B Vitamins: Allergies, Kidney Health, and Monitoring Needs

Questions related to B vitamins?

Hello, Doctor.
Recently, I have been experiencing glossitis and have been taking B vitamins.
After taking them, I sometimes feel a general sensation of heat, and sometimes I do not.
Is this an allergic reaction? Could it cause kidney damage? Additionally, I would like to ask about my history of taking a lot of traditional Chinese medicine (some of which may have been from questionable sources) when I was younger.
I have not had my kidney function tested in about five years, although previous tests during health check-ups were normal.
Should I have regular follow-ups for this? Thank you.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/05/21

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine

Hello, thank you for your question.
Taking any medication or dietary supplements can lead to a variety of non-specific bodily reactions, so I'm not certain if your symptoms are an allergic reaction.
However, most allergic reactions typically present with itching and skin rashes, while a smaller percentage may exhibit gastrointestinal or respiratory symptoms, which differ from your reaction.
I recommend monitoring your symptoms further.
If the B vitamins you are taking are manufactured by a registered pharmaceutical company, they should contain stable ingredients, and pure B vitamins do not affect kidney function, so there is no need for concern.
As for whether previous use of traditional Chinese medicine could impact kidney function, I suggest you visit a hospital for an evaluation.
If your kidney function tests come back normal, there is no need to worry about any lasting effects from the traditional Chinese medicine you have taken, and regular follow-ups should not be necessary.
The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2018/05/21

More Info

When it comes to understanding B vitamins, particularly in the context of allergies, kidney health, and the need for monitoring, there are several important factors to consider.
Firstly, B vitamins are a group of water-soluble vitamins that play crucial roles in energy metabolism and the functioning of the nervous system. The B vitamin complex includes B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin). Each of these vitamins has specific functions, and deficiencies can lead to various health issues.
Regarding your experience of feeling hot after taking B vitamins, it is essential to differentiate between a potential allergic reaction and a normal physiological response. Allergic reactions to vitamins are rare, but they can occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or gastrointestinal distress. If you are experiencing systemic symptoms like a feeling of heat, it may be worth discussing this with your healthcare provider to rule out an allergy or sensitivity.
As for kidney health, individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions need to be cautious with vitamin supplementation. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste products from the blood, and excessive intake of certain vitamins, particularly in high doses, can put additional strain on them. For example, while B vitamins are generally considered safe, excessive amounts of certain B vitamins (like B6) can lead to toxicity and neurological issues.
Given your history of taking various herbal medications in childhood, which may have been unregulated, it is prudent to monitor your kidney function regularly. While your previous tests have shown normal results, the cumulative effects of long-term exposure to unknown substances can sometimes manifest later in life. Regular monitoring of kidney function through blood tests (such as serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen) and urine tests (to check for protein or other abnormalities) is advisable, especially if you have any risk factors for kidney disease.
In summary, if you are experiencing unusual symptoms after taking B vitamins, consult your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend allergy testing or adjusting your vitamin intake. Additionally, given your history and the potential risks associated with unregulated herbal medications, regular monitoring of your kidney function is a wise decision. This proactive approach can help ensure that any issues are caught early, allowing for timely intervention and management. Always discuss any new supplements or changes in your health regimen with your healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your individual health needs.

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