The contribution of vitamin B12 to the body is invaluable. Among other things, it helps make red blood cells and keeps your nervous system functioning efficiently. Having consistently low B12 levels therefore hammers your body, causing ataxia which in turn affects a number of parts of the body. What should you watch out for?
According to the NHS, a lack of vitamin B12 can cause neurological problems, which affect your nervous system, such as:
- Sight problems
- Memory loss
- Have ants
- Loss of physical coordination (ataxia), which can affect your whole body and cause difficulty speaking or walking
- Damage to parts of the nervous system, especially in the legs.
READ MORE: B12 deficiency: two warning signs on your head and ears that you are lacking in nutrientst
In a study published in the National Health Library, a vitamin B12 deficiency presenting as acute ataxia was investigated.
The study examined the case of a seven-year-old child hospitalized for evaluation of acute ataxia and growth retardation, initially suspected of an intracranial mass.
Laboratory studies revealed megaloblastic anemia while an initial MRI of the brain showed no signs of mass lesions or other abnormalities.
Other symptoms of a B12 deficiency include:
- A pale yellow tint on your skin
- A sore, red tongue (glossitis)
- Mouth ulcers
- Pins and needles (paresthesia)
- Changes in the way you walk and move
- Disturbed vision
- Irritability
- Depression.