Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Men
Vitamin B12 is very important for men. The only problem is that the same is not produced by the human body. It is important that the deficiency of any kind is met and we take ample amount of this vitamin. Deficiency of this vitamin can lead to numerous health related problems.
What Is Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
Vitamins are important for smooth functioning of our body. It is highly important we get the necessary dosage from our daily intake of food. The food should be rich in vitamins and should supplement our daily needs. Vitamin B12 is also an important element in our existence. It helps make our DNA and the red blood cells. However, our body is unable to produce it and has to purely rely on the food we eat to replenish the used stock. If the deficiency is not met on real time basis, it may lead to complications.
What Causes Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
B12 deficiency can be caused due to many reasons. Some of the causes are listed below:
- Gastritis
- Pernicious Anaemia
- Surgery
- Heavy drinking
- Lupus
- Use of anti-acid drugs for long term
- People who are vegan can also have this deficiency
What Are The Symptoms Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
Mild deficiency of this vitamin may not show any symptoms, however, it should not be taken lightly. Deficiency of this vitamin can lead to Anaemia. If not treated in time it can lead to the below symptoms:-
- Pale skin
- Vision loss
- Depression, memory loss
- Nerve numbness
- Problems in walking
- Behavioural changes
- Weakness
- Tiredness
- Shortness of breath
How is Vitamin B12 Deficiency diagnosed?
There are various ways by which the doctors can diagnose the deficiency. One of the ways is through a blood test to check the levels of Vitamin B12. Also, people with anaemia can have a deficiency of vitamin B12. Few other tests are as follows:-
- Antibodies test
- Methylmalonic Acid Test
- Schilling Test
What Is The Treatment Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
The deficiency of the vitamin can be treated with supplements and changes in our regular diet. B12 injections are also available which can be prescribed in certain severe cases. Treatment can also involve B12 supplement pills and changes in the food eaten on a daily basis. Also Vitamin C tablets may be prescribed to deal with the anaemia due to its deficiency. Folic acid supplements can also be prescribed in certain cases. Any nerve damages due to the deficiency will be permanent. However, in most cases the treatment resolves the issue.
What Are The Consequences Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
B12 treatment is easily available, but in case the deficiency is not treated it can lead to various diseases. Some of the common ones are Alzheimer, Dementia, Cancer, Male infertility, immune dysregulation, learning disorder in Kids, Autoimmune disease, Neurological disorder, Autism spectrum disorder. Depression and many similar types of diseases. All these diseases show the sign of B12 deficiency. Hence it is important that we understand the importance of this vitamin.
