Vitamin B12 deficiency explained persistent tiredness in a patient's account

A person who felt constantly tired was diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency, and clinicians said B12 problems can cause fatigue, breathlessness, memory and neurological symptoms and can result from diets low in B12, impaired absorption or certain medications.

A person who felt constantly tired was later diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency. They also experienced breathlessness and memory problems. Medical professionals quoted in the report said B12 deficiency affects the nervous system and can produce a mix of physical and neurological signs. Causes mentioned include diets low in B12, impaired absorption, poor appetite and some medications. Known details: - The individual reported extreme tiredness along with breathlessness and memory issues. - GP Dr Jeff Foster described common signs such as persistent tiredness, weakness, breathlessness, headaches, pale or slightly yellow skin, a sore or smooth tongue, mouth ulcers, and pins and needles in the hands or feet. - Women's health expert Dr Shirin Lakhani noted the condition is relatively common in women and mentioned energy loss, mood changes, balance and memory difficulties among possible signs. - Psychiatrist Dr Tamsin Lewis recalled a case where mood and cognitive symptoms improved after treating an unrecognised B12 deficiency. - The article lists other possible contributors, including plant-based diets lacking fortified foods, poor appetite, impaired absorption and certain medications. Summary: In the case described, diagnosing and treating the vitamin B12 deficiency was followed by improvement in mood and cognitive symptoms. Doctors emphasised a range of physical and neurological signs and identified dietary and absorption-related causes. Undetermined at this time.