  See if some of your work duties can be accomplished outdoors, or in a different setting. Take a different path to work.  Even something simple like redoing your desk display can help to dispel the monotony of the workday and revive enthusiasm.

9- Be social!

You don’t have to hang out at the water cooler to interact with people.  Take the opportunity in passing to strike up a quick conversation with somebody, or just pop in for a moment to say hi.  It’ll improve your mood and increase energy.

10- Chill!

As the “witching hour” approaches, head off fatigue by splashing some cold water on your face, wiping your neck with a scented towelette, or even sucking on a few ice cubes.  Cold is invigorating and excellent for fighting fatigue.

11- Don’t stress!

Stress and anxiety are energy draining and fatigue producing.  To beat fatigue, try to stay focused on positive thoughts, and don’t allow negative thinking to ruin your day.  Learn how to meditate, so that when you’re stressed, you will know how to get yourself into a state of relaxation.

Please tell us…

Do you suffer from chronic fatigue?  If so, have you checked your vitamin B12 levels?

Do you have any questions or suggestions?  Please leave your comments below.

Share with your friends!

If you found this article helpful, then please share with your friends, family, and coworkers by email, Facebook, or Google+.

Read more about vitamin B12, the energy vitamin!

The Vitamin B12 Patch for Energy

5-Hour Energy Drinks with Vitamin B12- What’s the Catch?

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome- What is it, exactly?

Sources:

Fighting Fatigue with Diet

Fight the Midday Slump: Six Missteps That Cause Fatigue

Images: photostock, graur codrin, Stuart Miles, David Castillo Dominici,

We know that vitamin B12 protects your nerve cells from harm; with vitamin B12 deficiency, you begin to experience symptoms of severe nerve cell damage, such as painful tingling or numbness in your hands and feet.  Is it too late to repair nerve damage, once the symptoms have set in?  It depends…

Your PNS

It’s important to understand what we mean when we refer to the peripheral nervous system (PNS). While your central nervous system (CNS) includes just the nerves and nerve cells of your brain and spinal cord, your peripheral nervous system includes all the other nerves of your body, the network of neurons that branch out from your CNS to your limbs, torso, face, and internal organs.

Every time you take in the mouthwatering scent of food cooking on a grill, or feel the bite of winter frost on your nose, that’s your peripheral nervous system at work.  Even your inner bodily functions like breathing, blood pressure, and digestion are controlled by your peripheral nerves.

Pernicious Anemia- Vitamin B12 Deficiency is Nerve Rattling- Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral nerve protection

Your central nervous system is well protected by your skull and by a blood-brain barrier.  The same can’t be said for your peripheral nervous system, unfortunately.

The only protection your PNS has includes a coating of a fatty protein called myelin that insulates each and every strand of peripheral nerve cells, very similar to the way cable wires are protected by a strong coat of rubber.

Symptoms of peripheral nerve damage

When myelin erodes, as it does with certain illnesses, your nerve cells may be damaged by free radicals, bacteria, or a number of other threats.  The results are symptoms like nerve pain, tingling, and numbness.  These are the first signs of peripheral neuropathy.

Why do my Arms and Legs often Fall Asleep? B12 and Paresthesia

Unless treated immediately, other symptoms of peripheral nerve damage may include:

• Heightened sensitivity to touch
• Muscular weakness
• Muscular atrophy
• Poor motor control
• Paralysis
• Burning pain
• Organ dysfunction
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Heart palpitations
• Breathlessness
• Excessive sweating
• Infertility
• Increased risk for heart attack and stroke

What causes peripheral neuropathy?

There are only two main causes of peripheral nerve damage- either an inherited genetic anomaly, or an acquired condition, like pernicious anemia-vitamin B12 deficiency, and other autoimmune disorders.

Is Vitamin B12 Deficiency an Autoimmune Disorder? Yup.

