Overview
Vitamin B12 is needed to make healthy red blood cells and keep the nerves working, and a lack of it is common in India, especially among vegetarians, since B12 comes mainly from animal foods. It develops slowly and can cause tiredness, a sore tongue and, importantly, tingling and numbness from nerve damage that can become lasting if ignored. It is easily corrected with B12-rich foods, supplements or injections once it is found on a simple blood test.
Symptoms
- Tiredness, weakness and breathlessness
- Pale or slightly yellow skin
- A sore, smooth or red tongue and mouth ulcers
- Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
- Poor memory, low mood or difficulty concentrating
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for lasting tiredness, tingling in the hands or feet, or a sore tongue, especially on a vegetarian diet — a blood test can confirm it.
Causes
A diet low in animal foods (common in vegetarians), poor absorption from the gut, and some conditions and medicines that reduce B12 uptake.