VITAMIN B12; CYANOCOBALAMIN

The Vitamin B12 test measures cobalamin in the blood — a vitamin essential for making red blood cells, keeping nerves healthy and supporting brain function. Because B12 comes almost entirely from animal foods, vegetarians are more prone to deficiency, and it is one of the most common hidden deficiencies picked up in Lucknow's routine checkups.

Low B12 can cause fatigue, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, mouth ulcers, and difficulty concentrating — symptoms that creep in slowly and are easy to blame on stress. The test runs on serum by chemiluminescent immunoassay.

When do doctors advise this test?

• Persistent fatigue, weakness or low haemoglobin that is not improving
• Tingling, numbness or burning in the hands and feet
• Vegetarian diet with no B12 supplementation
• Memory or concentration complaints your doctor wants investigated

Preparation & the sample

Overnight fasting is advised for the Vitamin B12 test — the booking team will confirm the exact hours. The serum sample is protected from light (wrapped in foil) during handling. Reports are issued the same day. Doctors sometimes order folate alongside B12 — ask if your prescription includes it. Call +91 9451155402 to book a home sample collection in Lucknow.

This information is educational and general. Your doctor's advice for your specific situation always comes first.