Testing for vitamin B12 deficiency and intrinsic factor antibodies is an important first step in diagnosing the cause of peripheral nerve damage.

Treating nerve pain

Medications and treatments used to relieve nerve pain include:

• OTC analgesics
• Mexiletine (heart medicine)
• Anticonvulsant drugs (for epilepsy)
• Antidepressants
• Local anesthetics
• Braces
• Orthopedic devices
• Surgery, as a last resort

Repairing nerve damage

Pain relief treatments will only block the pain, but they don’t address the underlying condition, and they won’t repair the nerve damage.

If peripheral nerve damage is caught in time, then the nerve cells will heal themselves, but only if the threat is removed or reduced.

Untreated, severe nerve damage may become permanent.  Myelin damage could lead to multiple sclerosis (MS), in either your generation or the next.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Movement Disorders- How They Relate

Enter vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining your myelin sheath, so that your nerve cells come to no harm. Other functions of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) include cognitive health, energy, and red blood cell production.

Vitamin B12 occurs in meat, fish, cheese, and egg products, but even people who eat plenty of beef and dairy products may be at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency.  Many factors may inhibit vitamin B12 absorption, like autoimmune disorder, gastrointestinal problems, or simply old age.

8 Ailments Linked with Gastritis, including B12 Deficiency

Will vitamin B12 cure me?

If you are diagnosed with low levels of vitamin B12, then it is crucial that you get your vitamin B12 levels back to normal, in order to prevent nerve damage.  Vitamin B12 shots are standard treatments, but many vitamin B12 deficiency patients opt to peruse a vitamin B12 skin patch for extra protection between sessions.

If you have been suffering from neuropathy for some time now, then it may not be too late.  Depending on the extent of nerve damage, regular vitamin B12 supplementation will ensure that your nerve cells repair themselves quickly, efficiently.  You may take vitamin B12 shots or vitamin B12 patches for life, without any chance of overdosing.

Please tell us…

Do you have any questions or suggestions?  Please leave your comments below.

Share with your friends!

If you found this article helpful, then please share with your friends, family, and coworkers by email, Facebook, or Google+.

Read more about vitamin B12 and your nerves

How Vitamin B12 Deficiency affects your Nervous System, Part 1: Physical Pain

How Vitamin B12 Deficiency affects your Nervous System, Part 2: Mental Health

Balance your B12, Balance your Nerves

The Vitamin B12 Patch for Energy

Sources:

Peripheral Neuropathy Fact Sheet

Images: Stuart Miles,  luigi diamanti, Ambro, Jeroen van Oostrom, graur codrin, ZaldyImg

Don’t panic, but if you have pernicious anemia from vitamin B12 deficiency, then you might also suffer hair loss.  And it’s not just a “guy thing”- even women may experience hair loss or whitening when pernicious anemia (or iron deficiency anemia) is present.  Here’s what you need to know about pernicious anemia, vitamin B12, and your hair.

Pernicious anemia

Pernicious anemia (PA)-vitamin B12 deficiency is a disorder that alters your red blood cells and lowers your oxygen supply to the brain.  Decreased oxygen in the brain causes telltale symptoms like fatigue, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating.

Other symptoms of pernicious anemia may include “pins and needles” or numbness in hands and feet, difficulty walking straight, decreased motor control, depression, anxiety, muscular pain, infertility, and vision problems.

For more on pernicious anemia, read Pernicious Anemia and B12 Deficiency- Historically Fatal, Still Formidable

Iron deficiency anemia

Iron deficiency is sometimes caused by not eating enough iron-rich foods, but it can also result from severe blood loss, pregnancy, menstruation, or…autoimmune disorders, like celiac disease or…pernicious anemia.

Whoa!  Now I have iron deficiency, too?

Unfortunately, iron deficiency is a comorbid condition of pernicious anemia.  So if you’ve been diagnosed with pernicious anemia, because of either intrinsic factor autoimmune disorder or gastritis, then you run a high risk of also suffering from iron deficiency anemia.

