Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is important for red blood cell production, metabolism, DNA synthesis and healthy nerve cells. Vitamin B12 is also necessary for the development of healthy skin, hair, eyes and liver in children. B12 deficiency is common in children with stomach disorders, intestinal disorders and malabsorption conditions such as tapeworm and hookworm infections. B12 causes several symptoms.
Symptoms of B12 Defiency in Children
Children with B12 deficiency may experience rash around the lips, sore mouth or tongue, anemia, diarrhea, fever, failure to thrive, problems with movement, developmental delays, fatigue, weakness, constipation, weight loss, loss of appetite, difficulties maintaining balance, problems walking, depression and irritability. Children with symptoms of B12 deficiency should be treated as early as possible so as to prevent permanent nerve damage.
B12 Admnistration in Children
The daily recommended dietary intake of B12 is 0.9mcg for toddlers and 1.2mcg for preschoolers. Daily nutritional requirements of B12 in children can be obtained from animal foods such as beef, liver, red meat, milk, dairy products, fish and eggs. B12 is not found in plant foods. Children who are strict vegetarians are at high risk for B12 deficiency. Such children can obtain B12 from fortified breads and cereals and vitamin supplements. Children with severe B12 deficiency are treated using B12 shots. Vitamin B12 is also found in children's chewable and liquid drops multivitamins.
Side Effects of B12 in Children
Vitamin B12 shots may cause pain, redness and itching at injection site, fever, dizziness, weakness, nausea, upset stomach, headache, itching and rash. Adverse effects of B12 in children include chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden weight gain, wheezing, hives, rashes, swelling of the eyelids, mouth and tongue and chest tightness. Children who develop adverse effects after B12 administration should be rushed to the emergency room.
Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anemia or megaloblastic anemia may develop in children with B12 deficiency. Pernicious anemia is caused by low levels of B12 in the body due to the lack of intrinsic factor protein. Intrinsic factor helps the body absorb B12 from foods. Symptoms of pernicious anemia in children includes diarrhea, fatigue, loss of appetite, problems concentrating, shortness of breath, swollen, red tongue and bleeding gums.
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