Vitamin B12 deficiency and anemia are two very different conditions, however they can both cause similar symptoms and can be difficult to differentiate between.
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of iron, folate, or vitamin B12 in the diet, or from a lack of production of healthy red blood cells from the bone marrow. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, pallor, rapid heart rate, breathlessness, and headaches.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is a condition in which the body does not have enough vitamin B12 to meet its needs. It can be caused by a lack of vitamin B12 in the diet, as well as problems with absorption of the vitamin from the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can include fatigue, poor appetite, weight loss, and numbness and tingling in the hands and feet.
To diagnose either condition, a doctor will typically perform a physical exam, review your medical history, and order laboratory tests. The most common lab tests to diagnose anemia are a complete blood count, reticulocyte count, and iron profile. To diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency, a doctor may order a serum vitamin B12 test.
The treatment for anemia depends on the cause. If iron or folate deficiency is the cause, supplements may be prescribed to restore these levels. If vitamin B12 deficiency is the cause, vitamin B12 injections may be necessary.
Vitamin B12 deficiency and anemia can both cause similar symptoms, so it is important to work with your doctor to determine the underlying cause. With proper diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to effectively manage both conditions.