Vitamin B12 deficiency: Signs, causes, and how to prevent it

Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to fatigue, pale skin, and nerve-related symptoms if left untreated. (Image: Pexels)

Vitamin B-12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin necessary for the synthesis of DNA. It is also crucial for the formation of the red blood cells as well as for the maintenance of the central nervous system. Vitamin B-12 is majorly found in animal products, hence vegetarians are a little more susceptible to vitamin B12 deficiency than those who consume animal-based products. The deficiency often develops gradually, and can result in complications if left untreated.

Common causes of vitamin B12 deficiency include pernicious anaemia (also called autoimmune gastritis) and malabsorption syndromes like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease. A history of gastric surgery must be elicited, as it can be one of the many reasons why a person develops vitamin B12 deficiency. Strict vegetarian diets and chronic alcoholism may also influence this condition.

There are certain drugs, like proton pump inhibitors (used for acidity), and metformin (used in diabetes mellitus) that can impair the absorption of this water-soluble vitamin.

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The effects of vitamin B12 deficiency are observed in a number of systems. The reduction in the levels of this vitamin leads to impaired DNA synthesis, which results in the formation of large, immature red blood cells known as megaloblasts. The peripheral blood smear shows hypersegmented neutrophils as well.

The affected individual begins to feel fatigued, and becomes pale in colour. Mild jaundice is seen in some cases.

Reducing levels of vitamin B12 also affect the nervous system. Cobalamin deficiency causes changes in the spinal cord (the dorsal and lateral columns), referred to as subacute combined degeneration of the cord. The person experiences tingling and numbness, along with loss of vibration and position sense. Clumsy and uncoordinated actions due to lack of coordination of movements are seen.

Neuropsychiatric changes include irritability, depression, lack of concentration in daily tasks and some cognitive decline as well. In severe cases, personality changes may also occur.

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Regular intake of foods rich in vitamin B12, like meat, fish and eggs, along with dairy products, can aid in preventing this deficiency. Routine oral supplementation may be needed for some time. Early recognition and treatment can prevent complications and worsening of the symptoms caused.

FAQs on Vitamin B12 Deficiency

1. What are the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency?

Symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, mild jaundice, tingling and numbness in extremities, clumsiness, irritability, depression, and cognitive decline.

2. Who is at higher risk of developing vitamin B12 deficiency?

Vegetarians, individuals with a history of gastric surgery, those with chronic alcoholism, and people on certain medications such as proton pump inhibitors and metformin are at higher risk.

3. How is vitamin B12 deficiency diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through blood tests that measure B12 levels, along with a complete blood count and peripheral blood smear to look for megaloblasts and hypersegmented neutrophils.

4. What are the treatment options for vitamin B12 deficiency?

Treatment options include dietary adjustments to include more B12-rich foods, oral B12 supplements, or B12 injections, especially in cases of severe deficiency or malabsorption issues.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis