Numbness And Walking Trouble Could Be Signs Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a relatively common nutritional deficiency, but its early symptoms can be difficult to recognise because they may resemble signs of other health conditions. Fatigue, tingling, changes in the tongue, cognitive difficulties and problems with balance can develop gradually, making it easy for some people to overlook them. Recognising these symptoms can help people seek medical advice and undergo appropriate testing when necessary.

Dr Kunal Sood, an anaesthesiologist and interventional pain medicine physician, discussed five symptoms that may be associated with vitamin B12 deficiency in an Instagram video shared on August 22. He noted that these symptoms do not automatically indicate a B12 deficiency, but a combination of neurological, cognitive and physical changes may warrant medical evaluation. Blood tests can help confirm whether a deficiency is present.

One possible sign is a smooth, sore or unusually tender tongue, a condition known as atrophic glossitis. The tongue normally has tiny structures called papillae that give it a slightly rough surface. According to Dr Sood, B12 deficiency can affect rapidly renewing tongue cells, causing the papillae to shrink and leaving the tongue looking smooth, glossy, red or inflamed. Persistent changes in the tongue can have several causes and should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

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Another symptom is tingling or numbness in the hands and feet. Vitamin B12 is involved in maintaining healthy nerve function, including the protective myelin surrounding nerves. A deficiency can contribute to peripheral nerve problems, potentially causing persistent tingling, burning, numbness or reduced sensation. These neurological symptoms can sometimes occur even when a person's blood counts remain normal, making them important to discuss with a doctor.

B12 deficiency can also contribute to unexplained fatigue when it affects red blood cell production and leads to megaloblastic anaemia. People may experience weakness, dizziness, breathlessness or reduced exercise tolerance. Cognitive changes, including difficulty concentrating, slower thinking, forgetfulness, confusion or mood changes, may also occur. In prolonged cases, nerve damage can affect sensory pathways involved in balance and coordination, potentially resulting in unsteadiness, stumbling or difficulty walking, particularly in low-light conditions. Since these symptoms can have many possible causes, medical evaluation and appropriate blood testing are important before attributing them to vitamin B12 deficiency.

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