Doctor Andreeva: a sign on the arms and legs indicates a dangerous deficiency of an important vitamin

This “unusual” symptom should prompt you to see a doctor.

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient found in many animal products such as meat, cheese and eggs

The human body needs it to make healthy red blood cells. Without functioning red blood cells, oxygen cannot be transported throughout the body.
This can cause a range of health problems.

Fortunately, B12 deficiency is usually easily treated, but until you notice the symptoms and seek help, they can make daily life extremely difficult.

But in severe cases, it can be associated with heart failure, diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. We spoke with a doctor to talk more about B12 deficiency.

Tingling or numbness in the arms and legs is an “uncommon” sign to be aware of.

“Vitamin B12 deficiency can manifest itself in different ways. Some of the most common symptoms are fatigue, lethargy, weakness, or feeling a little short of breath. Unusual signs to look out for include tingling or numbness in the arms and legs, heart palpitations, and headaches,” says physician Irina Andreeva specifically for MedicForum.

What causes tingling in the limbs?

“Because B12 is essential for nerve health, it plays a role in the production of myelin, the protective covering around nerves. When B12 levels are low, the coating can become damaged or weaken, leading to nerve dysfunction.”

How can you prevent deficiency?

The best way to avoid vitamin B12 deficiency is to eat plenty of foods rich in B12.

“Given its importance to the body, it's surprising that your body can't handle it. B12 must come from food and supplements. Make sure your diet is rich in B12 foods.”
However, this can be difficult if you are a vegetarian or vegan.

Vegans and vegetarians are at a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency due to dietary restrictions, so daily B12 supplements are recommended. If you are on a vegan or vegetarian diet, be sure to include B12-fortified foods such as fortified cereals, plant-based milk substitutes, or nutritional yeast in your diet.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause:< ul class="list-marked">

Shortness of breath or shortness of breath

Headaches

Indigestion

Loss of appetite

Heartbeat

Vision problems

Feeling weak or tired

Diarrhea

Painful or a red tongue, sometimes with sores in the mouth.

Problems with memory, understanding and judgment (cognitive changes)

Numbness

Muscle weakness

< li>Psychological problems that can range from mild depression or anxiety to confusion and dementia.

Balance and coordination problems.

Pins and needles

Incontinence .

If you experience any symptoms, you should contact your physician.

MedicalForum has previously written about the dangers of stress for heart health.

Important! Information provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first sign of illness, consult a doctor.