Avoiding Irreversible Damage
When 'dementia' was actually B12 deficiency
Ian(name changed)
Age 67
“My family thought I was losing my mind. I nearly accepted a dementia diagnosis.”
Ian's Journey
The Beginning
Two years ago, at age 65, my family became concerned about my increasing forgetfulness and confusion. I was struggling to remember names of lifelong friends and getting lost in familiar places. My children were convinced I was developing dementia - and honestly, so was I.
The Struggle
After several visits to my GP, I was referred to a memory clinic. The wait was agonising - I spent months preparing my family for a dementia diagnosis. During the comprehensive assessment, routine blood tests revealed something unexpected: a B12 level of 145 ng/L.
Getting Diagnosed
The consultant explained that B12 deficiency can mimic dementia perfectly. He mentioned this might be contributing to my symptoms and arranged for B12 injections immediately, given the neurological involvement.
Recovery
I was sceptical that a simple vitamin deficiency could cause such severe symptoms, but within a month of starting treatment, my wife noticed improvements. My confusion episodes became less frequent, and I started remembering recent conversations again. Six months later, the transformation was remarkable. My memory had largely returned to normal, and the brain fog that had plagued me for months had lifted.
Where I Am Now
The memory clinic discharged me with a clean bill of health - what everyone thought was early dementia was actually reversible B12 deficiency. I now receive B12 injections every 10 weeks and maintain normal cognitive function. I enjoy woodworking again, something I'd given up because I couldn't remember the steps.
Journey Timeline
Early 2021
Family noticed forgetfulness and confusion
Mid 2021
GP referral, suspected early dementia
Late 2021
Memory clinic - B12 deficiency discovered
2022
Cognitive function restored after treatment
2023
Discharged from memory clinic, fully recovered
Advice to Others
Ian's recommendations for those facing similar challenges
- Memory problems in older adults aren't always dementia
- Always request B12 testing before accepting a cognitive decline diagnosis
- Don't give up - some cognitive problems are completely reversible
- Early treatment prevents permanent damage
- Family observations are valuable - listen to them
Important Warning
- If this had been left untreated much longer, the cognitive damage might have become permanent
Key Facts
Cause
Pernicious Anaemia (diagnosed at memory clinic)
Time to Diagnosis
8 months
Initial B12 Level
145 ng/LDeficient
Current Status
Cognitive function fully restored with regular treatment
Symptoms Experienced
Tests Performed
- Serum B12
- MRI brain scan
- Memory clinic assessment
- Full blood count
Treatment
Hydroxocobalamin injections
Loading doses with neurological involvement, then every 10 weeks
What Helped
- Comprehensive memory clinic assessment
- Consultant who checked B12 levels
- Quick initiation of treatment
- Family support
Published: 20 June 2023
Last updated: 1 February 2024
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Medical Disclaimer: This personal story is shared for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. B12 deficiency affects everyone differently. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.