2023-10-10 18:00:00
Fatima Khalil wrote Tuesday, October 10, 2023 09:00 PM
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various body functions. It is necessary for the production of red blood cells, maintaining a healthy nervous system, and DNA synthesis. Since our bodies cannot produce vitamin B12 on their own, we must We have to get it through our diet or…Nutritional supplementsAccording to what was published by the Times of India website.
What is the normal level of vitamin B12 in the human body?
Vitamin B12 levels above 300 pg/ml are considered normal. When vitamin B12 levels drop significantly, it can lead to a condition known as vitamin B12 deficiency. This deficiency can have serious health consequences if left untreated.
Signs of severe deficiency of vitamin B12 in the body
Fatigue and weakness
One of the most common early signs of vitamin B12 deficiency is fatigue and weakness. This happens because vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in the production of red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body.
Without enough red blood cells, tissues and organs do not receive an adequate supply of oxygen, leading to fatigue and weakness. Individuals with low vitamin B12 levels often describe feeling tired, sluggish, and lacking energy, even after a good night’s sleep.
Cognitive decline
Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system, including the brain.
Low levels can affect Vitamin B12 It affects cognitive functions, leading to difficulties concentrating, memory problems, and mental confusion.
In severe cases, this may lead to mood disorders, such as depression and irritability. These cognitive impairments can impact daily life and overall health, making it necessary to treat vitamin B12 deficiency immediately.
Numbness and tingling
Another characteristic sign of very low vitamin B12 levels is numbness and tingling sensations, especially in the hands and feet.
This condition, known as peripheral neuropathy, occurs because a vitamin B12 deficiency can damage the myelin that surrounds nerves. As a result, the nerves cannot transmit signals properly, resulting in a tingling, burning, or numbness sensation.
Over time, this can develop into more serious symptoms, such as muscle weakness and difficulty with balance and coordination.
Vision problems
In some cases, vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to vision problems.
Optic neuropathy, a condition in which the optic nerve is damaged, can be caused by low levels of vitamin B12. This can lead to blurred or disturbed vision, difficulty distinguishing colors, and even vision loss in severe cases.
Although it is not a common symptom, it underscores the importance of treating vitamin B12 deficiency immediately to prevent further complications.
Mouth ulcers
Oral symptoms can also be an indicator of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Individuals with low levels of vitamin B12 may suffer from glossitis. This can make the tongue appear swollen, red, and shiny.
In addition, mouth ulcers or ulcers may develop, causing discomfort and pain while eating or speaking. These oral symptoms can be among the early signs of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Difficulty walking and balance problems
As vitamin B12 deficiency progresses, it can lead to neurological symptoms, including difficulty walking and problems with balance. This is caused by damage to the nerves that control muscle movement and coordination. Individuals with severe vitamin B12 deficiency may experience muscle weakness, stumbling, and an unsteady gait, making them more susceptible to falls and injuries.
Pale skin
Vitamin B12 deficiency can also manifest in changes in the appearance of the skin.
Anemia resulting from a vitamin B12 deficiency can cause pale or yellow skin. This occurs because red blood cells produced in the absence of sufficient vitamin B12 can be abnormally large and fragile, leading to their premature breakdown and a decreased number of healthy red blood cells in the body. blood circulation and this can give the skin a pale or yellowish colour.
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