Do you feel tired all the time, as if your body's drained of the last drop of energy and find it difficult to do even the simplest of daily task? While it could be because of many reasons, perpetual fatigue is a big red flag for vitamin B12 deficiency. If you are deficient in this vital nutrient for the body, check if you've started looking pale or yellow. Another sign is feeling dizzy or unsteady, as if everything around you is spinning. Don't ignore these symptoms, because vitamin B12 deficiency is more common than you think and it can have far-reaching impact on your overall health and fitness.
Also read: Are you deficient in Vitamin B12? Here’s how to boost it
Vitamin B12 is critical for your body as it helps your nerves work well and aids the production of red blood cells that carry oxygen to your brain. The result? You stay smarter and sharper! You can get plenty of this vital vitamin from eating animal foods like meat, fish, and dairy.
Here’s what happens when our bodies run low on this vital nutrient:
Constant fatigue: If you feel fatigued all the time, despite clocking in your share of sleep and rest, it may be an early sign of severe vitamin B12 deficiency. It occurs because B12 is essential for the formation of red blood cells, which transport oxygen to body tissues. When B12 is scarce, it could lead to anemia, leading to fatigue and weakness.
Pale or yellow skin: Severe anemia due to B12 deficiency is clear when you see pale or even jaundiced skin tone. Jaundice, marked by yellowing of the skin and eyes, occurs when red blood cell production falters, leading to a buildup of bilirubin.
Also read: Feel tired most of the time? Check your vitamin D levels
Shortness of breath: Breathlessness, also known as dyspnea, refers to the sensation of shortness of breath, particularly during mild physical exertion. This is because of the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, a consequence of B12-deficiency anemia.
Persistent dizziness/ lightheadedness: Chronic dizziness or a feeling of unsteadiness when walking may result from compromised neurological function due to vitamin B12 deficiency. This, in medical terms, is called Vertigo.
Also read: 7 health signs you should not ignore, starting with the urge to eat ice
Tingling sensations or numbness: If you feel the notorious pins and needles’ sensation, along with tingling or numbness in the extremities, it is a neurological symptom of B12 deficiency. This occurs due to nerve damage resulting from inadequate B12 levels.
Cognitive impairment and memory issues: Cognitive problems, including memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, and brain fog, have been linked to vitamin B12 deficiency. These issues may arise due to the impact of B12 on nerve cells and brain function.
Mood swings: Emotional disturbances such as depression, anxiety, irritability, and even psychosis can be associated with low vitamin B12 levels. B12 plays a role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation.
Blurred or distorted vision: Visual disturbances as well as optic nerve damage, can result from untreated B12 deficiency. The optic nerve relies on B12 for its proper function, and a deficiency can lead to vision problems.
Painful mouth ulcers: Mouth ulcers or inflammation of the tongue, known as stomatitis or glossitis, can be indicators of B12 deficiency. These symptoms occur because B12 deficiency affects the oral mucosa.
Megaloblastic anaemia: A severe deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to megaloblastic anaemia, characterised by enlarged, irregularly shaped red blood cells. This condition can give rise to fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms mentioned earlier.
Importance of proper diagnosis
Maintaining a balanced diet rich in B12-containing foods like meat, fish, dairy products, and fortified cereals can help prevent deficiency. In some cases, B12 supplements may be recommended to address the deficiency effectively. However, it's crucial to follow medical guidance for proper diagnosis and management. If you experience these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately to ensure the best possible care. Vitamin B12 deficiency can have serious health consequences if left untreated.
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