A low level of vitamin B6 can result in the following symptoms –
Cracked or Sore Lips
One of the major vitamin B6 deficiency symptoms is cracked or sore lips. In medical terms, this condition is known as Cheilosis, characterised by red, swollen lips with cracked mouth corners. Individuals may experience bleeding in these areas, leading to infections.
Sore Tongue
Inadequacy of pyridoxine can lead to glossitis, marked by a swollen, red, and inflamed tongue. Deficiency of vitamin B6 and B9, and B12 can also result in a smooth or glossy tongue due to loss of papillae. Individuals suffering from glossitis have difficulty chewing, talking and swallowing.
Skin Rashes
Symptoms of vitamin B6 deficiency in adults include skin rashes. Additionally, individuals with insufficient pyridoxine suffer from red itchy rashes, called seborrhoeic dermatitis, in particular areas such as the scalp, face, upper chest, and neck.
Mood Changes
Inadequate vitamin B6 impacts one’s mood and can lead to mental issues like depression, irritability, anxiety, etc.
Low Energy
If an individual feels unusually tired, it might indicate a low level of vitamin B6. One of the primary reasons is that pyridoxine helps make haemoglobin, which further aids in oxygen circulation throughout the body. Insufficient oxygen levels can lead to anaemia, resulting in weakness and fatigue.
Weak Immune System
A low level of vitamin B6 leads to decreased production of antibodies, white blood cells and other immune factors, which are essential to prevent infections, inflammations and various cancers.
Seizures
Seizures are one of the common signs of the presence of insufficient vitamin B6 in a body. Individuals can have symptoms like muscle spasms, rolling eyes, jerking in legs and arms, convulsions, loss of consciousness. However, seizures are more seen in infants but can happen with adults.
Tingling Pain
When individuals have inadequate vitamin B6, they suffer from nerve damage known as peripheral neuropathy. Symptoms include burning, shooting and tingling pain in arms, legs, feet and hands. This medical condition can lead to difficulty walking, clumsiness and balance problems.
Increased Level of Homocysteine
Insufficiency of vitamin B6 and B9, and B12 results in an increased level of homocysteine, a by-product of protein digestion. A high level of homocysteine can lead to health issues like heart problems, Alzheimer’s disease, and stroke.
The above list thoroughly clarifies which disease is caused due to deficiency of vitamin B6. Now, let us find out what causes this condition.