If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.
Overview
Vegans and older adults are at risk.
A blood test can check levels.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayConfusion, trouble walking, or severe symptoms.
See a doctor soonSymptoms or a low test result.
Causes
Causes include diet, pernicious anemia, metformin, and acid reducers.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause low vitamin b12, or told i'm low in b12. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Vitamin B12 deficiencySee a doctor if it doesn't get better
Low vitamin B12 can cause tiredness, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, balance problems, and memory trouble.
What you can do at home
- Eat foods rich in vitamin B12: meat, fish, dairy, fortified foods
- Take supplements only as your provider advises.
Medicines
Supplements or shots, depending on the cause.
At the doctor
Blood tests check levels.
Questions you may be asked
- Diet
- Alcohol
- Medicines
- Digestive problems
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
- Blood test
Prevention
Eat a varied diet.
- Balanced meals
- Limit alcohol
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.