Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause symptoms like persistent fatigue, numbness, memory issues, mood changes, and pale skin. Recognizing these signs early is important to prevent long-term nerve and cognitive damage, and testing is recommended if multiple symptoms are present.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common but often overlooked condition that can cause fatigue, mood swings, memory issues, and nerve problems, especially among vegetarians, vegans, and older adults. It mimics symptoms of depression and ageing but can be easily corrected through diet, supplements, and medical testing if detected early.
A Hyderabad neurologist highlights that persistent forgetfulness and mood swings in a young vegetarian IT professional were caused by a severe Vitamin B12 deficiency, which was successfully treated with supplements, emphasizing the importance of awareness and early diagnosis especially among vegetarians.
A 36-year-old woman developed an unusual craving for bleach due to a vitamin B12 deficiency caused by an autoimmune disorder, highlighting the importance of psychiatric evaluation in complex medical cases involving pica and toxic substance cravings.
A reader asks if using milk of magnesia as a deodorant could harm the kidneys, but the topic has not been adequately studied. Another reader's uncle developed a severe vitamin B12 deficiency after taking omeprazole for years, which hindered his ability to absorb the vitamin. Additionally, a reader found success in treating what was assumed to be nail fungus with over-the-counter antibiotic cream.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can have a significant impact on the nervous system, leading to various symptoms. Neurological symptoms, such as paresthesia (tingling or numbness), ataxia (lack of coordination), myelopathy (spinal compression), tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and poor balance, are common signs of vitamin B12 deficiency. It is important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment if experiencing these symptoms.
Chronic use of nitrous oxide, commonly known as "laughing gas," can lead to serious neurological issues caused by a functional vitamin B12 deficiency. Symptoms include spinal cord damage, nerve damage, and behavioral abnormalities. Medical professionals are advised to inquire about nitrous oxide use in patients presenting symptoms suggestive of vitamin B12 deficiency.
A case report has highlighted the association between cobalamin (vitamin B12) deficiency and psychotic symptoms in a patient with celiac disease. The 75-year-old woman presented with auditory hallucinations, persecutory delusions, thought broadcasting, and insomnia. Laboratory investigations detected mild anemia and cobalamin deficiency, but were unremarkable for other causes of psychosis. After starting olanzapine and cobalamin replacement, she had a good clinical response with full remission of delusions in 5 days. She remained symptom-free at several follow-up assessments with her community mental health team and maintained normal cobalamin levels as monitored by her primary care team.