Where’s the proof?

Findings from studies such as this JAMA report on iron deficiency anemia note a significantly strong correlation with vitamin B12 deficiency.

Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia

Iron deficiency causes many of the same symptoms as vitamin B12 deficiency- tiredness, moodiness, and general discomfort.

And yes, hair loss.

Iron deficiency symptoms include:

• Rapid hair loss
• Hair whitening
• Dry hair
• Brittle nails
• Spoon-shaped nails
• Nail discoloration
• Frequent bruising
• Pale skin
• Chronic fatigue
• Weak muscles
• Irritability
• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Brain fog
• Headache
• Cold hands and feet
• Restless leg syndrome
• Sore tongue
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Bizarre cravings for ice or dirt
• Sudden weight loss

Iron or B12?

In the JAMA study, participants who received regular supplementation of vitamin B12 saw a complete reversal of symptoms.  In addition to getting vitamin B12 shots or a vitamin B12 patch, it’s important to find out if your iron supplies are also low, so that you may begin the healing process and avoid any further hair loss.

Please tell us…

Do you have any questions or suggestions?  Please leave your comments below.

Share with your friends!

If you found this article helpful, then please share with your friends, family, and coworkers by email, Facebook, or Google+.

Read more about vitamin B12 and pernicious anemia

9 Conditions that Mimic Fibromyalgia and Vitamin B12 Deficiency

6 Degrees of Vitamin B12- B12 Deficiency and Autoimmune Disease

Sources:

Anemia and Hair Loss

Reversible Hyperpigmentation of Skin and Nails With White Hair due to Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Iron Deficiency Occurs Frequently in Patients With Pernicious Anemia

Image: mardy78

Managing chronic pain means treating yourself to lots of TLC, and that includes getting mega doses of vitamin B12 supplements.  Fibromyalgia has a high correlation with vitamin B12 deficiency, due to gastric atrophy caused by fibromyalgia symptoms.  Unfortunately, unless your doctor screens for low vitamin B12 (cobalamin) levels, you could have B12 deficiency without even knowing it.   Here are some tips on getting enough vitamin B12 with fibromyalgia.

If you have fibromyalgia, then you need to get your B12 levels tested routinely.  There are several reasons for this, the main ones being:

Fibromyalgia causes vitamin B12 deficiency.

One of the symptoms of fibromyalgia includes a wearing away of the stomach’s lining.  Your stomach cells make a digestive enzyme, intrinsic factor that is crucial for digesting vitamin B12 from food sources like meat, fish, and eggs.  Damage to the stomach causes decreased production of intrinsic factor, causing vitamin B12 deficiency. Only a blood test can determine if you have B12 deficiency.

9 Conditions that Mimic Fibromyalgia and Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Fibromyalgia is an autoimmune disorder.

And so is pernicious anemia from vitamin B12 deficiency.  Scientists believe that autoimmune disorders are often comorbid with each other.  So, if you have fibromyalgia, then you are at a high risk of also having autoimmune pernicious anemia or celiac disease.  With pernicious anemia, your stomach fails to make intrinsic factor for vitamin B12 absorption because of an autoimmune disorder that attacks your stomach cells.  A test for intrinsic factor antibodies can determine if that is the case.

6 Degrees of Vitamin B12- B12 Deficiency and Autoimmune Disease

Fibromyalgia and vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms are alike.

Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms may mask themselves as other ailments.  This can get confusing for doctors and patients alike, especially when you already have a chronic illness that includes similar symptoms.  Pernicious anemia can be misdiagnosed as depression, fibromyalgia, or chronic fatigue, as symptoms include both physical and mental disorders.

