The Vitamin B12 test measures the level of Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in the blood, an essential nutrient crucial for maintaining healthy nerve cells and blood cells. Vitamin B12 also aids in the synthesis of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), the genetic material found in every cell of the body. Since the human body cannot produce Vitamin B12 on its own, it needs to obtain it through foods such as meat, eggs, and dairy. In India, approximately 47% of people suffer from Vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to macrocytic anemia, a condition that can cause neuropathy, resulting in tingling or numbness in the hands and feet. Therefore, testing Vitamin B12 levels is important to prevent any potential complications and ensure overall health.
The human body must go through two processes to properly utilize Vitamin B12 from the consumed foods. First, the foods that contain Vitamin B12 get broken down by the hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Vitamin B12 then mixes with a protein produced by the stomach called the intrinsic factor. The digestive system then absorbs B12 Vitamin B12 assists the body in creating red blood cells, repairing cells and tissues, and maintaining the myelin sheath. The myelin sheath acts as insulation for nerves and is essential for normal nerve function.
The Vitamin B12 test in Bangalore measures the concentration of Vitamin B12 in the serum or plasma—the liquid portion of the blood; therefore, it is called the serum Vitamin B12 blood test.
The fundamentals of a Vitamin B12 test are stated below:
Prerequisites: Fasting is not needed for a Vitamin B12 test.
Best Time to Get Tested: The Vitamin B12 test can be done at any time of the day.
Eligibility for Vitamin B12 Test: Vitamin B12 deficiency can affect anyone, regardless of age. So, anyone with symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency, for example, weakness, nausea, irritability, etc., can schedule the test.
Cautions Before Taking Vitamin B12 Test: Certain medications, like proton pump inhibitors, could potentially influence the results of the Vitamin B12 test. Therefore, it is important to inform your doctor of the medicines you are taking before the test.
By preparing with these steps, you can make sure your Vitamin B12 test at home or in a laboratory gives accurate results.
If a full blood count test shows low haemoglobin levels, large red blood cells, or unusual white blood cells, your doctor may recommend a Vitamin B12 test. Other reasons why you might need to do this test include symptoms such as:
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
Reduced appetite
Extreme fatigue or weakness
Sensations like tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
Yellowish skin
Weight loss
Mouth or tongue soreness
Vision issues
Impaired walking or speech
Irritability
Changes in mood and behavior
Depressed mood
Difficulty remembering or confusion
Besides these symptoms, you may also need a Vitamin B12 blood test if you:
Are older than 70 years, as elderly individuals have a higher risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency due to reduced absorption of nutrients in their body.
Are pregnant, because pregnant women require more B12 to support the growing baby.
Are dealing with digestive disorders like celiac disease and Crohn’s disease, as absorbing Vitamin B12 becomes more challenging for the body with these diseases.
Follow a plant-based diet (Vitamin B12 is naturally present only in animal products).
Are taking medications that can cause a reduction in Vitamin B12 levels in the body (e.g., medications for diabetes and peptic ulcers)
Have Sjögren’s syndrome. In this case, the risk of having a Vitamin B12 deficiency increases by over six times.
Consume excessive alcohol, as it can harm the digestive system and lead to a deficiency in Vitamin B12.
Are undergoing treatment for malnutrition or a Vitamin B12 deficiency (this test helps assess the effectiveness of treatment).
You may also be recommended to check the level of homocysteine, another marker that can determine B12 deficiency. These additional tests help doctors diagnose a deficiency and the underlying cause, providing a clearer picture for determining treatment.
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