What vitamin deficiency causes fatigue and dizziness
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Vitamin Deficiency Causing Fatigue and Dizziness
Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Its Symptoms
Neurological and Physical Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency is a well-documented cause of various neurological and physical symptoms, including fatigue and dizziness. This deficiency can lead to a broad spectrum of symptoms such as syncope, dizziness, convulsions, hypotonia, developmental retardation, tremors, ataxia, tingling sensations, paresthesia, blurred vision, and concentration difficulties1. In adolescents, common complaints associated with B12 deficiency include headache, decreased school performance, dizziness, and fatigue2.
Case Studies Highlighting Fatigue and Dizziness
Several case studies have illustrated the impact of vitamin B12 deficiency on fatigue and dizziness. For instance, a 34-year-old female patient experienced low mood, lack of appetite, vomiting, dizziness, and syncopal episodes following gastric bypass surgery, which led to B12 and folate deficiencies3. Another case involved an elderly patient who developed acute ataxia, dizziness, and imbalance shortly after pacemaker implantation, which was attributed to low vitamin B12 levels7.
Broader Implications of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency can manifest in various ways, often without the classic signs of anemia. It can cause generalized weakness, fatigue, indigestion, diarrhea, and depression4. The deficiency is also linked to cognitive impairments, depressive symptoms, and idiopathic fatigue, although the effectiveness of B12 supplementation in improving these conditions remains uncertain5.
Vitamin D Deficiency and Fatigue
Correlation Between Vitamin D and Fatigue
Recent studies have also linked vitamin D deficiency to fatigue. In a cohort of older subjects, those with fatigue had significantly lower levels of vitamin D compared to those without fatigue. This deficiency was directly correlated with the severity of fatigue, suggesting that vitamin D plays a crucial role in energy levels and muscle strength9.
Case Study of Vitamin D Deficiency
A case study of a patient with recurrent depressive disorder and multiple vitamin deficiencies, including vitamin D, highlighted the importance of addressing these deficiencies to improve symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness. The patient showed significant improvement in mood, appetite, and activity levels after receiving vitamin D supplementation along with other treatments3.
Conclusion
Both vitamin B12 and vitamin D deficiencies are significant contributors to symptoms of fatigue and dizziness. Vitamin B12 deficiency, in particular, is associated with a wide range of neurological and physical symptoms, while vitamin D deficiency is closely linked to fatigue severity. Addressing these deficiencies through appropriate supplementation can lead to substantial improvements in these symptoms. Therefore, it is crucial for healthcare providers to consider these deficiencies when diagnosing and treating patients with unexplained fatigue and dizziness.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Neurological symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency: analysis of pediatric patients*
Early diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency is crucial for preventing severe neurological symptoms in children, especially in underdeveloped countries.
Rigorous JournalEvaluation of thiol disulfide balance in adolescents with vitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency in adolescents is associated with increased oxidative stress, suggesting oxidative stress plays a vital role in this condition.
Observational StudyRigorous JournalPatient with recurrent depressive disorder, Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency after gastric bypass surgery: A Case report
Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency after gastric bypass surgery can cause neuropsychiatric symptoms, but treatment with fluvoxamine, olanzapine, and vitamin D3 supplementation can improve mood and appetite.
Case ReportThiocyanate Metabolism in Human Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency is a potential diagnosis for neuropsychiatric signs and symptoms, with early manifestations including generalized weakness, fatigue, indigestion, diarrhea, and depression.
Observational StudyEffects of Vitamin B12 Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Depressive Symptoms, and Fatigue: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression
Vitamin B12 supplementation is likely ineffective for improving cognitive function and depressive symptoms in patients without advanced neurological disorders.
Meta-Analysis
Very Rigorous JournalVegan diet as a possible cause of mental and physical disorders due to vitamin B12 deficiency in an adolescent patient
A vegan diet may cause mental and physical disorders due to vitamin B12 deficiency in adolescents, requiring nutritional and vitamin B12 status investigation.
Case ReportRigorous JournalAcute presentation of dizziness in vitamin B12 deficient old patient of cardiac disease: a case report.
Vitamin B12 deficiency should be suspected and evaluated in elderly patients presenting with neuropsychiatric symptoms, as it can cause peripheral neuropathy and impair DNA synthesis.
Case ReportCobalamin Deficiency: Clinical Picture and Radiological Findings
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause various hematological, gastrointestinal, psychiatric, and neurological disorders, with symptoms ranging from anemia to neuropsychiatric disorders.
Case ReportRigorous Journal
Highly CitedDecrease in Serum Vitamin D Level of Older Patients with Fatigue
Lower vitamin D levels are directly linked to fatigue in older individuals, suggesting implications for diagnosis and management of these patients.
Observational StudyVery Rigorous JournalVitamin B12 deficiency after total gastrectomy for gastric cancer, prevalence, and symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Vitamin B12 deficiency is highly prevalent in gastric cancer patients after gastrectomy, with symptoms including anemia, fatigability, cold feet, numbness, and dizziness.
Meta-Analysis