A lack of vitamin B12 can cause neurological problems, which affect your nervous system, such as: vision problems. memory loss. pins and needles.
Thus, vitamin B12 is especially awarded a function in the DNA synthesis of myelin‐producing oligodendrocytes and the synthesis of myelin.48, 49, 50, 51 The myelin sheath surrounds the axons of many nerves and serves as an electrical insulation, thereby facilitating fast conduction velocity.
B12 deficiency may cause demyelination of nerves in the peripheral and central nervous system13 and has been associated with peripheral neuropathy, loss of sensation in peripheral nerves, and weakness in lower extremities in older adults1, 14–16.
High-dose vitamin B supplements should be avoided, because they can lead to nerve damage.
The best diet for your nerves
B vitamins protect nerve cells. Vitamin B1 (thiamine) provides your nerves with energy to function, while vitamin B6 relieves nerve pain and transmits nerve impulses correctly. Vitamin B12 regenerates the nerves, protecting them from damage.
Once you begin treating your vitamin B12 deficiency, it can take up to six to 12 months to fully recover.
It's fast-acting, efficient, and leads to improvement in patient recovery within just a couple of sessions. The required doses of Vitamin B12 for neuropathy in adults are: 1000mcg daily over five days. 1000mcg weekly over five weeks.
Peripheral neuropathy is the most common presentation of vitamin B12 deficiency. Depending upon the type of nerve involved, it may present as pain, numbness, tingling, loss of sensation, decreased motor activity, or decreased muscle mass.
The reaction is thought to occur due to impurities in the B12 injection, notes Drugs.com. If a reaction occurs it is usually within several weeks after the first injection. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and airway and hives.
High doses of vitamin B-12, such as those used to treat a deficiency, might cause: Headache. Nausea and vomiting. Diarrhea.
At high doses, methylcobalamin, the active form of vitamin B12, accelerated nerve regeneration, increased myelination, and improved motor and functional recovery of injured nerves [80, 83].
Long-term vitamin B12 deficiency can cause nerve damage. This may be permanent if you do not start treatment within 6 months of when your symptoms begin. Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia most often responds well to treatment. It will likely get better when the underlying cause of the deficiency is treated.
Pernicious anemia, which makes it hard for your body to absorb vitamin B12. Conditions that affect your small intestine, such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, bacterial growth, or a parasite.
The psychiatric manifestations include cognitive changes (like memory decline), depression, delusions, hallucinations, and dementia (Engelborghs et al., 2004). The mechanisms behind are instable production of neurotransmitters and elevated homocysteine and methylmalonic acid (MMA) level in B12 deficient people.
Several studies have shown that people experiencing anxiety have lower vitamin B12 levels. One 2000 study found that men with vitamin B12 deficiency who recently lost a loved one reported higher levels of anxiety and depression (2).
Vitamin B12deficiency symptoms may include: strange sensations, numbness, or tingling in the hands, legs, or feet. difficulty walking (staggering, balance problems) anemia.
It may take a few weeks before your vitamin B12 levels and symptoms (such as extreme tiredness or lack of energy) start to improve. If you have hydroxocobalamin injections to boost your vitamin B12 levels at the start of treatment, the cyanocobalamin tablets may start to work within a few days.
People with vitamin B12 deficiency can have neurological symptoms and/or damage without anemia (lack of red blood cells). General physical symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can include: Feeling very tired or weak. Experiencing nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
Stage 1 is decreased levels of vitamin B12 in the blood. Stage 2 is low concentration of vitamin B12 in the cell and metabolic abnormalities. Stage 3 is increased levels of homocysteine and MMA and decreased DNA synthesis resulting in neuropsychiatric symptoms. Stage 4 is macrocytic anemia.
There are certain foods that also need a cut-down in case of vitamin B12 deficiency. “Some foods and drinks can interfere with vitamin B complex intake like alcohol, caffeine and processed foods, etc should be avoided completely,” Shah added.
Vitamin B12 deficiency neuropathy is a rare debilitating disease that affects mostly the elderly. However; young adults with neuropathic symptoms warrant a high index of suspicion. Peripheral blood smears and complete blood counts are sufficiently diagnostic in resource-limited settings.
B12 may decrease ectopic nerve firing, which could explain why it helps alleviate painful symptoms [14].
A deficiency in B-12 for long enough can lead to damage that isn't reversible, with symptoms like neuropathy occurring. While there is no known cure for B-12 neuropathy, B-12 can be used as a part of neuropathy treatment to help ensure you maintain nerve function.
B12 injections work quickly; they are the most effective way for your body to absorb Vitamin B12. Within 48 to 72 hours, your body will begin to make new red blood cells. For mild deficiencies, you may need two to three injections over several weeks to notice peak impact.