Vitamin B12 deficiency: a complete list of symptoms from doctors

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Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble substance , which is crucial for the overall functioning of the body. In case of its deficiency, unpleasant symptoms may appear, which many people often ignore.

Vitamin B12 is used by the body to make red blood cells and DNA. However, it is not produced naturally in the human body, unlike, for example, vitamin D. therefore, it is extremely important to get a sufficient amount of this substance with food.

When B12 deficiency occurs, the characteristic signs of the condition appear. The problem is that they develop quite slowly, which is why many do not notice them and start the disease. According to experts, the symptoms can be indirectly caused by a lack of red blood cells or anemia. In total, there are ten main signs of B12 deficiency:

* pale yellow skin;
* painful and red tongue (glossitis);
* ulcers in the mouth;
* tingling in the limbs ( paresthesia);
* changes in motor function;
* visual disturbances;
* irritability;
* depression;
* changes in behavior;
* decreased mental abilities.

“See your doctor if you experience one or more of these symptoms,” the NHS said. According to doctors, the condition can be diagnosed based on both symptoms and blood test results. “It is important to diagnose and treat anemia caused by vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency as soon as possible. Although many symptoms improve with treatment, some problems may be irreversible,” the doctors added.

The best sources of vitamin B12 are animal products, as well as fish and dairy products. In some cases, it is enough to change the diet to fill the deficiency of the substance, but sometimes supplements or vitamin injections are necessary.