Does Low Vitamin B12 Level Cause Peripheral Neuropathy?

Posted on Wed, 7 Oct 2015

Question: I feel like I have multiple schlerosis About every 3 to 6 years I have problems with numbness and tingling with severe pain in my extremities. I have frequent urinary tract infections, my level is 43 % and should be at least 60%,my B12 level was 32 at a panic level several years ago and was started on 1000 mcg 1cc im q month after a shot every day for 5 days. I have had multiple episodes where I was diagnosed with TIAS but CT scans do not conferm any damage but my b/p is like 210/117, my speech garbled along with the numbness and tingling of my feet and legs. I have had multiple episodes of not walking for weeks and months at a time At this point I can walk but need to hold on to something. I have been to multiple doctors but everyone thinks I am just putting on; except one dr years ago told me he thought I had MS but it was never followed up. please help me. Iwant to do but cannot.

Answered by Dr. Saumya Mittal (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Possible neuropathy

Detailed Answer:
Hi
I am Dr Mittal.
I have read your message.
I think I can help you.
The symptoms of the query are quite suggestive of a possible nerve issue.
Neuropathy are known to cause similar symptoms as yours.
IN fact the history of low Vitamin B levels contributes as it is one of the main cause of peripheral neuropathy.
I think it would be better to test this with a NCV or nerve conduction study. MRI is expected to be normal in this situation.
Associated causes will have to be considered if the test suggests neuropathy.
I have tried to make it as simple as possible. I hope that the information contained in this message will be able to help you find the best solution for your problem. Best of luck. Dr Mittal.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar