Vitamin B12 deficiency

Overview

B12 is in meat, eggs, and dairy.

Some people can't absorb it (pernicious anemia).

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Tiredness
• Numb or tingling hands or feet
• Numb or tingling leg or foot
• Low vitamin B12, or told I'm low in B12

Less common

• Sore tongue
• Memory trouble

When to get medical care

Causes

Low intake, poor absorption, metformin, acid reducers.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Vegans
• Older adults

Possible complications

• Peripheral neuropathy

Diagnosis

A blood test checks B12.

Questions you may be asked

• Diet, medicines, stomach surgery

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• B12 level:
• Blood count:

Treatment

Replace B12.

Self-care

• Eat B12 foods or fortified foods

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• B12 foods or supplements

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• A registered dietitian can help plan meals.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Treatable.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Vitamin B12 deficiency