Too Young for This?
Pernicious anaemia at 22
Maya(name changed)
Age 24
“Being told I was too young for this condition nearly cost me my education and health.”
Maya's Journey
The Beginning
When I started university at 20, I put my constant tiredness down to late nights and stress. But by my second year, I could barely stay awake in lectures. I had persistent mouth ulcers, my tongue felt sore and swollen, and my skin was so pale people kept asking if I was ill.
The Struggle
I visited my GP multiple times. Each time I was told it was 'student tiredness' or stress. One doctor suggested I drink more coffee. No one thought to test my B12 because 'you're too young for pernicious anaemia' - something I was told explicitly.
Getting Diagnosed
After 18 months of deteriorating health that nearly caused me to drop out, I requested B12 testing myself after researching my symptoms online. My B12 was 112 ng/L, and intrinsic factor antibodies came back positive. I had pernicious anaemia at 22.
Recovery
The response to treatment was remarkable. Within a month of starting injections, I could study again. The brain fog that had nearly ended my academic career lifted. I completed my degree and have just finished my master's.
Where I Am Now
I'm now advocating for more frequent injections, as I notice symptoms returning before my 12-week injection is due. The B12 Society has helped me understand my rights and how to advocate with my GP.
Journey Timeline
2020
Started university, noticed increasing fatigue
2021
Multiple GP visits - 'student tiredness' diagnosis
2022
Finally tested for B12, antibodies confirmed PA
2023
Managing with injections, completed master's degree
Advice to Others
Maya's recommendations for those facing similar challenges
- PA can occur at any age - don't let doctors dismiss you
- Young people get PA too - it's an autoimmune condition
- Trust your instincts and push for testing
- The B12 Society has excellent advocacy resources
- Know your rights regarding injection frequency
Key Facts
Cause
Pernicious Anaemia (autoimmune)
Time to Diagnosis
1.5 years
Initial B12 Level
112 ng/LDeficient
Current Status
Managing with injections, completed education successfully
Symptoms Experienced
Tests Performed
- Serum B12
- Intrinsic Factor Antibodies (positive)
- Parietal Cell Antibodies (positive)
- Full blood count
Treatment
Hydroxocobalamin injections
Every 12 weeks (advocating for more frequent)
Additional supplements:
Iron, Folate
What Helped
- Self-advocacy
- Researching symptoms online
- B12 Society resources
- Supportive family
Published: 5 November 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.