Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms

Fatigue and Weakness

Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the tissues of the body. When the body becomes deficient in Vitamin B12, it can lead to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, resulting in a condition called anemia.

Anemia can cause a number of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath and dizziness. Oxygen is necessary for the production of energy in the body, and without it, the cells and tissues of the body cannot function properly. Shortness of breath occurs because the body does not get enough oxygen due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells. Dizziness can also occur due to lack of oxygen in the brain.

Vitamin B12 is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, which are the body's primary sources of energy. Without enough vitamin B12, the body's ability to produce energy from these nutrients is impaired, leading to fatigue and weakness.

Neurological Problems

Studies have shown that vitamin B12 deficiency can cause changes in the structure and function of the brain, which can lead to cognitive decline and memory loss. Vitamin B12 plays an important role in the production of myelin, a fatty substance that forms a protective sheath around nerve fibers in the brain. Without enough vitamin B12, the myelin sheath can become damaged, causing problems with nerve impulse transmission and cognitive function.

Vitamin B12 plays a role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine that are important for mood, memory and cognitive function. Without enough vitamin B12, production of these neurotransmitters can be disrupted, which can lead to cognitive decline and memory loss.

Nerve damage caused by vitamin B12 deficiency can cause numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause difficulty walking and balance problems.

Mouth and Tongue Problems

Vitamin B12 is essential for the proper functioning of cells in the mouth and digestive system. When there is a deficiency of vitamin B12 in the body, it can lead to a condition called glossitis, which is an inflammation of the tongue. Glossitis causes the tongue to become swollen, red and sore, making it difficult and painful to eat or speak.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can also lead to cold sores or canker sores, which are small, painful sores that develop inside the mouth. These sores can occur on the tongue, lips, gums or inside of the cheeks. Vitamin B12 deficiency can weaken the immune system, making it easier for bacteria to infect the mouth and cause sores.

Digestive Problems

Vitamin B12 plays an important role in the proper functioning of the digestive system, including nutrient absorption and regulation of bowel movements. When there is a deficiency of Vitamin B12 in the body, it can lead to a change in bowel habits. Research has shown that vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating and loss of appetite. These symptoms may be related to a disruption of normal digestive processes, which can affect the movement of food through the intestines.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a condition called bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. This occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, which can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea, bloating and abdominal pain.

Eyesight Problems

Vitamin B12 is important for proper functioning of the nervous system, including the nerves that control vision. When there is a deficiency of vitamin B12 in the body, it can cause neurological symptoms including vision problems. Studies have shown that vitamin B12 deficiency can cause changes in the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eyes to the brain. This can result in vision problems, such as blurred vision, double vision, or reduced vision.