Pernicious anaemia is the cause of vitamin B12 deficiency, which in turn is caused by a lack of glycoprotein known as intrinsic factor. Without this compound, the body can’t absorb vitamin B12 which is where deficiencies forge. it’s needed to convert homocysteine to methionine, which is one of the most important amino acids that are used to synthesise proteins. The body uses this vitamin in a number of ways, and a deficiency can lead to a number of processes slowing down or becoming impaired. For example, cell division is slowed without this vitamin. When this slows, red blood cells are enlarged and become misshapen, which means they are more likely to be destroyed by the immune system. There are a number of symptoms which highlight a deficiency, including gastrointestinal concerns and neurological problems. Here are some of the more common signs, some of which may be mistaken for other health problems.
Incontinence
Incontinence occurs when the individual can no longer hold urine, causing leakages to occur. This can be brought on by a lack of vitamin B12 in the body.
Chronic Fatigue
Vitamin B deficiency can lead to chronic fatigue, which is a persistent feeling of tiredness and extreme weakness in the body. This is due to the effect on the red blood cells, which can lead to a lack of iron in the body and, as such, as feeling of weakness and lack of energy.
Weight Loss
Weight loss can be brought on my inadequate quantities of B12 in the body, which means it can also lead to a number of health problems, such as weakness, gastrointestinal problems and sleeplessness.
Shortness of Breath
People often notice that when they have a vitamin B12 deficiency, they find themselves getting out of breath more easily and more regularly. This is because the B12 isn’t be absorbed properly in the body, so it leads to laboured breathing.
Tingling in Fingers and Toes
A tingling sensation in the fingers and toes can be down to poor circulation or a neurological problem. Often, simply getting the correct intake of B12 can help to treat this problem.
Forgetfulness and Confusion
Because of the neurological effects of a B12 deficiency, some people find that they become more forgetful than usual, or become easily confused.
Psychosis and Hallucinations
As previously mentioned, the impact on the neurological systems can lead to mental effects, such as psychosis and visual hallucinations in the more advanced stages of a deficiency in vitamin B12.
Tremors
Uncontrollable movements in the arms and legs can be seen in prolonged bouts of deficiency. This is due to the effect of B12 on the neurological health, which can lead to the nervous system being affected in this way.
Depression
When the body has been deprived for a long period of time, depression may set in. This can alter the mental state of a person if they go without adequate nutrition. This is because the neurological effects become stronger over time without B12 to combat them. Sometimes, this deficiency can be confused with other diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Disease and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. Various tests are available to test your levels of vitamin B12 and to rule out any of the health problems associated with it. It’s vital that you eat a balanced diet that includes rich sources of this vitamin in order to combat this risk and to keep your body functioning properly. If you’re concerned about your levels of B12, or think you may be suffering from a deficiency, you should speak to your GP as soon as possible to rule out any concerns.
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