| Pale Skin If you suffer with pale skin you may be deficient in iron, folic acid or vitamin B12. Anaemia is a condition in which the blood cannot carry enough oxygen, either because there is a low number of red blood cells or because each red blood cell is less able to carry oxygen than normal. Lots of people automatically thinks of iron when you hear the word anaemia, but this is not so. There are many different types of anaemia with different causes. Vitamin B12 deficiency is a possible cause. Vitamin B12 is needed to make red blood cells, and it is also essential for the nerves and brain. Other nutrients that are needed to make red blood cells include iron and folate (folic acid). A lack of these in the diet can also cause anaemia. Symptoms of Anaemia Symptoms of anaemia include feeling tired or faint and getting breathless easily. As well as the symptoms of anaemia, vitamin B12 deficiency may cause neurological symptoms such as inflammation of the nerves (neuritis) which can affect movement and sensation, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), colour blindness, lightheadedness, confusion, depression, poor concentration and forgetfulness. There may also be loss of appetite, diarrhoea and weight loss. Treating a Vitamin B12 Deficiency Treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia is usually injections of vitamin B12. The frequency of injection depends on the exact type and severity of the anaemia, but is usually every one to three months, after an initial two weeks of more frequent injections. Vitamin B12 injections sometimes cause bruising and soreness. In severe cases of B12-deficiency anaemia, a blood transfusion may be required. If the deficiency is caused by low dietary intake, vitamin B12 tablets may be taken. |
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