This headline is partly true—vitamin B12 deficiency can be overlooked, especially because its symptoms can develop gradually and resemble other conditions.
Common signs of vitamin B12 deficiency
- Fatigue or unusual tiredness
- Weakness
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath during activity
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
Neurological symptoms
- Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
- Difficulty with balance or walking
- Memory problems
- Trouble concentrating
- Confusion
Other possible symptoms
- Sore, red, or smooth tongue
- Mouth ulcers
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Mood changes such as irritability or depression
Who is at higher risk?
- Older adults
- People following strict vegan diets without B12 supplementation
- People with conditions that affect absorption (such as Pernicious Anemia or certain digestive disorders)
- People who have had some types of stomach or intestinal surgery
Important note
Many of these symptoms can have causes other than B12 deficiency. The only way to know for sure is through medical evaluation and, typically, blood tests.
The reason deficiency is sometimes “ignored” is that symptoms often develop slowly and can be mistaken for stress, aging, lack of sleep, or other health issues. If someone has persistent symptoms, it’s worth discussing them with a healthcare professional.
