Signs & Symptoms of Perni Anemia
Pernicious anemia, sometimes known as perni anemia, is an autoimmune condition that is caused by the body's inability to absorb vitamin B-12. This leads to a B-12 deficiency, which results in a decrease in red blood cells. Although some children are born with this defect, most people develop the condition slowly over many decades. It's rare for this condition to be diagnosed before the age of 30. Most cases of pernicious anemia are diagnosed in patients 60 or older. This article outlines some of the common signs and symptoms of pernicious anemia; be sure to discuss any concerns you may have about symptoms you may exhibit with your doctor.
Fatigue
Fatigue is the most common symptom of pernicious anemia. As with most forms of anemia, this fatigue is caused by a shortage of red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the various parts of your body, and it serves as fuel to power the body's cells. Side effects of these low oxygen/blood levels can also include shortness of breath and dizziness when standing up.
Clumsiness
The vitamin B-12 deficiency associated with pernicious anemia can cause nerve damage. This nerve damage can reveal itself in ways that patients may associate with being clumsy: trouble walking, feeling unsteady and losing their balance. As the deficiency becomes more pronounced, patients may lose their reflexes and feel tingling in their hands and feet.
Stomach and Bowel Trouble
Patients suffering from pernicious anemia may experience issues with their stomach and/or intestinal tract. Symptoms can include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea and weight loss.
Heart Issues
With fewer red blood cells available to supply oxygen to the body, the heart is forced to work harder to distribute the red blood cells around the body. This stress on the heart can cause such issues as heart murmurs and arrhythmias. In extreme cases, the additional stress can lead to an enlarged heart and even heart failure.
Mental confusion
In severe cases, the vitamin B-12 deficiency can cause mental issues, including depression, memory loss, dementia and confusion. This may be related to the lack of oxygen available to fuel the cells in charge of certain mental processes.
Tags: blood cells, pernicious anemia, B-12 deficiency, vitamin B-12, nerve damage