B12hiányra

B12hiányra refers to a deficiency in vitamin B12. Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for numerous bodily functions, including the formation of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and the proper functioning of the nervous system. A deficiency can arise from insufficient dietary intake, particularly in strict vegans and vegetarians who do not consume animal products, as B12 is primarily found in these foods.

Another common cause is malabsorption issues. Conditions like pernicious anemia, where the body cannot produce intrinsic factor necessary for B12 absorption in the small intestine, lead to deficiency. Other gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, or atrophic gastritis, can also impair B12 absorption. Certain medications, like metformin used for diabetes or proton pump inhibitors for acid reflux, can interfere with vitamin B12 uptake.

Symptoms of B12 deficiency can be varied and may develop gradually. These can include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and neurological problems like numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, difficulty walking, memory loss, and mood changes. In severe cases, it can lead to irreversible nerve damage. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure vitamin B12 levels and sometimes other related markers. Treatment involves B12 supplementation, either through oral pills, sublingual tablets, or injections, depending on the severity and cause of the deficiency.