Multiple sclerosis (MS), especially in its early stages, shares overlapping symptoms with many other conditions. Unfortunately, this makes it easy to misdiagnose. One of these conditions, which is gaining attention in the medical community, is vitamin B12 deficiency.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is relatively common in the United States, affecting between 1.5 and 15 percent of the adult population, according to Cleveland Clinic. Older adults, those who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, and those with medical conditions that hamper the absorption of B12 (also known as cobalamin) are most at risk of becoming deficient in B12. Certain diabetes and acid-lowering medications can also hinder the absorption of B12.
