Vitamin B12 is definitely one of the most important, but often overlooked vitamins. It is critical for the entire system, as it is needed in the metabolism of every cell of the body.
Yet, if its deficiency is left untreated, it might cause prolonged blood diseases and neurological issues. Therefore, you need to know the symptoms that indicate that you lack it in the body. Here are the 7 most common ones:
- Pale Complexion
Due to the lack of red blood cells, individuals who lack this vitamin in the body have a pale complexion. The body releases excessive amounts of bilirubin, which zaps the rosy cheeks and causes a pale, yellow visage.
- Vision problems
If this deficiency is not treated for a long time, it causes vision changes and damage. Retinal damage causes a blockage of the blood vessels in the eye, and the person experiences blurred or double vision, light sensitivity, tracers, or shadows. Yet, the vision can be fully improved with supplements.
- Forgetfulness
Chronic and uncharacteristic forgetfulness might be other symptoms of B12 deficiency. These symptoms might often be misinterpreted as signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s, especially in their senior years. Yet, you can do a simple blood test to check your diagnose B12 levels and if you lack it, you can take supplements and treat these issues.
- Unexplained Fatigue
Fatigue without an evident reason might be a sign of a B12 deficiency, as the body lacks red blood cells, and the transport of oxygen is reduced, leading to a constant, extreme fatigue.
- Dizziness
B12 deficiency might also cause frequent bouts of dizziness and vertigo, as well as a feeling of wobbles when you get up too fast from a sitting position. You might experience dizziness when you walk up or downstairs. Yet, if you suffer from these issues and chronic vertigo symptoms, you should consult your doctor in order to treat the deficiency as soon as possible.
- Muscle Weakness
Vitamin B12 deficiency and insufficient oxygenation to muscles might cause sluggishness and uncharacteristic muscle weakness. In this case, you might not be able to lift a heavy purse even though you have carried heavier loads before.
- Pins and Needles
The lack of this vitamin might also cause pins and needles throughout the body. Also, numbness or the feeling of electric shock waves might be caused by nerve damage, which can be traced back to the reduced flow of oxygen in the body as a result of poor blood circulation in the case of low vitamin B12 levels.
Source: www.curejoy.com