Recognize The Symptoms Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency is an extremely common medical problem that can present with very subtle and often vague symptoms. Despite it's prevalence many doctors fail to recognize the early symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency as well as the serious health consequences associated with it. Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs as a result of either inadequate intake or inability of the body to absorb it. Individuals with specialized diets such as vegetarians and vegans are particularly susceptible to vitamin B12 deficiency if they fail to take the proper supplements. To prevent the long term neurological consequences of vitamin B12 deficiency it's essential to be able to recognize the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.

Watch for numbness, tingling or burning symptoms that particularly involve the feet and thighs. Recognizing the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency early can help to prevent permanent damage to the nervous system.

Monitor for personality and psychiatric changes. The psychiatric symptoms associated with vitamin B12 deficiency can be as mild as irritability and anxiety or as extreme as depression, mania and psychosis.

Scan your skin regularly for unusual changes suggestive for vitamin B12 deficiency including areas of white discoloration on the extremities or raw sores at the angles of the mouth.

Be alert for changes in headache character. The headache symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can mimic common migraine headaches. It's common to have nausea or temporary visual impairment with headaches associated with vitamin B12 deficiency.

Observe for signs of memory problems. Gradual cognitive impairment, memory deficits and poor concentration can be inconspicuous but highly suggestive of vitamin B12 deficiency. It's especially important to recognize the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency in the elderly since they can mimic early Alzheimer's disease.

Stay vigilant for subtle symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency such as fatigue, insomnia, anorexia, and shortness of breath. These symptoms are all common and nonspecific but can indicate an early vitamin B12 deficiency.

*  Do your reading and be your own health advocate. Do not assume that all health care providers will be aware of how insidious the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can be.
*  If you have vague tingling or burning symptoms involving your extremities always see your doctor for an evaluation.

*  Left untreated vitamin B12 deficiency can cause permanent neurological damage.