Feeling Tired All the Time? It Might Be Low B12

Many people across Mitcham, Thornton Heath, Streatham, Morden, Wallington, Croydon and Sutton tell our team they wake up already exhausted. While late nights or stress often play a part, frequent fatigue can also mean your body is short of vitamin B12, an essential nutrient for healthy red blood cells and nerves.

Why vitamin B12 matters

Vitamin B12 enables the bone marrow to produce red blood cells that carry oxygen. When levels drop, tissues receive less oxygen and energy falls. Warning signs include breathlessness, palpitations, mouth ulcers, tingling in the hands or feet, memory lapses and mood change.

Common causes in our area

• Older age can reduce stomach acid, lowering B12 absorption.
• Vegan or very low animal-product diets remove natural B12 sources, unless foods are fortified or supplements used.
• Long-term use of some heartburn medicines can interfere with absorption.
• Conditions such as autoimmune gastritis stop the stomach making intrinsic factor, a protein needed for B12 uptake. NICE now advises doctors to investigate this early.

Everyday impact

Low B12 produces more than tiredness. People may feel dizzy when standing, struggle with clear thinking or notice numb toes. Persistent deficiency can damage nerves permanently if untreated.

Fast diagnosis at Manor Chemist

You can request a simple finger-prick blood test at Manor Chemist. The test checks homocysteine and active B12. Results arrive in two working days. Our pharmacists then explain the report and outline options.

The vitamin B12 injection service

If blood work confirms a shortage, we offer hydroxocobalamin injections in our private consultation room. This form stays in the body longer than tablets and bypasses absorption problems. NHS guidance lists it as first-line treatment for deficiency.

What to expect at your visit

A trained clinician cleans the upper arm and gives a small intramuscular dose. The whole appointment usually takes under fifteen minutes. Most patients need four loading injections over two weeks, then one every eight to twelve weeks.

Safety and side effects

Hydroxocobalamin rarely causes issues beyond mild soreness at the site. Headache or itching sometimes occur but pass quickly. The injection is considered safe for long-term use, including during pregnancy under medical advice.

How quickly you may feel better

Energy often improves within days as the body starts making healthy red blood cells again. Memory and concentration may take a little longer. Tell us if symptoms linger because you might need an extra loading dose or investigation for co-existing iron deficiency.

Ongoing care

After the initial course, we set reminders so you never miss a maintenance dose. We can also liaise with your GP to share results, ensuring joined-up care.

Keeping levels healthy

Our team encourages balanced meals that include B12 rich foods such as milk, eggs, fish and lean meat unless you follow a vegan plan. Fortified cereals, nutritional yeast and plant drinks can help cover the gap for vegans.

Living well with good B12

When stores are replenished people report steadier mood, improved sleep and greater exercise tolerance. Local residents say they can manage work and family life with renewed ease.

Need advice?

Drop into Manor Chemist on London Road, Mitcham, Monday to Saturday. We welcome walk-ins, and our quiet consultation room allows confidential discussion.

Ready to boost your energy?

Our team looks forward to helping you feel your best.