Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Also known as: vitamin B12 deficiency, B12 deficiency, pernicious anaemia
B12 deficiency causes anaemia and — importantly — nerve damage: pins and needles, unsteady walking, memory problems. It usually needs B12 injections (especially with absorption problems like pernicious anaemia). Chinese medicine supports the spleen-qi, heart-spleen and liver-blood patterns alongside treatment, and monitors neurological recovery closely.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Injections are often needed lifelong when absorption is the cause.
- •Report nerve symptoms early — early treatment protects nerves.
- •Include B12 foods (meat, fish, dairy, fortified products).
- •Tell your GP about any stomach surgery or gut conditions.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Herbs never replace B12 injections when neurological damage is present.[]
When to reassess or seek care again
Review at 4–8 weeks: nerve symptoms, blood count, B12 level, absorption diagnosis.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- NHS · 2024
- Healthdirect Australia · 2024
- National Library of Medicine · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.