Vitamin B12 deficiency can be missed because its symptoms may develop slowly and overlap with many other conditions. Some signs that can occur include:
- Persistent tiredness or weakness
- Pale skin or a sore, smooth tongue
- Numbness, tingling, or “pins and needles” in the hands or feet
- Balance problems or difficulty walking
- Memory problems, trouble concentrating, or confusion
- Mood changes such as irritability or low mood
- Vision problems in some cases due to nerve involvement
- Reduced appetite or weight loss
- Shortness of breath or dizziness (especially if anemia develops)
People at higher risk include those with:
- Low intake of animal products (such as strict vegan diets without supplementation)
- Conditions affecting absorption (for example, pernicious anemia or some gastrointestinal disorders)
- Certain medications, including long-term use of some acid-reducing medicines or metformin
B12 deficiency is usually checked with a blood test. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve dietary changes, oral supplements, or injections.
If you’re concerned about B12 deficiency, tell me your age, symptoms, diet pattern, and whether you take medications like metformin or acid reducers, and I can help you understand what might be relevant.
