Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a chronic autoimmune disease that leads to inflammation of the lining of joints and surrounding tissues. Vitamin B-12 is a B vitamin needed by the body for red blood cell production, DNA synthesis, metabolism and maintenance of healthy nerve cells. Patients with RA are at risk for vitamin B-12 deficiency.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Effects
Patients with RA may experience symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, fever, weakness, joint pain, joint swelling, swollen glands and weight loss, according PubMed Health. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting may cause reduced consumption of foods rich in vitamin B-12. Patients with RA who consume inadequate amounts of B-12 rich foods may develop symptoms of B-12 deficiency.
Vitamin B-12 Deficiency Symptoms
B-12 deficiency causes symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, anemia, weakness, loss of appetite, constipation, diarrhea, pale skin, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, problems walking, difficulties with balance and coordination, irritability, confusion, poor memory and depression, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Complicated B-12 deficiency can cause permanent nerve damage, psychosis and severe dementia. Patients should seek treatment early enough and also increase consumption of B-12 rich foods. Vitamin B-12 naturally occurs in animal foods such as red meat, fish, poultry, eggs and shellfish. B-12 is also added to fortified breads, cereals and processed foods. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis should ensure that they eat the recommended daily dietary intake of B-12, which is 2.4 mcg in males and females.
Vitamin B-12 Supplements
Vitamin B-12 supplements are available in forms of oral tablets, sublingual, capsules, liquid and injections. B-12 shots are more suitable for patients with rheumatoid arthritis who have difficulties eating foods rich in vitamin B-12. Vitamin B-12 shots are injected in deep muscles, such as the deltoid, ventrogluteal and dorsogluteal. Severe B-12 deficiency is treated using weekly injections at the doctor's office. Patients with improved symptoms may only require monthly injections. Patients should make sure they attend all appointments to receive B-12 supplements to avoid neurological damage caused by complicated B-12 deficiency.
Side Effects of B-12 Supplements
Common side effects of vitamin A supplements include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea, numbness and tingling of hands and feet, joint pain, mild rash, pain, fever and redness and swelling at the injection site, according to Drugs.com. Adverse side effects of B-12 injections include blood clots, chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden weight gain and unusual warmth, redness and pain in arm and legs.
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