Discussing Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms and the Need for Supplementation
The user experiences numbness, tingling, and weakness, raising concerns about vitamin B12 levels despite a balanced diet. The assistant explains symptoms, significance of addressing B12 deficiency, and suggests consulting a healthcare provider about supplementation options.
I have been experiencing numb hands at night .left leg weakness and tingling. Hip feels rough.Also adrenaline rushes throughout body.
My GP suspected b12 but it came back 300 Ng/l
But for the last 10 years it was consistently at 450-480.
Now it's dropped, but still within range. My diet consists of salmon, veg, nuts, eggs etc. I feel something is wrong. Should I supplement anyway?
Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a variety of neurological and hematologic symptoms, even if blood levels are within the reference range but have decreased significantly over time. Some of the symptoms you mentioned, such as numbness, muscle weakness, and tingling, can be associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency12.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Deficiency in Vitamin B12 can cause:
- Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet
- Muscle weakness
- Neurological issues such as balance and coordination problems
- Psychological symptoms including depression and anxiety
- Cognitive disturbances like memory loss and difficulty concentrating34.
Importance of Addressing Vitamin B12 Levels
Despite your levels being within the "normal" range, a significant drop from 450-480 ng/L to 300 ng/L may still cause symptoms if you are more vulnerable to lower levels. In cases where B12 levels drop or symptoms suggest deficiency, supplementation might be beneficial5.
Dietary Sources and Supplementation
Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products such as:
- Meat
- Fish
- Eggs
- Dairy products
However, there could be absorption issues despite adequate dietary intake, particularly if intrinsic factor production is compromised. Supplementation can help in such scenarios6:
- Oral Supplements: These are generally effective, especially in dietary deficiencies.
- Injections: Intramuscular injections may be required if there is an issue with absorption7.
Should You Supplement?
Given the symptoms you're experiencing and the drop in your B12 levels, it would be prudent to discuss supplementation with your healthcare provider. They might recommend:
- Oral B12 Supplements: These can be effective for many people with dietary deficiencies.
- B12 Injections: These might be necessary if you have absorption issues, such as from pernicious anemia or gastrointestinal surgeries8.
Considering your symptoms and the change in your B12 levels, supplementing with B12 could potentially help alleviate your symptoms. However, you should consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and appropriate dosage.
Would you like to explore specific B12 supplement products available on Pillser?
Footnotes