Vitamin B
12 deficiency is a factor in many health problems, including permanent nerve damage. It is easily treatable, however, with both oral and injectable forms of vitamin B
12 supplementation. Potential signs of a deficiency include anemia, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, poor memory, and
constipation. While most people in developed countries consume plenty of vitamin B
12, some can have problems absorbing the vitamin from their diets. Some of these people may include vegetarians, older adults, and people with pernicious anemia.
(Click Vitamin B12 Deficiency for a more complete list of potential signs of a deficiency and to find out who is at a higher risk for developing this problem. You can also click any of the links in the box to the right for specific information.)
