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Chapters

0:00 Introduction
0:29 Causes of Pernicious anaemia
1:04 Signs and Symptoms of Pernicious anaemia
1:51 Treatment of Pernicious anaemia







Pernicious anaemia is a condition in which the body can't make enough healthy red blood cells because it doesn't have enough vitamin B12 (a nutrient found in certain foods). People who have pernicious anaemia can't absorb enough vitamin B12 due to a lack of intrinsic factor (a protein made in the stomach). However, other conditions and factors can also cause vitamin B12 deficiency.
Causes
• A lack of intrinsic factor is a common cause of pernicious anaemia as the body can't absorb enough vitamin B12.
• Some pernicious anaemia occurs because the body's small intestine can't properly absorb vitamin B12 which may be due to the wrong bacteria in the small intestines; certain diseases that interfere with vitamin B12 absorption; certain medicines; surgical removal of part of the small intestine; and tapeworm infection.
• Sometimes people develop pernicious anaemia because they don't get enough vitamin B12 in their diets.
Signs and symptoms
Apart from the symptoms of anaemia (fatigue, dizziness, etc.), the vitamin B12 deficiency may also have some serious symptoms such as
• Nerve damage
• Neurological problems such as confusion, dementia, depression, and memory loss.
• Symptoms in the digestive tract include nausea and vomiting, heartburn, abdominal bloating and gas, constipation or diarrhoea, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
• An enlarged liver
• A smooth, beefy red tongue
• Infants who have vitamin B12 deficiency may have poor reflexes or unusual movements, such as face tremors.
Treatment
Pernicious anaemia is treated by replacing the missing vitamin B12 in the body. People who have this disease may need lifelong treatment.
Risk
You are at higher risk for pernicious anaemia if you
• Have a family history of the condition.