Vitamin B12 is a mineral found in certain foods such as milk products, shellfish, poultry, meat and eggs. This vitamin is needed for red blood cell formation, central nervous system function and metabolism. People at risk for a deficiency or those experiencing symptoms of this condition should see their physician for an evaluation. A deficient level of vitamin B12 can cause a variety of uncomfortable or unpleasant symptoms, but this condition is easily diagnosed and treated.
Symptoms
A deficiency of vitamin B12 can cause megaloblastic anemia with symptoms such as diarrhea, headaches, decreased or lost appetite, pale skin color, tiredness, sore mouth or tongue, and tingling or numbness of the feet or hands. Anemia is a condition caused by an insufficient level of red blood cells, which provide body tissues with oxygen. In megaloblastic anemia, the red blood cells are larger than normal.
Other symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency include depression, weakness, dementia, weight loss, constipation, poor balance, confusion and poor memory. A low vitamin B12 level may also increase the level of homocysteine in the blood. Homocysteine is an amino acid that at high levels can increase the risk of stroke or heart attack. A vitamin B12 level that is only slightly low may not cause any symptoms.
Diagnosis
If you have symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency or are receiving treatment for a low level, your physician may order a blood tests called a vitamin B12 level. A blood sample for this test is drawn from a vein in your arm or hand. Your physician will give you instructions regarding whether to fast before having a vitamin B12 level drawn because some laboratories suggest avoiding eating or drinking at least six hours before this test.
To find the cause of your vitamin B12 deficiency, your physician may order a Schilling test. This test is done in stages that involve taking medication and giving urine or blood samples for laboratory processing.
Treatment
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, a prescription vitamin B12 supplement is needed to treat a deficient level of vitamin B12. Most people with this condition need to take the medication long term. A vitamin B12 supplement is generally given by injection, but some people may be able to take an oral form of this supplement.
People at Risk
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, people at risk for a vitamin B12 deficiency include those older than 50 and those who follow a strict vegetarian diet. Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of a low level of vitamin B12, including pernicious anemia, a form of megaloblastic anemia; celiac disease; Crohn's disease; lack of the intrinsic factor necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12; and surgery to the stomach or intestines.
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