The nerves in your body that make up your central nervous system require vitamin B-12 to maintain their normal function. As an adult, your blood levels of this nutrient may drop if you're unable to consume the recommended 2.4 to 2.8 mcg of vitamin B-12 daily, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Low vitamin B-12 levels may cause nerve damage, a condition also called neuropathy. Seek care from your medical provider if you develop any of the signs and symptoms of neurological damage associated with low vitamin B-12 levels.
Difficulty Walking
Neurological damage caused by low vitamin B-12 levels may make it difficult for you to maintain your balance. Poor balance may result in trouble standing or walking about normally without assistance. These symptoms typically occur in conjunction with unusual body sensations in your legs or feet. In the absence of prompt medical treatment, such symptoms of nerve damage may be permanent.
Mental Changes
Nerve damage in the brain caused by insufficient vitamin B-12 levels may cause mental or cognitive changes. If you have a vitamin B-12 deficiency, you may frequently feel confused or have difficulty remembering information. A severe vitamin B-12 deficiency may cause dementia, a condition characterized by a decline in cognitive, language or memory skills. These symptoms typically develop gradually and may be permanent, depending upon the extent of your vitamin B-12 deficiency. If you experience any of these unusual mental changes, consult your doctor immediately. Memory loss, confusion and language problems may also be signs of other medical issues, including Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease.
Unusual Body Sensations
When you don't get enough vitamin B-12 as part of your daily diet, your nerves have difficulty transmitting signals through your body. Consequently, you may experience unusual body sensations such as numbness or tingling in your extremities. These uncomfortable symptoms may arise sporadically and may persist or increase in severity if you are chronically deficient in vitamin B-12.
Mood Changes
Poor nerve signaling in the brain caused by inadequate supplies of vitamin B-12 may also affect your mood. You may feel abnormally depressed, which may cause you to lose interest in participating in your normal daily activities. Nervousness, irritability or paranoia may also arise as neurological symptoms associated with low vitamin B-12 levels. Discuss any severe or abrupt mood changes with your physician as soon as possible to ensure you receive prompt and appropriate care.
