Niacin, or vitamin B-3, is an essential nutrient for your circulation and nerve function. Having too much or too little can result in symptoms in various parts of your body, but nerve damage is not a common side effect. Discuss the proper intake of niacin with your doctor, and let him know if you experience any symptoms of an overdose or a deficiency. If you suspect you have nerve damage, seek medical attention.
What Niacin Does
The primary purpose of niacin is to aid your digestive system, skin and nerves in working properly. It also works with the other B vitamins to turn what you eat into energy, and this is important for your nervous system as well. Vitamin B-3 aids in the production of various hormones and improves your circulation, and it can also reduce the amount of cholesterol in your blood. By eating a nutritious diet, you can meet the recommended dietary allowance or RDA for niacin, which is 16 mg for men and 14 mg for women, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Too Much Niacin
Even if it does not directly lead to nerve damage, ingesting too much niacin can have dangerous side effects. High intake, which is defined as more than 50 mg a day, can cause liver damage, peptic ulcers and skin rashes, and it can raise your blood glucose levels as well. Niacin supplements can also cause flushed, burning and tingling skin, particularly on your face and chest. Finally, ingesting too much of one of the B vitamins can result in imbalances of the others, and this in turn can cause additional side effects.
Not Enough Niacin
A niacin deficiency is rare in the United States, unless you are an alcoholic, as alcohol can decrease your blood levels of the vitamin. Even a mild deficiency in B-3 can cause symptoms, such as heartburn, canker sores, depression and vomiting. If the deficiency becomes severe, you may develop a condition known as pellagra, the symptoms of which include cracked skin, diarrhea, a burning sensation in your mouth, a red, swollen tongue and dementia. Treatment for this condition typically involves taking niacin supplements and eating a balanced diet.
Additional Considerations
Never exceed the RDA of niacin or any vitamin without your doctor's approval. She may prescribe large doses of the vitamin to treat certain conditions, such as high cholesterol; in that event, follow her instructions for dosing carefully. If you are concerned about your niacin intake or believe you have developed nerve damage, see your health care provider, rather than attempting to self-diagnose.
