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Delayed Diagnosis of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Symptoms, Risks And Claiming Compensation
Vitamin B12 is essential for good health and a delayed diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency may lead to serious complications. Your body does not produce B12 and it is provided through foods such as dairy, eggs and meat.
This vitamin is essential for healthy nerve function, red blood cell production and DNA synthesis. A lack of B12 may lead to issues such as memory loss or tingling in hands or feet. So if it is misdiagnosed or there is a delay in diagnosis for a prolonged period, complications can be serious, affecting physical and mental health.
Should your hospital doctor or GP have delayed diagnosis of Vitamin B12 deficiency, you may have grounds for a clinical negligence claim. Call Jefferies Claims today to find out more about compensation.
Why Is Vitamin B12 Important?
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, plays a crucial role in:
- Producing red blood cells
- Maintaining a healthy nervous system
- Supporting brain function
- Assisting in energy production
- Helping in DNA synthesis
It’s important to know that the body doesn’t produce vitamin B12 on its own. We typically get it through animal-based foods. This includes meat, dairy, and eggs. Vegetarians, vegans, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions are more prone to deficiency.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
The symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency can be subtle at first. However over time they become more serious. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to avoiding irreversible damage.
Common Early Symptoms:
- Fatigue or extreme tiredness
- Weakness
- Pale or jaundiced skin
- Shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations
Neurological Symptoms:
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- Difficulty walking or balance issues
- Memory loss
- Confusion or “brain fog”
- Depression and irritability
- Vision disturbances
Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Appetite loss
- Weight loss
If left untreated, these symptoms can become permanent. Particularly nerve damage may be irreversible, which is why early diagnosis is so critical.
What Are the Consequences of a Delayed Diagnosis?
A delayed diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to serious health complications Some of the major risks include:
Irreversible Nerve Damage
Long-term deficiency can damage the protective covering of nerves, known as the myelin sheath. This results in chronic nerve pain, numbness, or mobility issues that may never fully recover.
Cognitive Decline
Patients can experience long-term memory problems, confusion, or even early-onset dementia-like symptoms due to prolonged neurological impairment.
Psychological Issues
Delayed treatment is often linked to worsening depression and anxiety.
Anaemia and Related Complications
Vitamin B12 deficiency may cause megaloblastic anaemia. This occurs where red blood cells are abnormally large and don’t function properly. This may lead to cardiovascular strain and a greater risk of heart disease.
A healthcare provider may fail to recognise clear symptoms or does not act on test results appropriately. Such factors may be considered clinical negligence.
Can I Claim Compensation for a Delayed Diagnosis of Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
You may be able to make a clinical negligence claim if your diagnosis was delayed due to errors by a healthcare professional. You will be required to show that the healthcare provider failed to meet the standard expected of a competent medical professional. Further, that this breach directly caused you harm e.g. permanent damage or worsening symptoms.
Generally, you have three years from the date of negligence act, or from when you first became aware of it to make a clinical negligence claim. There are exceptions to this rule, such as children un 18.
Compensation for a delayed diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency depends on the severity of the harm caused. You should consult a clinical negligence lawyer who can assess our case properly and advise if it valid.
At Jefferies Claims we partner with highly experienced lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. So, if you are seeking compensation, we can help. Your first step will be to contact us today at 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange a free, no-obligation telephone consultation with a member of our friendly team.