What is vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble nutrient, also known as cobalamin. It plays a vital role in the healthy functioning of many systems in the body, including:
- DNA (genetic material) synthesis
- Energy production (metabolism)
- Neurological (brain) function
- Nerve cell health
- Red blood cell (hemoglobin) formation
Vitamin B12 plays a key role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system. It’s also important in the formation of red blood cells. A lack of B12 can lead to anemia (not having enough red blood cells), causing you to feel tired and weak.
What symptoms can occur with vitamin B12 deficiency?
Chemically, vitamin B12 can exist in various forms, but all of them contain the mineral cobalt. The liver can store the vitamin for a long time, so it may take a few years for deficiency and symptoms to develop. Some common signs and symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:
- Difficulties with maintaining balance
- Fatigue, lethargy or feeling faint
- Feeling of pins and needles
- Headache or irritability
- Mouth sores
- Reduced cognitive function (memory or comprehension issues)
- Sore and swollen tongue (may appear pale yellow or red)
- Vision changes
A lack of B12 can lead to anemia (not having enough red blood cells), causing you to feel tired and weak. Your MinuteClinic® provider can administer vitamin B12 injections for patients with a prescription.
