Signs of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12-rich foods, including poultry, seafood, eggs, and dairy productsVitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that helps the body convert food (carbohydrates) into usable fuel (glucose). It is especially important for maintaining healthy nerve cells and producing DNA, the body’s genetic material. Vitamin B12 also works with vitamin B9 (folate) to create red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a low level of healthy red blood cells. Known as anemia, this condition can cause various symptoms if the body’s organs and tissues do not receive enough oxygen to function properly.

Who Is at Risk for Vitamin B12 Deficiency?

The body does not produce vitamin B12 on its own or store it. However, this water-soluble B complex vitamin is naturally present in many animal-derived foods, such as red meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, and dairy products. Most people absorb a sufficient amount of vitamin B12 through their diet. However, certain factors can increase the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, such as:

  • Unhealthy eating habits
  • A strict vegetarian diet
  • Impaired nutrient absorption (malabsorption) due to Crohn’s disease, gastritis, celiac disease, pernicious anemia, weight loss surgery, or certain medications
  • An autoimmune condition, such as type 1 diabetes
  • A family history of vitamin B12 anemia

What Are the Signs of Vitamin B12 Deficiency?

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause:

  • General malaise, fatigue, and muscle weakness
  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  • Mouth pain and tongue tenderness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Numbness and tingling sensations in the fingers and toes
  • Impaired balance and difficulty walking

If vitamin B12 deficiency is suspected based on the symptoms, the condition can be confirmed through blood work, such as a complete blood count (CBC) and a serum vitamin B12 level.

How Is Vitamin B12 Deficiency Treated?

The most appropriate treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency can vary based on the cause. In some cases, a provider may suggest dietary changes to increase the consumption of B12-rich or B12-fortified foods. If malabsorption is an issue, vitamin B12 injections may be considered. Additionally, prompt treatment of an underlying condition such as Crohn’s disease can sometimes resolve vitamin B12 deficiency.

If you have questions, please contact or visit South Tampa Immediate Care. We offer vitamin B12 shots and a full slate of non-emergency urgent care services at our walk-in clinic in Tampa, FL.