Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
 |
| Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment |
Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough vitamin B12, a nutrient that is essential for red blood cell production. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's tissues, so when there are not enough of them, the body can experience a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
The symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia can be divided into two categories: neurological symptoms and non-neurological symptoms.
Neurological symptoms are caused by damage to the nervous system, which can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- A sensation of pins and needles in the digits of the upper and lower extremities.
- Weakness in the legs
- Difficulty walking
- Difficulty balancing
- Problems with coordination
- Vision problems
- Depression
- Memory problems
Non-neurological symptoms are caused by a lack of oxygen in the body, which can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Pale skin
- Chest pain
- Heart palpitations
- Confusion
- Diarrhea
Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
There are several causes of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, including:
- Inadequate intake: Vitamin B12 is found in animal products, such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. Vegans and vegetarians are at increased risk of vitamin B12 deficiency due to the lack of animal-based foods in their diet.
- Malabsorption: Vitamin B12 is absorbed in the small intestine, but certain conditions, such as pernicious anemia, can interfere with this process.
- Increased demand: Certain conditions, such as pregnancy and lactation, can increase the body's need for vitamin B12.
Treatment for Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
The treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency anemia depends on the underlying cause. In most cases, treatment involves taking oral or injectable vitamin B12 supplements.
Prevention of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
The best way to prevent vitamin B12 deficiency anemia is to eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of animal products. If you are at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency, you may want to talk to your doctor about taking a supplement.
Additional Information
- Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common condition, especially in adults over the age of 65.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency can be serious, but it is usually treatable.
- If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, talk to your doctor.