Feeling tired all the time, even after a full night’s sleep? Vitamin B12 deficiency can develop slowly, so the early signs are easy to mistake for everyday tiredness. In this guide, we explain what to look out for, how testing works and how B12 deficiency may be treated, including the support available from your local pharmacy.
What Is Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
Vitamin B12 helps your body make healthy red blood cells and keeps your nervous system working properly. When levels drop too low, your body may not make enough healthy red blood cells, which can leave you feeling tired and weak.
Common causes include pernicious anaemia, an autoimmune condition that affects the body’s ability to absorb B12. A diet low in animal products, some stomach or bowel conditions and certain medicines such as metformin can also play a part. Because the liver stores B12 for years, symptoms can take a long time to appear.
Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For
Symptoms vary from person to person, but the most common include:
- Extreme tiredness and a lack of energy
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Pins and needles in the hands or feet
- A sore, red tongue or mouth ulcers
- Memory problems or difficulty concentrating
- Low mood or irritability
- Breathlessness or headaches
If left untreated, vitamin B12 deficiency can cause nerve problems that can sometimes become permanent, so getting checked early is important.
How a Vitamin B12 Blood Test Works
A vitamin B12 blood test measures the amount of B12 in your blood. It is usually carried out alongside a full blood count to check for anaemia, and folate levels are often tested too, as a deficiency in either vitamin can cause similar symptoms.
Results are read alongside your symptoms and other test results, because B12 levels do not always tell the whole story, particularly when results are borderline. You can find more detail on the NHS guide to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia.
Treatment Options for Vitamin B12 Deficiency
B12 Deficiency NHS Treatment
B12 deficiency treatment may involve injections of hydroxocobalamin, particularly when the deficiency is not caused by diet or when absorption is affected. The number and frequency of injections depend on the cause of the deficiency and whether you have symptoms affecting your nerves. If the cause is linked to diet, B12 tablets may be recommended instead.
Private B12 Injections
Some people choose private B12 injections in the UK for convenient access to a pharmacy based service. A pharmacist will review your symptoms and medical history first to make sure treatment is suitable for you.
Get Support for Low B12 Levels in Bebington
If you are struggling with tiredness or any of the symptoms above, our friendly team at The Pharmacy Bebington is here to help. Looking for a B12 blood test in Bebington or wondering whether injections are right for you? Our pharmacists can talk you through your options and help you understand whether testing or treatment may be suitable.
Book your vitamin B12 injection appointment today. We also welcome patients from New Ferry, Birkenhead, Bromborough, Wallasey and Heswall.
Frequently Asked Questions
In the UK, pernicious anaemia is the most common cause. A diet low in meat, fish, eggs and dairy can also lead to low levels.
Not always. Our pharmacists will assess your symptoms and medical history to decide whether testing or treatment is appropriate.
Many people notice more energy within a few days to a few weeks, although nerve related symptoms can take longer to improve.
Yes, but usually through fortified foods or supplements, as B12 is found naturally in animal products.
It can be if left untreated, as it may lead to anaemia and lasting nerve damage. Early diagnosis makes treatment far more effective.