How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Children

Audience: pediatric

Vitamin B12 deficiency in children can cause symptoms like tiredness, weakness, and developmental delays. Preparing for a video visit with a healthcare provider can help you get the most from your appointment. During the visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, diet, and medical history. They may suggest blood tests to check vitamin B12 levels. Treatment often involves vitamin B12 supplements or injections. This guide helps you understand what to expect, how to prepare, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool for education and follow-up but is not a substitute for in-person medical care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has sudden weakness or difficulty moving limbs — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child shows difficulty breathing or swallowing — call emergency services right away.
• Child becomes confused, has trouble speaking, or loses consciousness — get urgent medical help.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history related to vitamin B12 deficiency.
• Providing education about vitamin B12 deficiency and its management.
• Reviewing lab test results and explaining treatment options.
• Monitoring response to vitamin B12 supplementation in follow-up visits.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations that require hands-on assessment.
• Administering vitamin B12 injections or other treatments in person.
• Managing emergency situations or severe symptoms requiring immediate care.
• Diagnosing conditions that need laboratory or imaging tests not available remotely.

What is Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Children?

Vitamin B12 is a nutrient important for making red blood cells and keeping the nervous system healthy. Children with low vitamin B12 may feel tired, weak, or have trouble concentrating. Sometimes, they can have pale skin or slow growth. Deficiency can happen if a child does not get enough vitamin B12 from their diet or has trouble absorbing it.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your visit, gather information to share with your healthcare provider:

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's health and symptoms. They may review your child's diet and medical history. The provider might suggest blood tests to check vitamin B12 levels and other related tests. Based on the results, they will discuss treatment options and next steps.

Treatment and Follow-Up

Treatment often includes vitamin B12 supplements, either by mouth or injection. Your provider will explain how to give these safely. Follow-up visits may be needed to check your child's progress and blood levels. Keep track of any new or worsening symptoms and share them during follow-up.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

If your child has any of these signs, seek urgent medical care:

These symptoms need prompt in-person evaluation.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms and when they began.
• List all foods your child typically eats and any dietary restrictions.
• Prepare a list of current medications and supplements your child takes.
• Test your internet connection and ensure your device's camera and microphone work.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the video visit.
• Have a notepad ready to write down important information or instructions.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan as advised by your healthcare provider.
• Schedule and attend any recommended follow-up appointments.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and report any changes to the provider.
• Arrange for blood tests if recommended to check vitamin B12 levels.
• Keep a record of your child's progress and any side effects from treatment.

FAQs

What causes vitamin B12 deficiency in children?

Vitamin B12 deficiency can occur if a child does not get enough vitamin B12 from their diet, especially if they follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet. It can also happen if their body has trouble absorbing vitamin B12 due to medical conditions or certain medications.

How is vitamin B12 deficiency diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves blood tests to measure vitamin B12 levels and check for anemia. Your healthcare provider may also order additional tests to find the cause of the deficiency.

Can vitamin B12 deficiency be treated at home?

Treatment often includes vitamin B12 supplements, which can be given by mouth or injection. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the best method and dosage for your child.

How long does it take for symptoms to improve?

Improvement can vary but many children start feeling better within a few weeks of treatment. Some symptoms, especially nerve-related ones, may take longer to improve.

Is vitamin B12 deficiency preventable?

Yes. Ensuring a balanced diet with enough vitamin B12, especially in children with dietary restrictions, can help prevent deficiency. In some cases, supplements may be recommended.

Sources

1. Vitamin B12 Deficiency — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Causes and Diagnosis — Mayo Clinic.
3. Vitamin B12 Deficiency — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate care from a healthcare professional.