Could It Be B12?: An Epidemic of Misdiagnoses [Paperback]

I have just started reading this book but have already arranged to have myself and my 88 year old Mom tested for B12 deficiency. We both have some of the symptoms this deficiency may cause.

The author who is an emergency room nurse diagnosed herself with this deficiency when doctors could not find the answer to her problems.
As a result, the book review says she is passionate about the need to educate the public about the dangerous consequences of this hidden and all-too-common disease.

Please read this book's description and if you or a loved one has any of the symptoms go for PROPER testing as it could save your/your loved ones life. Don't be like the many people who are misdiagnosed and then live with the devastating effects of B12 deficiency. Since B12 is not properly absorbed into the body by some people shots could be required for proper absorption into our system but the cost of these shots is only about $15. monthly. That is a lot less expensive then dealing with Alzheimer's disease, depression, anemia, unsteadiness or tingling of your feet, etc.

I think everyone with medical problems should read this book to be aware of this vitamin and how important it is to our quality of life. Even young children can have the deficiency. We have to be educated and be concerned for our health and if the doctor's are not aware of this deficiency we should not shy away from insisting on being properly tested.

I purchased this book because my dog is actually B12 deficient due to a pancreatic disorder. I give my dog oral supplements that include intrinsic factor - i.e. they are much much more effective than any B12 supplements you can buy at your drug store. I started researching B12 and became fascinated with the many ways a B12 deficiency manifests itself in the human animal. I stumbled across this book on Amazon and purchased it. This is an amazing reference that allows a person to determine if they might have a B12 deficiency or possibly in a loved one. Included in the book is an extensive list of symptoms. Bearing in mind that symptoms are also results of a deficiency and many are very serious and need treating before permanent damage is done. Symptoms are ALL of those things we are too quick to attribute to "getting older". There is a list of medications that can contribute to deficiency and a list of risk factors for deficiency. The book also discusses the exact route of B12 absorption and what many things along the way can go wrong. Also discussed are the various testing methods for measuring B12. Case studies are given...examples of people with horrible diagnoses that ended up being a B12 deficiency. In some cases, these people are permanently affected because they weren't diagnosed in time. People who end up in an Alzheimer's ward that could have been cured had a B12 deficiency been diagnosed in time. People in wheelchairs with neuropathies caused by B12 deficiency. Simple medical tests can be given that can prevent this illness and possibly much of the serious medical illnesses that drain our resources, both financially, emotionally and physically. As the review states, this is a book that should be on every Doctor's reference shelf. A must read for anyone working or living with an aging population or in any sort of medical profession. Also a must read for anyone wanting to take charge of their own health care.

As a moderator for the Pernicious Anaemia Society forum, Sally Pacholok's book is one that I recommend all the time to new members. B12 deficiency is often overlooked by our doctors, instead the focus on symptoms that occur with B12 deficiency often leads to a misdiagnosis of MS or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Each chapter is filled with important information about B12 deficiency that everyone needs to know. From infants to teens, to adults to seniors, the information in these chapters makes it easier to know what to look for if you suspect you or a loved one may be deficient in Vitamin B12. An early diagnosis is essential to prevent severe neurological damage.

Pat Kornic
Canada Delegate Pernicious Anaemia Society