Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Symptoms

What are the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency?

The symptoms vary depending on the individual, the underlying cause, the severity of B12 deficiency, and other factors. In some cases, the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can be vague, take years to develop, or may not be noticeable immediately.

Some symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency are due to a decreased production of red blood cells, which are necessary to carry vital oxygen to the body’s cells and tissues. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can affect the gastrointestinal tract, the nervous system, and the cardiovascular system. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:

• Chest pain or heart palpitations

• Confusion, memory loss, or dementia

• Constipation

• Depression

• Developmental delays and failure to thrive

• Dizziness, trouble maintaining balance, and fainting

• Fatigue or weakness

• Numbness or coldness of hands and feet

• Pale skin or jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

• Poor appetite

• Shortness of breath

• Sore mouth and tongue

• Weight loss