Diagnosing a deficiency in the all-important vitamin B12 is often difficult, with doctors citing adverse changes in the condition of the hair as one of the signs of the problem.

Vitamin B12 deficiency contributes to the development of anemia, in which the number of red blood cells in a person's blood, which deliver oxygen to organs and tissues, decreases. Left undiagnosed, this anemia can have long-term consequences for our bodies.

A lack of vitamin B12 can remain asymptomatic for affected people, its manifestations are often attributed to routine overwork

Two possible symptoms of B12 deficiency are hair loss and premature graying.

The neurologist listed the following signs of a prolonged lack of vitamin B12.

  • Feeling exhausted despite rest.
  • Dizziness, fainting.
  • Headache.
  • Brittle nails.
  • Increased susceptibility to infections.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Muscle weakness and pain.
  • Increased heart rate (tachycardia).
  • Noise in the ears (tinnitus).
  • Chilliness, increased sensitivity to cold (especially of the extremities).
  • Feverish symptoms: Feeling sick with the flu.

The doctor emphasized that persistent B12 deficiency can negatively affect the state of the central nervous system, provoking depression and mood swings, tearfulness, irritability, outbursts of anger, as well as cognitive impairment.