The important role of Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is to ensure the healthy production of blood cells in your body that also help your DNA cells. This essential vitamin is also necessary for the nervous system to function well and it helps prevent certain types of anemia, according to the National Institutes of Health.
This vitamin is found naturally in meat, fish, eggs, dairy and poultry. Vitamin B12 deficiency is common among the elderly, and those suffering from anemia and clinical macrocytosis, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Thus, it’s not unusual to take Vitamin B12 supplements, including Vitamin B12 shots, especially if the person’s deficiency is high.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
As Vitamin B12 is naturally found in meat and dairy products, those on a plant-based diet may be deficient in this essential nutrient. According to a study published in Nutrition Reviews, 62% of vegan or vegetarian pregnant women develop Vitamin B12 deficiency. 21-41% of adolescents and 25-86% of children whom are mostly on a plant-based diet also have a Vitamin B12 deficiency. Among Americans, this nutrient deficiency affects 6% of people below 60 years old, according to a study published in the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Also at risk for Vitamin B12 deficiency are those taking metformin for diabetes or antacid drugs for heartburn, as well as those who’ve had intestinal surgery. As a person grows older, his body’s ability to absorb Vitamin B12 declines, thus the elderly are also likely to have this deficiency, regardless of the other factors.
The most common symptoms of a lack in Vitamin B12 include:
- Weakness or fatigue
- Dizziness
- Breathlessness
- Frequently feeling pins and needles sensation
- Pale skin
- Blurry vision
- Lack of balance and coordination
- Problems with mobility or walking
- Mood changes
On average, adults must get 2.4 micrograms of Vitamin B12 per day from food intake or supplements. When a low level of Vitamin B12 is not addressed properly, it may lead to the development of serious neurological problems and other serious health conditions, such as:
- Dementia, per a study in the British Journal of Nutrition
- Depression
- Macular degeneration
- Osteoporosis
Benefits of Vitamin B12 Shots
Fortunately, a Vitamin B12 deficiency can be corrected with standard multivitamins for mild cases or high dose of Vitamin B12 pills for serious cases. Regular Vitamin B12 injections in Gainesville Fl are also effective in preventing complications, but they are not effective on people without a deficiency.
Vitamin B12 shots are doctor-prescribed and their dosage is based on your medical condition. This treatment works to raise the B12 consistency in your blood levels. Prior to getting a Vitamin B12 shot, you must also advise your doctor if you have blood disorders, kidney disease or deficiencies in iron and folic acid.
At Advanced Pain Medical Center IV lounge in Gainesville, we ensure that the patients are thoroughly assessed for signs of B12 deficiency before receiving the injection.
Although generally safe and without any serious side effects, the injections may cause some mild discomfort, such as:
- Pain and redness on the skin
- Swelling on the site of the injection
- Itchiness
- Diarrhea
Taking Vitamin B12 shots, however, may cause your potassium levels to drop. Notify your doctor as soon as possible if you experience frequent muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat and general weakness for further medical evaluation.
About B12 injections in Gainesville, Fl
Advanced Pain Medical Center is the only physician-supervised IV lounge in the area. This ensures that you are in good hands as you will need to be thoroughly evaluated by a professional before getting Vitamin B12 injections. For inquiries, contact us or call us at 352-888-PAIN.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
