Vitamin B Deficiency Symptoms

Vitamin B does not refer to a single entity, like vitamin A, C, E, etc. In fact, it is a combination of nine water-soluble vitamins whose role in the different bodily functions is considered crucial. This the reason why the term 'vitamin B' is more appropriately referred to as 'B vitamins'. The nine vitamins include vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, vitamin B7, vitamin B8, vitamin B9 and vitamin B12. Functions of each of these vitamins show up in various processes like metabolism, cell growth, development and reproduction, etc.

Repercussion of Deficiency of B Vitamins

Thiamin
Deficiency of vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, include loss of appetite, digestive disorders, constipation, weakness in the muscles, slower pulse, depression and increased irritability. Thiamine deficiency symptoms also include insomnia and nervous exhaustion.

Riboflavin
Vitamin B2 is also known as riboflavin. Its deficiency primary manifests itself in the form of various kinds of disorders. Common symptoms include bloodshot eyes, burning sensation in the eyes, increases tearing and itching. The affected person may also develop an increased sensitivity to light. And it is not only the eyes which are affected. Symptoms, in this case, are also related with the skin. They might include cracking or peeling of the skin, soreness around the lips and oily skin. Dull hair, wrinkles and development of cataracts are the other symptoms which may arise.

Niacin
Symptoms caused by deficiency of vitamin B3, also known as niacin, include lethargy, poor appetite, lesions on the skin, headaches, and muscle weakness. Some people may become forgetful as a result of niacin deficiency, or develop digestive problems, gastrointestinal problems and dermatitis.

Pantothenic Acid
Classic symptoms caused by the deficiency of this vitamin include numbness, tingling sensations in the body (especially at the extremities), fatigue and weakness. Then there could occur more symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and listlessness.

Pyridoxine
Disorders related to the skin, anemia and malaise are known to be the characteristic symptoms that occur as a result of vitamin B6 or pyridoxamine deficiency. These may be accompanied by fatigue, insomnia, nervousness, irritability and seizures.

Biotin
As vitamin B7 or biotin, is related to the health of hair, its deficiency results in a number of hair problems. Common symptoms which may be noticed include hair loss, dry and coarse hair, and dull hair. Even skin disorders such as eczema, formation of scaly patches on the skin, may show up.

Folic Acid
One of the most severe effects of deficiency of vitamin B9, or folic acid, is seen during pregnancy. This particular nutrient is required for cell production and division. It is also required for the manufacturing of red blood cells. So, deficiency of this essential vitamin may result in birth defects, neural tube defects and premature birth. Apart from these, lack of folic acid in the diet may cause weight loss, poor appetite, sore tongue, anemia, irritability and rapid or irregular heart beats.

Cobalamin
People who experience problems like poor memory, fatigue, lack of concentration, depression and sleep disorders, might have a deficiency of vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin. Excessive fatigue, anemia, loss of appetite and numbness might also occur.

The symptoms cited above may also be caused by some other medical conditions and not necessarily by the deficiency of the B vitamins. So, it is wise to get yourself shown to the doctor before you go for any vitamin supplements, assuming that it would cure the condition.