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What Are the Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency?

Posted on April 22, 2025

Table of Contents

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  • Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
  • Common Symptoms
    • 1. Fatigue & Weakness
    • 2. Neurological Issues
    • 3. Mood Changes
    • 4. Pale or Jaundiced Skin
    • 5. Glossitis & Mouth Ulcers
    • 6. Heart Palpitations & Shortness of Breath
    • 7. Vision Disturbances
    • 8. Digestive Problems
  • Who’s at Risk?
  • What to Do?

Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is essential for nerve function, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis. A deficiency can develop slowly, and symptoms may be subtle at first but worsen over time. Here are the key signs to watch for:


Common Symptoms

1. Fatigue & Weakness

  • Persistent tiredness, even with adequate sleep (due to low oxygen from anemia).

2. Neurological Issues

  • Tingling or numbness in hands/feet (“pins and needles”).
  • Balance problems or difficulty walking.
  • Memory lapses, confusion, or brain fog (may mimic dementia).

3. Mood Changes

  • Depression, irritability, or anxiety.

4. Pale or Jaundiced Skin

  • B12 deficiency can cause megaloblastic anemia, leading to pale or slightly yellow skin.

5. Glossitis & Mouth Ulcers

  • Swollen, red tongue (“beefy” appearance) or mouth sores.

6. Heart Palpitations & Shortness of Breath

  • Anemia forces the heart to work harder, causing irregular heartbeats.

7. Vision Disturbances

  • Blurred or double vision (rare, from nerve damage).

8. Digestive Problems

  • Loss of appetite, constipation, or weight loss.

Who’s at Risk?

  • Vegans/vegetarians (B12 is found mainly in animal products).
  • Older adults (reduced stomach acid impairs B12 absorption).
  • People with digestive disorders (celiac disease, Crohn’s, or post-bariatric surgery).
  • Long-term use of acid-reducing drugs (e.g., PPIs like omeprazole).

What to Do?

✅ Get tested (blood tests check B12 levels and related markers like MMA and homocysteine).
✅ Dietary sources: Meat, fish, eggs, dairy, or fortified foods.
✅ Supplements: Oral B12 (cyanocobalamin/methylcobalamin) or injections for severe deficiency.

Severe, untreated B12 deficiency can cause permanent nerve damage—early intervention is key! If you suspect a deficiency, consult a doctor.

Would you like guidance on B12-rich foods or supplement types? 😊

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