Vitamin B12 is a molecule essential for health but that the body does not make itself. Therefore, the body needs to acquire vitamin B12 by eating foods rich in this molecule. Vitamin B12 deficiency is caused either by an autoimmune disease called pernicious anemia or by improper absorption of this vitamin in the digestive tract, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. There are several different severe symptoms associated with vitamin B12 deficiency.
Anemia
Anemia is a potentially severe condition in which the body does not make enough red blood cells to carry much-needed oxygen to the body's tissues. A deficiency in vitamin B12 may cause anemia because the body requires this vitamin to make red blood cells, according to the online medical encyclopedia MedlinePlus. To acquire enough vitamin B12 to be healthy, a person must eat foods rich in this vitamin, such as meat, chicken, eggs, dairy, and shellfish. The common symptoms of anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency are shortness of breath; pale skin; fatigue, dizziness, and having little energy; a tongue that is red and swollen; and bleeding gums.
Neurological Problems
Not having enough vitamin B12 can also cause defects in the nervous system. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that a vitamin B12 deficiency may cause loss of memory, moody behavior, and confusion due to damage of the nerve cells in the brain. The Linus Pauling Institute adds that a deficiency in this vitamin can cause tingling and numbness in the arms, but more often the legs. When the nerves of the legs are affected, the person may have difficulty walking and balancing. When present for a long time, vitamin B12 supplements may not be able to reverse these symptoms because the nerve damage may be permanent. These symptoms may be associated with anemia as well, as is the case for 25 percent of people who have these nerve problems as a result of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Gastrointestinal Problems
A vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause potentially severe problems with digestion due to adverse changes in the gastrointestinal tract. The Linus Pauling Institute reports that a deficiency in this vitamin has been shown to cause loss of appetite and constipation. MedlinePlus adds that the person may suffer from diarrhea as well.
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