7 Signs of B12 Deficiency That Doctors Often Miss

TLDRB12 deficiency is becoming more common and can have vague symptoms. Here are 7 signs that doctors often miss: 1) Burning, numbness, or tingling in fingers and toes, 2) Smooth, swollen tongue, 3) Fatigue, 4) Slow thinking, 5) Problems with balance or gait, 6) Irritability, and 7) Tinnitus. If you experience any of these, consider getting your B12 levels checked.

Key insights

🔥Burning, numbness, or tingling in fingers and toes can be a sign of B12 deficiency, as it affects nerve function.

👅A smooth, swollen tongue can indicate a B12 deficiency, as it affects the production of myelin.

⚡️Fatigue is a common symptom of B12 deficiency, as it affects energy production.

💭Slow thinking and poor memory can be signs of B12 deficiency, as it affects brain function.

🚶Problems with balance or gait can be a result of B12 deficiency, as it affects nervous system function.

Q&A

What causes B12 deficiency?

—B12 deficiency can be caused by a lack of dietary intake, poor absorption due to certain conditions (e.g., pernicious anemia), or medications that interfere with B12 absorption.

How is B12 deficiency diagnosed?

—B12 deficiency can be diagnosed through blood tests that measure B12 levels, methylmalonic acid, and homocysteine. A smooth, swollen tongue and neurological symptoms can also indicate deficiency.

Can B12 deficiency be reversed?

—Yes, B12 deficiency can be reversed through supplementation or dietary changes. Oral or injectable B12 supplements are commonly used.

Who is at risk for B12 deficiency?

—People who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, have certain digestive disorders, or take medications that affect B12 absorption are at higher risk for B12 deficiency.

What are the long-term effects of untreated B12 deficiency?

—Untreated B12 deficiency can lead to neurological complications, anemia, and other health problems. It's important to address deficiency promptly.

Timestamped Summary

02:23Burning, numbness, or tingling in fingers, toes, hands, and face can be a sign of B12 deficiency, which affects nerve function.

02:51A smooth, swollen tongue may indicate B12 deficiency, as it affects the production of myelin.

03:33Fatigue is a common symptom of B12 deficiency, as it affects energy production.

03:56Slow thinking, poor memory, and difficulty concentrating can be signs of B12 deficiency, which affects brain function.

04:19Problems with balance or gait can be a result of B12 deficiency, as it affects nervous system function.

04:59Irritability is a vague symptom that can be related to B12 deficiency and should be evaluated by a doctor.

05:20Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be a sign of B12 deficiency, as it affects nerve function.

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