Typical symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:

• Severe fatigue
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Aggressiveness
• Muddled thinking (brain fog)
• Poor attention skills
• Painful tingling and numbness in the hands and feet
• Sleep disturbances
• Decreased motor control
• Frequent clumsiness or tripping
• Impaired memory

Treating vitamin B12 deficiency with fibromyalgia

If you suffer from an illness like fibromyalgia that causes similar symptoms to vitamin B12 deficiency, then it’s necessary to get your vitamin B12 levels checked routinely, as the symptoms won’t be apparent.

Treatment may include vitamin B12 injections, to be taken in rounds of weekly or monthly B12 shots.  Alternatively, many pernicious anemia patients opt for supplementing with a weekly vitamin B12 patch, which is available without prescription.

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Also read:

10 Celebrities with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

When Vitamin B12 Deficiency has you under its Spell…of Depression

Can Vitamin B12 Deficiency Cause Brain Lesions?

Images: SanFranAnnie, Untitled blue

What’s the difference between chronic pain and acute pain?  That’ a question many pain patients have when relating pain symptoms like muscular pain, joint stiffness, or migraine headaches to their physicians.  Some fundamental differences between acute pain and chronic pain involve causes, patterns, and pain treatment.

“Let me not beg for the stilling of my pain, but
for the heart to conquer it.” -Rabindranath Tagore

Pain is a healthy response, usually

The pain response is a necessary function of your nervous system.  When you burn your finger on the stove, your nerve cells send out urgent pain-inducing messages throughout your central nervous system.  The painful sensation is a warning for you to tend to your injury before it becomes infected.

Sometimes, pain symptoms like backaches, headaches, and stomach cramps occur without any injuries.  When that happens, it signifies a pain disorder of the nervous system, and finding treatment to alleviate the pain can be complex.

Acute pain causes

Acute pain usually occurs from an injury. In describing their pain symptoms, acute pain sufferers tend to describe physical sensations like sharp pain, dull throbbing, or general achiness.  Acute pain symptoms start abruptly and taper off as the injury heals, generally after a few weeks or months, but not much longer.

Examples of acute pain causes are:

• Burns
• Labor pains
• Cuts and bruises
• Surgery
• Broken bones
• Twisted ligaments

Also read: Why your Back Hurts- 7 Back Pain Causes Everybody Overlooks

Chronic pain causes

If acute pain is not treated, it may escalate into chronic pain.  Symptoms may include severe headaches, limited movement, fatigue, and debilitating muscular aches.

Unlike acute pain, chronic pain symptoms can last for many months or years.  In the case of fibromyalgia, pain is more intense and magnified by certain triggers.  Since there is no apparent injury, treating chronic pain is a matter of experimenting with various pain relievers, supplements, and physical therapies.

Chronic pain sufferers describe their pain in more emotional terms than acute pain patients do, wrestling with feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and despair.  Many describe their pain disorder as a dark entity, or an invader that has permeated their lives.

Examples of chronic pain causes are:

• Migraine headaches
• Back pain
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• Celiac disease
• Neuropathy, such as vitamin B12 deficiency and diabetic nerve pain

Also read: 15 Chronic Pain Causes and 15 Treatments (Vitamin B12 is one)

Treating chronic pain

Determining the appropriate chronic pain treatment is a process of elimination.  Your doctor may ask you to experiment with a variety of pain relievers in treating the pain symptoms, in addition to incorporating natural alternative medications for well-rounded pain management.

A strong correlation exists between vitamin B12 deficiency and chronic pain disorders such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, celiac disease, and diabetes, so it is highly recommended to include vitamin B12 supplements in your chronic pain treatment.

Popular treatments for chronic pain include:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Acetaminophen
• Narcotics (morphine or codeine)
• Localized anesthetic and nerve blocks
• Vitamin supplements, including vitamin B12
• Acupuncture or acupressure
• Physical therapy, including chiropractic care
• Psychological counseling
• Relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga
• Biofeedback
• Behavior modification
• In some cases, surgery may be recommended

Also read: Painful Tingling in Hands and Feet- What’s Up with That?

