Vitamin B12 Deficiency Causes Which Type Of Anemia
Vitamin B12 is one of the essential vitamins required by the body for healthy functioning. It is responsible for producing red blood cells, maintaining the nervous system, and DNA synthesis. The deficiency of vitamin B12 can cause anemia, which is a condition where the body lacks enough red blood cells to function correctly. Anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency is known as megaloblastic anemia.
What is Megaloblastic Anemia?
Megaloblastic anemia is a type of anemia where the bone marrow produces immature and large red blood cells known as megaloblasts. These cells do not function correctly, resulting in a low count of red blood cells in the body. The deficiency of vitamin B12 and folic acid is responsible for the development of megaloblastic anemia.
Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency is caused by several factors, including:
- Pernicious anemia: It is an autoimmune condition where the body cannot produce intrinsic factor, which is required for the absorption of vitamin B12.
- Dietary deficiency: People following a vegan or vegetarian diet are more likely to have a vitamin B12 deficiency as it is mostly found in animal products.
- Malabsorption: Certain medical conditions such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and gastric bypass surgery can cause malabsorption of vitamin B12.
- Medications: Certain medications such as metformin, proton pump inhibitors, and H2 blockers can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
The symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency may vary depending on the severity and duration of the deficiency. The common symptoms include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Pale skin
- Tingling and numbness in the hands and feet
- Difficulty in walking or balance
- Mouth ulcers
- Depression and anxiety
- Memory loss
Diagnosis of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
The diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia involves a physical examination, blood tests, and medical history. The blood test measures the level of vitamin B12 in the blood and the presence of megaloblastic anemia. The doctor may also perform tests to determine the underlying cause of the deficiency.
Treatment of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
The treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia involves the administration of vitamin B12 supplements. The supplements can be taken orally or through injections, depending on the severity of the deficiency. The treatment is usually long-term, and the doctor may recommend a follow-up blood test to monitor the vitamin B12 levels.
Prevention of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
The prevention of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia involves a balanced diet rich in vitamin B12. The sources of vitamin B12 include meat, fish, dairy products, and fortified cereals. People following a vegan or vegetarian diet should consider taking vitamin B12 supplements or consuming vitamin B12 fortified foods to prevent the deficiency.
Conclusion
Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia is a condition caused by the deficiency of vitamin B12 in the body. It results in the production of immature and large red blood cells, leading to megaloblastic anemia. The common causes of the deficiency include pernicious anemia, dietary deficiency, malabsorption, and medications. The symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and tingling in hands and feet. The diagnosis involves a physical examination, blood tests, and medical history. The treatment involves the administration of vitamin B12 supplements, and the prevention involves a balanced diet rich in vitamin B12.