Dealing with a Vitamin B12 deficiency could mean that your body could be fighting several symptoms at once, a lot of which you may never know correlated.
Vitamin B12 contributes to a healthy body by producing red blood cells and supporting the nervous system, the Express reports.
The Journal of Oral Biology and Craniofacial Research concluded a study in 2020 which showed that a lesser-known sign of Vitamin B12 deficiency is oral lichen planus.
Serum vitamin B12 was significantly reduced in patients with oral lichen planus when compared to healthy individuals.
How to spot oral lichen planus
The Mayo Clinic explains: "Oral lichen planus may appear as white, lacy patches; red, swollen tissues; or open sores."
According to the health body, the white, lacy patches may not cause discomfort when they appear on the inside of the cheeks.
However, symptoms accompanying red, swollen patches and open sores may include:
- Burning sensation or pain
- Sensitivity to hot, acidic or spicy foods
- Bleeding and irritation with tooth brushing
- Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis)
- Painful, thickened patches on the tongue
- Discomfort when speaking, chewing or swallowing.
General symptoms of low B12 include:
- Fatigue/exhaustion
- Muscle weakness
- Vision problems
- Pins and needles
- Sore tongue or mouth ulcers
- Issues with memory
- Depression.
Am I at risk?
According to Holland and Barrett, vitamin B12 is only naturally found in animal products such as meat and dairy, so vegans and vegetarians are at risk of low intakes.
"Older people and others who don’t produce enough stomach acid to absorb B12 properly, may also be at risk of deficiency," warns the health body.
When to see a GP
The NHS says: "See a GP if you're experiencing symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency."
According to the health body, these conditions can often be diagnosed based on your symptoms and the results of a blood test.
It's important for vitamin B12 deficiency to be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.
"Although many of the symptoms improve with treatment, some problems caused by the condition can be irreversible if left untreated," warns the NHS.
