Ordering the Vitamin B-12 Blood Test
Vitamin B-12 Blood Test helps measure the amount of vitamin B12 in your blood, which is important for making red blood cells and keeping your nerves working well. Low levels can lead to tiredness, numbness, or trouble with memory. Interestingly, vitamin B12 deficiency can sometimes cause symptoms that look like other conditions, such as depression or balance problems, making this test helpful for finding the real cause.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Find out if low vitamin B12 is causing symptoms like tiredness or tingling in your hands and feet
- Check if your body is absorbing vitamin B12 from food or supplements
- Monitor vitamin B12 levels if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet
- Track your levels if you have had stomach or intestinal surgery
- See if your treatment for low vitamin B12 is working
Who Should Consider Vitamin B12 Screening
People who feel tired all the time, have trouble remembering things, or notice tingling in their hands or feet may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has switched to a plant-based diet and starts feeling weak or forgetful might want to check their vitamin B12 levels to see if they are getting enough from their food.
Ordering this test may also be helpful if you:
- Have a family member with low vitamin B12
- Are over age 50 and notice changes in energy or focus
- Have had weight loss surgery or other stomach surgery
- Take medicine for acid reflux or diabetes for a long time
- Have pale skin or a sore tongue without a clear reason, which can sometimes be linked to low vitamin B12
Checking your vitamin B12 level can help you find out if your symptoms are related to a shortage, so you can take steps to feel better. Waiting to order this test could mean missing the chance to catch low vitamin B12 early, which may lead to more problems with nerves or blood cells over time.
Take the next step to see if vitamin B12 is affecting your energy or nerve function by ordering your test today.
Preparing for Vitamin B12 Laboratory Analysis
Fasting for 10-12 hours before your blood draw is recommended for the most accurate vitamin B12 results. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your test results are as helpful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Vitamin B-12 Blood Test
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Measures | Low and High Levels of Vitamin B12 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin B12 | 200 – 1100 | Vitamin B12 is a nutrient needed for making red blood cells and keeping nerves healthy. This test checks the amount of vitamin B12 in your blood to see if you have enough for your body’s needs. |
High levels mean you may be taking too much vitamin B12 or have a liver or blood problem.
Low levels mean your body may not be getting or absorbing enough vitamin B12, which can cause tiredness, nerve problems, or anemia. |
Reference ranges can change over time. For the most current values, visit the Quest Diagnostics lab test directory.
Vitamin B-12 Blood Test FAQ
Is there Vitamin B-12 Blood Test testing near me?
You can find a nearby location for Vitamin B-12 Blood Test using the patient service center locator, which also lists mobile phlebotomy options. This makes it easier to get tested if you have trouble traveling or need quick results to address symptoms like tiredness or numbness.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see for the Vitamin B-12 Blood Test includes all fees, including the blood draw at a patient service center. Ordering this test is worth it if you want to find out if low vitamin B12 is causing your symptoms, such as fatigue or memory problems.
How often should I retest?
Most people retest their vitamin B12 every 3 to 6 months, especially if they are being treated for low levels or have ongoing symptoms. Regular retesting helps track if your vitamin B12 is improving and if your treatment or diet changes are working.
How accurate is the test?
The Vitamin B-12 Blood Test uses an immunoassay method, which is highly specific for vitamin B12 detection. The test has a specificity of 99% and a sensitivity of 98%. All tests at TrueHealthLabs.com are performed by CLIA-certified labs, meeting strict quality and precision standards.
Important Notes
- This test cannot be collected in NY, NJ, MA, and RI. Contact us with questions.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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