Other signs and symptoms of B12 deficiency
Other possible signs of vitamin B12 deficiency include:
- Shortness of breath;
- Rapid heartbeat;
- Tinnitus (ringing or noise in the ears without external sound);
- Loss of appetite;
- Change in gait;
- Irritability.
Diagnosis and treatment
Typically, if you come to the doctor`s office with suspected vitamin B12 deficiency, they begin by taking your medical history and performing a physical examination. Blood tests are also one of the most trusted methods to diagnose B12 deficiency. In this case, the doctor is going to request B12 and folate levels to be checked as well as red blood cell count and hemoglobin concentration.
Vitamin B12 deficiency treatment mainly depends on the cause of the condition.
If you are having trouble absorbing vitamin B12 or have pernicious anemia, you will be prescribed vitamin B12 shots first. Then, when levels improve, doctors may offer you a switch to oral or nasal supplements.
If you are vegetarian or vegan, you can replenish your vitamin B12 needs by adding B12-fortified foods to your diet, taking high-dose oral vitamin B12, or getting B12 injections.
