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{{DISPLAYTITLE:Vitamin B<sub>12</sub> Deficiency}}
[[Vitamin B12|Vitamin B<sub>12</sub>]], also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in brain function, nerve tissue health, and the production of red blood cells. A deficiency in this critical vitamin can lead to a host of health problems. Here's what you need to know about Vitamin B<sub>12</sub> deficiency. {{pmid|28925645}}

== Causes ==

The body cannot produce Vitamin B<sub>12</sub>, so it must be obtained from animal-based foods or supplements. The most common causes of Vitamin B<sub>12</sub> deficiency include:

# '''Inadequate Dietary Intake:''' Vegetarians, vegans, and older adults are at higher risk since plant-based diets are generally low in Vitamin B<sub>12</sub>.
# '''Malabsorption Issues:''' Certain conditions, such as pernicious anemia, celiac disease, or Crohn's disease, can hinder the absorption of Vitamin B<sub>12</sub> from food.
# '''Medication Interference:''' Some medications, including proton pump inhibitors for acid reflux and metformin for diabetes, may reduce the absorption of Vitamin B<sub>12</sub>.
# '''Gastric Surgery:''' Weight loss surgeries that involve the removal of part of the stomach or the end of the small intestine can lead to a deficiency.

== Symptoms ==

The symptoms of Vitamin B<sub>12</sub> deficiency can be subtle and may take years to manifest, which includes:

* '''Fatigue and Weakness:''' Due to reduced red blood cell production, leading to less oxygen transport to the body's cells.
* '''Neurological Changes:''' Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, balance problems, depression, memory loss, and behavioral changes.
* '''Gastrointestinal Issues:''' Nausea, constipation, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
* '''Anemia:''' Characterized by pale or jaundiced skin, Vitamin B<sub>12</sub> deficiency can result in megaloblastic anemia.

Because the body stores about 1 to 5 mg vitamin B12 (or about 1,000 to 2,000 times as much as the amount typically consumed in a day), the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can take several years to appear. <ref>https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional</ref>

== Diagnosis and Management ==

Vitamin B<sub>12</sub> deficiency is diagnosed based on medical history, a physical examination, and blood tests to measure levels of Vitamin B<sub>12</sub>, folate, and other parameters.

Management includes:

* '''Dietary Changes:''' Incorporating B<sub>12</sub>-rich foods like meat, eggs, dairy, and fortified cereals can help prevent and address deficiency.
* '''Supplements:''' Oral B<sub>12</sub> supplements or fortified foods can be an effective treatment, particularly for individuals with dietary restrictions.
* '''Injections:''' For severe deficiency or absorption issues, Vitamin B<sub>12</sub> injections may be necessary to bypass the digestive system.

== Prevention and Outlook ==

Preventive measures include regular dietary intake of B<sub>12</sub>-rich foods or supplements, especially for high-risk groups. Most people with Vitamin B<sub>12</sub> deficiency improve with appropriate treatment, though some neurological symptoms can become permanent if the deficiency is not corrected promptly.

Regular monitoring and early intervention are key to managing Vitamin B<sub>12</sub> deficiency effectively, ensuring a positive outcome for those affected by this condition.

== See Also ==

* [[Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)]]
* {{SeeWikipedia|Vitamin B12 deficiency}}

== References ==
<references/>

[[Category:Diseases]]