Patient was educated on life-style measures for individuals with history of Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia as follows:
- Poorly controlled diabetics can be at increased risk for developing neuropathy and B12 deficiency in such individuals can increase the risk for neuropathy significantly. B12 deficient individuals with coexisting diabetes must observe compliance with calorie intake recommendations, log maintenance of everyday blood sugar readings, diabetic foot care, periodic podiatrist visits, and physical exercise recommendation. Avoid environments with extreme temperatures, such as, sauna units. Observe compliance with having proper fitting shoes on always.
- Optimum oxygen delivery is important for normal function of body tissues and their ability to fight infections. Low oxygen delivery to tissues in B12 deficient patients leads to compromised function of the tissues and increased susceptibility for infections. Observe compliance with general infection control & prevention measures.
- Low B12 content, reduced oxygen pick-up, and resulting anemia lead to deficient oxygen supply to all vital organs, resulting in dyspnea and compromised endurance. Report to your physician regarding any worsening of or exacerbation of SOB and oxygen saturations consistently below 90. Oxygen dependent individuals must report any need for increase in oxygen requirements.
- Pregnant women can present with increased B12 requirements, secondary to increased biological demands during pregnancy. B12 deficiency in pregnant women can result in complications, such as, preterm delivery and neonatal death. Pregnant women must observe compliance with daily intake recommendation on B12, as recommended by the physician.