Please tell us…

Do you suffer from a type of chronic pain that isn’t listed above?  Which  pain treatments have you tried, and which have been the most helpful?  If you currently use prescription painkillers or narcotics, have you considered replacing them with natural supplements that do not cause side effects?

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Know anybody who could be helped by this information?  Please share this article on Facebook, Google+, or by emailing a link.  As always, we welcome your comments!

Read more about chronic pain and vitamin B12 deficiency:

When Vitamin B12 Deficiency has you under its Spell…of Depression

9 Conditions that Mimic Fibromyalgia and Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia- Is there a Difference?

Sources:

Acute vs. Chronic Pain

The Difference Between Acute and Chronic Pain

Images:

Maggie Smith, Ambro, stevendepolo

Is it possible to get too much of a good thing, like too much vitamin B12, or too much of any vitamin?  Experts say yes- overdoing it on certain vitamins can cause vitamin toxicity, and the damage can range from annoying to severe.  So before you down a bottle of vitamin C to head off a cold, have a look at what health experts have to say about vitamin B12 and others.

Vitamin B12- How much do you need?

Vitamin B12- What is it?

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is a water-soluble vitamin that occurs naturally in animal-based foods like beef, chicken, fish, eggs, and milk.  Vitamin B12 supports many vital bodily functions, like protecting your nerve cells, building healthy red blood cells, synthesizing DNA, boosting cognitive functioning, increasing energy, and protecting you from heart disease and stroke.

Vitamin B12 deficiency causes symptoms like fatigue, depression, memory loss, brain fog, low attention span, paranoia, painful “pins and needles,” and numbness in the hands and feet, stomach problems, decreased motor control, muscular weakness, and impaired walking.

Vitamin toxicity

According to the Institute of Medicine’s list of Tolerable Upper Intake Levels, certain vitamins like vitamin B12 are safe to take in mega doses, while other vitamins must be used in moderation.  Taking too much of a certain vitamin may result in stomach discomfort, birth defects, organ damage, or cancer, according to many published studies.

Below is a list of vitamins, including recommended daily amount and risks of vitamin toxicity:

Vitamin B12

There is no upper limit for taking vitamin B12, according to the Institute of Medicine.  That means that you can experiment with as much vitamin B12 as you like without causing any damage.  Any amount that your body doesn’t use is excreted with your urine.

How much vitamin B12 do you need? Scientific evidence suggests that even people who don’t have vitamin B12 deficiency gain enormous health benefits- increased energy and mental alertness- by taking generous doses of vitamin B12.

• One clinical study focusing on high-dose vitamin B12 found that taking 2,500-5,000 mcg of vitamin B12 every few days led to a 50%-80% increase in energy, mental focus, and overall wellbeing after only a few weeks.
• In a double-blind crossover study on vitamin B12 for treating tiredness, people who suffered daily fatigue but didn’t have vitamin B12 deficiency or chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) experienced a boost of energy, increased concentration skills, and improved mood after taking 5,000 mcg of vitamin B12 twice daily for two weeks.
• Another study on people who didn’t have low vitamin  B12 levels resulted in similar findings with varied doses of vitamin B12, from 3,000 mcg four times per week to 9,000 mcg daily.

Also read: Will Vitamin B12 Boost Energy if I don’t have B12 Deficiency? YES!

Vitamin A

The upper limit for vitamin A supplementation is 3,000 IU for adult males and females.  Health experts strongly advise meeting your vitamin A requirement through dietary sources like eggs, fortified milk, and liver, as opposed to pill form.  Unless you have vitamin A deficiency, a risk factor for Crohn’s disease and celiac disease, there is no need to supplement with extra vitamin A.

