What is pernicious anemia, and how does it affect the body?

Question

I recently came across the term pernicious anemia, and I was surprised to learn that it’s caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12. I don’t fully understand how it happens or why it leads to serious health problems.

What exactly is pernicious anemia, and how does it differ from other types of anemia? I read that it’s an autoimmune condition—does that mean the body attacks its ability to absorb vitamin B12? Also, what are the most common symptoms—does it cause weakness, memory issues, or nerve problems?

I also want to know how pernicious anemia is diagnosed and treated. Does it always require B12 injections, or can it be managed through diet? Are there Ayurvedic treatments or natural remedies that help improve B12 absorption?

If anyone has experienced pernicious anemia, what symptoms did you notice, and how did you treat it? Did dietary changes help, or did you need medical intervention?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Pernicious anemia is a type of anemia caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12, often due to the body's inability to absorb the vitamin properly. This occurs because of an autoimmune condition where the body attacks the intrinsic factor, a protein necessary for B12 absorption in the gut. Unlike other types of anemia, which may be due to iron or folate deficiencies, pernicious anemia affects the nervous system and can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, memory issues, and nerve problems such as tingling or numbness in the hands and feet. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests measuring B12 levels and intrinsic factor antibodies. While B12 injections are commonly prescribed, dietary changes—such as increasing B12-rich foods like dairy, eggs, and fortified cereals—may help, though they are often not enough if the absorption issue persists. Ayurvedic remedies such as certain herbs like ashwagandha and supplements like spirulina may support overall health, but they are not substitutes for B12 supplementation in severe cases. If you’ve experienced pernicious anemia, medical intervention is usually required, and adjustments to diet can play a supporting role in managing the condition.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

type of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia caused by the body’s inability to absorb B12.
Autoimmune condition: The immune system attacks intrinsic factor, a protein needed to absorb B12.
Symptoms:
Fatigue, weakness
Memory issues or confusion
Nerve problems: Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
Pale skin, shortness of breath
Diagnosis & Treatment:
Blood tests: Low B12 levels and antibodies against intrinsic factor.
Treatment: Usually requires B12 injections because oral supplements may not be absorbed well.
Diet: B12-rich foods (meat, dairy, eggs) help but are often not enough.
Ayurveda/Natural remedies: Some herbs or digestive aids may improve absorption, but not a substitute for injections.

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