You may have heard the hype about B12 injections. Vitamin B12, or cyanocobalamin, is a vital nutrient within our bodies that aids in neurological function, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis. Most of us can keep our B12 levels consistent by the foods we eat, but it is estimated that 12% of people have a deficiency of this crucial vitamin. Now available in injection form, this natural supplement not only increases the level of B12 in your bloodstream, but it does so much quicker than other forms of B12 supplements. Known to improve symptoms and effects of disease in liver and kidney disease patients, patients with diabetes, patients with Alzheimer’s Disease, and others, as well as people experiencing increased fatigue and a lack of energy, these injections are becoming more and more popular.
If you are considering this treatment, discuss how B12 injections can help benefit you with a trained professional.
Read Also: B-12 Injections – What to Expect
Though their advantages are many, there are also many side effects to be aware of when deciding on getting this procedure that can affect many of your body functions.
B12 Injection Side Effects
Injection Site Reactions
Upon receiving the B12 injection, you may experience a skin reaction in or around the area in which the injection was placed. Pain, redness, and swelling may occur shortly after the procedure is complete. There may also be some irritation in the area, as well as a risk of infection. Be sure to follow all doctors’ orders with regard to wound care to prevent serious infection.
Gastrointestinal Effects
Though patients with gastrointestinal issues, such as Crohn’s Disease may benefit greatly from the long-term effects of B12 injections, these injections may additionally cause negative side effects in your gastrointestinal tract. Commonly reported side effects of this type include, but are not limited to nausea, upset stomach, vomiting, mild diarrhea, and indigestion. These effects usually last a week after injections, but contact your doctor immediately if you are experiencing these symptoms in extreme fashion.
Skin Reactions
Because the B12 is injected directly into the bloodstream, it is able to penetrate and permeate throughout the body for faster absorption. However, the injection may cause negative side effects on or around the skin. Patients may experience a rash around the injection site that may spread. If this rash spreads quickly, or if you are experiencing difficulty breathing, contact your local emergency room physician immediately, as this could be a sign of a dangerous allergic reaction. Patients may also experience itching of the skin in the area of the injection.
Internal Effects
Though this vitamin is naturally produced in your body, the injection of additional B12 may cause some internal side effects you should know about. It is common to experience headaches, dizziness, and weakness immediately after the injection. These should fade fairly quickly. You may also experience some numbness and tingling, depending on the injection location, as well as joint pain. Lastly, you may contract a low-grade fever, but if this fever persists, contact your doctor.
More Serious Effects
Though this naturally-occurring vitamin has many benefits, there are some potentially dangerous side effects to be aware of and to watch out for. B12 injections may contribute to low potassium levels in your body. Though rare, this reaction can cause muscle cramping, extreme fatigue, and an irregular heartbeat. Because potassium is a vital nutrient needed for your nerves and muscles to function properly, if you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Read Also: Types of B-12 Injections
Getting B12 Injections in Lafayette, LA
B12 injections can support healthy brain function, improve memory, and even reverse the effects of anemia in many patients. While the advantages are many, you should also weigh the risk factors as well when considering this treatment. If you have any questions about this treatment, its side effects, or how it can improve your overall health, contact Dr. Corwin A. Thomas, the cardiology specialist in Lafayette, LA.
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