Q: Which doctor should you consult for pernicious anemia?
A: In case of suspicion of pernicious anemia consulting the primary care physician will help in diagnosing the condition. The physician will be able to diagnose the condition following a medical history, physical examination and routine tests. Specialist referral will be required to rule out other conditions.
Q: Can pernicious anemia be fatal?
A: The complications of pernicious anemia if left untreated can lead to cancerous conditions. This can prove fatal to the patient. Hence early detection and treatment is essential for this condition.
Q: Does pernicious anemia affect only the elderly?
A: The condition is more commonly seen in the elderly but it is seen in infants also, the condition is then called juvenile pernicious anemia. It is due to the lack of intrinsic factor in the child and the symptoms can be seen as early as 4 months.
Q: What is Megaloblastic Anemia?
A: This is a condition where the bone marrow produces large immature and unhealthy red blood cells which do not function efficiently in the transport and supply of oxygen to the body. The condition is seen in disorders that cause vitamin B12 deficiency in the body.