Vitamin A toxicity may result in:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Blurred vision
• Muscular weakness
• Skin peeling
• Liver fibrosis
• Birth defects
• Damage to the central nervous system
• Osteoporosis
• 18% increased risk for lung cancer, according to the Alpha-Tocopherol Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention Study

Vitamin C

The upper limit for vitamin C is 2,000 mg per day for adult males and females.  Food source of vitamin C include citrus fruits, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers.  While vitamin C is essential for protecting your immune system, there is inadequate scientific proof that taking extra amounts of vitamin C will help to ward off a cold or reduce cold symptoms.

Vitamin C toxicity may result in:

• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Flatulence
• Kidney stones

Vitamin D

The Institute of Medicine recommends taking no more than 100 IU of vitamin D per day, unless you have vitamin D deficiency.  While it is not possible to get too much vitamin D from sun exposure, taking excess vitamin D in pill form may cause vitamin toxicity.

The Vitamin B12 Patch for Energy

Vitamin D toxicity may result in:

• Rapid uncontrolled weight loss
• Polyuria (excess urine secretion)
• Heart arrhythmias
• Heart and kidney damage from excess calcium levels in the blood
• Kidney stones

Vitamin E

The maximum daily dose of vitamin E is 1,000 IU for adult males and females.  Dieticians recommend getting your vitamin E from food sources like wheat germ, sunflower seeds, and broccoli, as opposed to taking vitamin E pills.

Ironically, health experts used to advise taking extra vitamin E to prevent cancer, but have now reversed their recommendation, based on current research indicating that taking surplus vitamin E may instead increase your risk of cancer by 17%.

Vitamin E toxicity may result in:

• Increased risk for cancer
• Increased risk for hemorrhagic stroke
• Osteoporosis

Please tell us…

Do you have vitamin deficiency, such as vitamin B12 deficiency or vitamin D deficiency? How has vitamin deficiency impacted your life, now that you have been diagnosed? Are you aware of any vitamin toxicity symptoms that are not included in this article?

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Know anybody who could be helped by this information?  Please share this article on Facebook, Google+, or by emailing a link.

We love to hear from you…please feel free to leave comments, suggestions, or questions below!

Read more about vitamin B12 deficiency:

Tired of being Tired all the Time…It’s Tiring!

Diagnosing Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Pernicious Anemia: Top 10 Tests

What are the Symptoms of Pernicious Anemia- B12 deficiency?

Sources:

Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs): Tolerable Upper Intake Levels, Vitamins

Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention (ATBC) Study

Dietary Supplement Fact Sheets

Vitamin B-12: placebo or neglected therapeutic tool?

A pilot study of vitamin B12 in the treatment of tiredness

Deficiencies You Can Deal With

Images:

YaiSirichai, winnond, Toa55, zirconicusso, healingdream

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that causes symptoms similar to vitamin B12 deficiency- pain, tingling, numbness, brain fog, and anxiety.  Natural supplements to treat Lyme disease after antibiotics have cured the infection include vitamin B12 and several other essential nutrients and herbs.

How is Lyme disease spread?

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, and it is spread by deer ticks.  Anybody who lives in densely wooded grassy areas is at risk of being bitten by a tick carrying this bacterium.  Once infected, antibiotics must be administered immediately in order to avoid lasting nerve damage.

Symptoms of Lyme disease

Symptoms of Lyme disease may occur several weeks after exposure to an infected tick.  Because symptoms of Lyme disease are similar to autoimmune disorders like pernicious anemia-vitamin B12 deficiency, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome, Lyme disease is sometimes not diagnosed until after severe nerve damage has occurred.

Common symptoms and comorbid conditions of Lyme disease are:

• Red rash
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Nerve pain
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Tremors
• Stiff neck
• Balance problems
• Impaired concentration
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pains
• Anxiety
• Headaches
• Photophobia
• Arthritis
• Bell’s palsy (facial paralysis)
• Bannwarth’s triad (lymphocytic meningitis, cranial nerve palsy and radiculoneuritis)

9 Conditions that Mimic Fibromyalgia and Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Supplements that treat Lyme disease

Chronic Lyme disease occurs when people are recurrently infected by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi.  In addition to taking antibiotics to cure the infection, many chronic Lyme disease sufferers may use the following supplements to boost the immune system and relieve symptoms of pain, fatigue, and anxiety.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)

Vitamin B12 is essential for protecting the nervous system and reversing demyelinating disorders such as vitamin B12 deficiency, multiple sclerosis, and Lyme disease.

