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Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency is common, especially in vegetarians, and can cause anaemia and nerve problems. B12 is needed for healthy blood and nerves.
Causes & risk factors
- Vegetarian or vegan diet (B12 comes mainly from animal foods)
- Poor absorption from the gut
- Pernicious anaemia (an autoimmune cause)
- Older age
- Some medicines (long-term acid reducers, metformin)
Common symptoms
- Tiredness and weakness
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Sore, red tongue
- Dizziness
- Poor memory or low mood
Tests & diagnosis
- Vitamin B12
- CBC
- Haemoglobin
- Peripheral smear
- Folate level
Treatment & management
- B12-rich foods (dairy, eggs; meat and fish for non-vegetarians)
- Fortified foods for vegetarians and vegans
- B12 supplements or injections as advised
- Treating any absorption problem
- Rechecking levels and symptoms after treatment
When to see a doctor urgently
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
- Tiredness with a sore tongue and pallor
- Memory or balance problems
- A very low B12 level on testing
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about vitamin b12 deficiency. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Why are vegetarians at risk of B12 deficiency?
B12 comes mainly from animal foods, so strict vegetarians and vegans can fall short. Dairy, eggs, fortified foods or supplements help prevent deficiency.
Can B12 deficiency cause permanent damage?
If nerve symptoms are left untreated for a long time, some damage can become lasting. Early treatment usually reverses symptoms, so do not delay.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.