While B12 deficiency is not something that most of us think about, the reality is that it is far more common than one would think. In fact, one Tufts study looked at patients between the ages of 26 and 83 and found that 43% of them exhibited “low normal” levels of B12. An additional 16% were “near deficient” and 9% were “deficient”.
Thus, a full 68% of the population had b12 levels at or lower the point where neurological symptoms begin to exhibit themselves. Most of these people are experiencing vitamin b12 deficiency symptoms without knowing it. Perhaps the most surprising finding that age seemed to play no role in B12 levels. Younger people were just as likely to have low levels of b12 as were older.
Signs of B12 Deficiency
A B12 deficiency can sometimes be difficult to detect, especially since doctors often over look symptoms of vitamin b12deficiency, even when you have had blood work done. It is important to remember that some people develop severe b12 vitamin deficiency symptoms even when their blood tests in the borderline levels or low normal. When a patient is complaining of serious symptoms, most physicians don’t consider that it could be something as simple as a moderate vitamin deficiency.
So what are some symptoms of B12 vitamin deficiency?
- Pale skin – white spots may develop on the skin from melatonin becoming absent
- Diarrhea or Constipation
- Gums that bleed in the absence of other dental problems
- Concentration problems
- Rapid Heartbeat
- Inability to catch breath, particularly when exercising
- Memory loss
- Loss of the sense of smell
- Numbness in hands and Feet
- Loss of Appetite
- Migraine Headaches
- Fatigue and Low Energy Levels
Of course, if you have these symptoms, they could be caused by many things other than b12 deficiency. However, you could be experiencing severe vitamin b12 deficiency anemia symptoms so it is important to consult your doctor.
If you do have low b12 levels, most likely your doctor will recommend that you take b 12 injections. These b12 shots can be given in the doctor’s office, or your doctor can give them to you in pre-filled shots that you can take home and give yourself. Giving yourself b 12 shots is fairly simple and relatively painless. Another option is having a spouse or friend give you the shot.
Taking b12 capsules is typically not recommended for those with low levels of vitamin b12. This is because the body has difficulty in absorbing high volumes of b12 at one time. When you take a B12 pill that is 200mg, your body will only absorb 1.8 micrograms. For some people, the amount will be even less. The absorption of vitamin b12 is a very complex biological process and many people have issues with proper absorption. This is especially true as we age. Because the b12 is sent directly to your blood stream and therefore eliminates any issues that you might have with absorption, a b12 shot is considered superior and is the preferred method of eliminating vitamin b12 deficiency symptoms.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi
My mom was just told by her doctor she needs b-12 shot, she is 77 yrs old and a diabetic.
She is also a coumaden patient. My ? is will the b-12 shot alter her blood levels at all since she
is on coumaden. ????
Denise, Your mom is lucky that her doctor recognized that she was B12 deficient. As far as your question, I wish I could help but that would actually be a better question for her doctor. I am unsure as to how the B12 shot would interact with medication.
{ 8 trackbacks }