Here are some ways that vitamin B12 protects you from Lyme disease symptoms:

• Vitamin B12 helps your body produce myelin, a fatty substance that coats your nerve fibers and shields them from harm.  With vitamin B12 deficiency and Lyme disease, your myelin sheathe may become worn down, exposing you to harmful toxins that may kill or damage your nerve cells.
• Vitamin B12 also helps your body produce healthy red blood cells.  Without sufficient stores of vitamin B12, your red blood cell count goes down, resulting in decreased oxygen flow to the brain, causing symptoms of fatigue and brain fog.
• Because protein pump inhibitors (PPI’s) are often prescribed to treat Lyme disease, it is essential to include vitamin B12 as part of your treatment plan.  PPI’s interfere with your body’s ability to digest vitamin B12 in the stomach, and long-term usage of protein pump inhibitors is a common cause of vitamin B12 deficiency.
• To prevent nerve damage from Lyme disease, doctors recommend 1000 mcg of vitamin B12 each week.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

Taking 50-100 mgs of vitamin B6 each day is healthy for the metabolism, energy production, and increased healing.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid)

In order to further boost your immune system and eliminate toxins from your body, doctors recommend taking large doses of vitamin C daily.

Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)

Your body makes vitamin D3 whenever you are exposed to sunlight.  Taking extra doses of vitamin D3 is beneficial for strengthening your immunity.

GABA (Gama Amino Butyric Acid)

GABA is an amino acid that your body produces to relax the muscles.  Many Lyme disease patients find relief in taking GABA supplements to calm their nerves, treat anxiety, sleep peacefully, and prevent muscle spasms or seizures. The maximum recommended dose of GABA is 1500 mg, three times per day.

Probiotics

With regular antibiotic use, it is essential to take “friendly bacteria” in order to avoid stomach pains, diarrhea, and nausea.  Many yogurts and kefirs are infused with probiotics.  Additionally, probiotic supplements may be taken.  Doctors recommend 5 – 10 billion CFUs of lactobacillus acidophilus each day.

Olive Leaf Extract

Olive leaf extract is a natural antibiotic, in addition to having anti-fungal, anti-viral, and anti-yeast properties.  Although alternative antibiotic treatment is not recommended for Lyme disease, many people use olive leaf extract for extra protection from bacterial infection.

Oil of Oregano

Another natural antibiotic, the oil of pressed oregano contains carvacrol, a chemical which researchers believe is helpful for reducing infection.

Raw Garlic

To boost the immune system and kill harmful bacteria, many Lyme disease patients swallow one or more cloves of raw garlic each day.

Cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa)

Followers of herbal medicine hold by 20 mg of Cat’s claw, three times per day, for curing pain symptoms and reducing infection.

Please tell us…

Have you been contracted with Lyme disease?  If so, what treatments did you use besides antibiotics to cure nerve pain?

Do you currently take vitamin B12 shots for relieving neuropathy, or are you using a vitamin B12 patch?

Please feel free to comment, ask questions, or offer suggestions.  We would love to hear from you!

Spread the love…

Know anybody who could be helped by this information?  Please share this article on Facebook, Google+, or by emailing a link.  As always, we welcome your comments!

Read more about vitamin B12 deficiency:

Brain Fog: 20 Causes and Symptoms

Why do my Arms and Legs often Fall Asleep? B12 and Paresthesia

Sources:

Lyme disease- Mayo Clinic.com

Lyme disease

Immune Boosting Vitamins and Lyme Disease

Images:

Wikimedia, RambergMediaImages