0
0
Health experts have identified a significant correlation between memory problems, attention deficits, focus issues, and two medical conditions: vitamin B12 deficiency and hyperthyroidism. The findings were discussed by prominent health professionals on Monday.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Endocrinology revealed that nearly one in four patients with hypothyroidism or subclinical hypothyroidism also suffer from a vitamin B12 deficiency. Dr. M. Wali, Senior Consultant in the Department of Medicine at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, emphasized the implications of these findings.
“Hypothyroidism and B12 deficiency both can cause acceleration of the degenerative or age-related processes,” Dr. Wali explained in an interview with IANS.
Dr. Sudhir Kumar from Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad also underscored the connection between hypothyroidism and cognitive impairment. “Hypothyroidism is commonly associated with vitamin B12 deficiency. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can also contribute to cognitive impairment,” he stated in a post on X.com.
The experts urged individuals, regardless of their diet, to regularly monitor their B12 and thyroid levels. Dr. Wali noted a concerning trend: “Most of the patients these days have vitamin B12 deficiency.”
Hyperthyroidism, another thyroid condition, can also lead to vitamin B12 deficiency. Dr. Wali explained, “Hyperthyroidism can also cause vitamin B12 deficiency, sometimes because of increased utilization, and therefore the process of nerve conduction and transmission of the nerve impulses gets delayed.”
These cognitive and nerve issues tend to be more pronounced in patients over the age of 55. Dr. Wali advocated for enhanced vitamin B12 testing in this age group, emphasizing the importance of taking medications under medical supervision if a deficiency is detected.
“Keep your thyroid normal, and test every three months,” he advised.
Dr. Sudhir Kumar added a practical recommendation: “People presenting with memory and other cognitive difficulties without any obvious cause should be screened for vitamin B12 deficiency and hypothyroidism.”
As awareness grows about the links between vitamin B12 levels, thyroid function, and cognitive health, the medical community hopes to see improved diagnostic practices and patient outcomes.
