Forgetfulness, unexplained tingling and numbness may sometimes be dismissed as minor or temporary problems, but they can also be associated with vitamin B12 deficiency. Neurologist Dr Priyanka Sehrawat, trained at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), has highlighted the importance of paying attention to B12 levels when unexplained neurological symptoms appear. Vitamin B12 plays an important role in maintaining the nervous system, supporting red blood cell production and helping the body make DNA. A deficiency can develop gradually, meaning some people may not immediately recognise the symptoms as being linked to a nutritional problem.

One of the key concerns associated with prolonged B12 deficiency is its effect on nerves. Vitamin B12 contributes to the maintenance of myelin, the protective covering surrounding nerve fibres that helps nerve signals travel properly. When levels remain low, neurological symptoms can include tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, problems with balance, difficulty concentrating and memory-related changes. These symptoms can have several possible causes, so experiencing them does not automatically mean a person has a B12 deficiency. However, persistent or unexplained symptoms warrant discussion with a healthcare professional.

Fatigue and weakness are also commonly associated with B12 deficiency because the vitamin is required for normal red blood cell production. Some people can develop anaemia, which may result in tiredness, pale skin, shortness of breath or reduced energy. At the same time, neurological symptoms can occur even when a person does not have anaemia. This makes it important not to rely only on symptoms such as fatigue when considering whether B12 levels need to be checked.

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Diet is one factor that can influence B12 status. Vitamin B12 occurs naturally in foods such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products, while fortified foods can provide another source. People following strict vegetarian or vegan diets may have a greater risk of inadequate intake unless they regularly consume fortified foods or use supplements. However, diet is not the only possible explanation. Problems affecting absorption, certain gastrointestinal conditions, previous stomach or intestinal surgery and long-term use of some medicines can also contribute to deficiency.

For people experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms, checking vitamin B12 levels can be one part of a medical evaluation. Healthcare professionals may use blood tests to assess B12 status and, when necessary, additional tests such as methylmalonic acid or homocysteine measurements. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and can include dietary changes, oral supplements or vitamin B12 injections. It is important to identify why the deficiency has developed rather than simply assuming that increasing dietary intake will address every case.

The broader message from Dr Sehrawat's advice is that recurring neurological symptoms should not simply be ignored, particularly when their cause is unclear. Early identification of vitamin B12 deficiency can allow treatment to begin before neurological problems become more serious. Medical guidance is important because similar symptoms can occur with other nutritional deficiencies, neurological disorders and health conditions. Long-standing B12 deficiency can cause nerve damage, and some neurological damage may become permanent if treatment is delayed.

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