Vitamin B12 is a vital nutrient critical for many functions in the body.
It is needed for the production of red blood cells, but B12 is needed for production of any cell.
B12 is also a critical nutrient for gastrointestinal function and the absorption of nutrients.
It also plays a role in neurological and psychiatric aspects of our body.
Therefore, when there is a vitamin B12 deficiency, it can cause problems in any of these areas.
Nerve problems like numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and problems walking are just some of the warning symptoms indicating you're running low on the essential vitamin.
Pins and needles
An ongoing vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to nerve damage, which can sometimes cause a pins-and-needles feeling in your hands or feet.
“Vitamin B12 is needed to help neurons function,” explains Dr Sarah Baker.
“When B12 levels are too low, neurons can’t effectively function, which leads to symptoms like numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.”
Numbness
This numbness or tingling is called paraesthesia, and it can become permanent if left untreated.
Nerve damage caused by an insufficient amount of the vitamin can also affect your balance and ability to walk.
This too can become permanent if not treated, so it’s important to mention to your doctor if the issue arises.
Dizziness
One study looked at a patient case of an 18-year-old presenting with difficulty walking.
The authors describe a slippage of foot wearing without knowledge.
The patient’s shoes were slipping off without her recognising it.
The patient also described suffering with dizziness.
After further examination it was found she suffered with a major B12 deficiency with her symptoms improving after supplementation.
Other neurological symptoms include:
- Balance problems
- Dizziness/feeling faint
- Numbness/tingling/pins and needles
- Burning legs and/or feet
- Neuropathic pain/Fibromyalgia
- Vertigo
- Tinnitus
- Sensory impairment
You should see a GP if you're experiencing symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Although many of the symptoms improve with treatment, some neurological problems caused by the condition can be irreversible if left untreated, the health body warns.
"The longer the condition goes untreated, the higher the chance of permanent damage," it adds.
