Patient was educated on life-style measures for individuals with history of Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia as follows:
- Chronic use of some antiseizure, antibiotic, and anti-inflammatory medications can interfere and inhibit absorption of B12 in small intestine. Individuals taking antacid and anti-GERD medications can have the acid environment in the stomach needed for B12 absorption compromised, contributing to reduced B12 absorption. Reduced absorption of B12 in the intestines contribute to the vitamin deficiency. Individuals taking medications belonging to these groups on a regular basis must avoid having these medications at the same time with B12 rich foods and supplements and observing a gap of 2 hours between them can help prevent this interaction.
- Brain and nervous tissues are highly dependent on oxygen supply for their normal function. Reduced oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain in anemic individuals, can result in headache, dizziness, slowing of thought process, depression, and confusion, which can contribute to increased risk for falls and accidents. Observe compliance with use of assistive device for fall and accident prevention. Seek therapy assistance for planned and safe execution of activities. Always, seek for caregiver assistance, as needed.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency can result in fat deposition and plaque formation in blood vessels. Plaque formation can result in narrowing and hardening of blood vessel, contributing to reduced blood flow. Compromised blood flow involving the carotid arteries delivering blood and oxygen to the brain can increase risk for stroke. Report to your physician regarding any symptoms of stroke, such as, unprovoked headache, sudden onset of speech difficulty, abrupt changes with vision, sudden onset of episodes of confusion & dizziness, abrupt onset of weakness of one side of body, sudden onset of difficulty ambulation, and poor balance.
