Vitamin B12 plays an important role in the body’s proper functioning. It is essential for healthy nerve and blood cells and formation of DNA. However, Vitamin B12 deficiency has become a major health concern in recent times.

It can have long-term effects on one’s health if not addressed. Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms can be difficult to identify as they can be subtle and may not show up for years.

What is Vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is one of the eight B vitamins. It is a water-soluble vitamin. The human body cannot produce it, and so it is obtained only from animal-derived foods or supplements.

It is required for the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system, and it aids in the production of DNA and red blood cells.

It also helps in the breakdown of homocysteine, an amino acid that can cause cardiovascular problems and dementia if accumulated in large quantities.

Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

The most common causes of Vitamin B12 deficiency are:.

• Pernicious Anemia: This is an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks its own cells, including those of the stomach that produce intrinsic factor, a protein required for Vitamin B12 absorption.
• Dietary Deficiency: People who don’t consume animal-derived products such as meat, fish, dairy, and eggs are at a higher risk of developing a Vitamin B12 deficiency.
• Atrophic Gastritis: The lining of the stomach thins with age, which reduces the production of stomach acid and intrinsic factor and ultimately affects Vitamin B12 absorption.
• Gastrointestinal Surgery: People who undergo gastrointestinal surgery, such as weight-loss surgery or bowel resection, may have an increased risk of developing Vitamin B12 deficiency due to reduced absorption.
• Medications: Some medications used to treat acid reflux and diabetes can also interfere with Vitamin B12 absorption.

Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

As Vitamin B12 deficiency develops gradually over time, symptoms may not be as apparent or severe in the initial stages. However, untreated Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to severe complications in the long run.

Here are the common signs and symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency:.

1. Fatigue and Weakness

If you find yourself feeling perpetually tired, lethargic, and weak, it could be due to a Vitamin B12 deficiency. As the body doesn’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the cells, fatigue and weakness may occur.

2. Numbness or Tingling Sensations

Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in the production of myelin, a protective layer around the nerves that prevents nerve damage.

Low levels of B12 can cause nerve damage leading to numbness, tingling, and pins-and-needles sensations in the extremities, such as hands and feet.

3. Difficulty with Walking

As Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to nerve damage, it can also cause difficulty in walking, balancing, and mobility issues. People with advanced Vitamin B12 deficiency may also experience confusion, memory problems, and dementia-like symptoms.

Related Article The Link Between Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Chronic Fatigue

4. Pale or Jaundiced Skin

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause the red blood cells to break down quickly and result in pale and yellow skin. Yellowing of skin and eyes is known as jaundice, and Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause it through rapid red blood cell breakdown.

5. Digestive Issues

A lack of Vitamin B12 can cause multiple digestive issues, including constipation, diarrhea, nausea, appetite loss, and stomach cramps.

These symptoms can be caused due to a deficiency in Intrinsic factor, or a lack of digestive enzymes necessary for B12 absorption.

6. Oral Health Problems

Oral Health Problems can be an early sign of Vitamin B12 Deficiency. People with low levels of Vitamin B12 may experience burning sensation in the tongue, mouth ulcers or lesions, and swollen and reddened tongue.

7. Vision Loss

Vitamin B12 deficiency can also lead to vision loss and light sensitivity due to optic nerve damage. This deficiency can cause the optic nerve to swell, leading to blurred vision and other visual disturbances.

8. Psychological Issues

Vitamin B12 is essential for the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system, and its deficiency can lead to several psychological issues. Mood changes, depression, and anxiety are common signs of Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Research suggests that low levels of Vitamin B12 can also contribute to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

9. Heart Problems

Vitamin B12 deficiency can affect the levels of homocysteine- an amino acid found in the blood. The increase in homocysteine levels can lead to inflammation of the heart, increase in risks for stroke, and heart disease.

10. Menstrual Issues

Women with Vitamin B12 deficiency may experience menstrual irregularities such as heavy menstrual flow, painful periods, and changes in the menstrual cycle.

Conclusion

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause several severe health problems, making understanding the signs and symptoms necessary.

Early identification is crucial, and treatment such as Vitamin B12 injections or oral supplements can reverse or manage the deficiency. If you are experiencing any of the above-stated signs and symptoms, consult a physician or a health care provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.