B12 Deficiency
B12 deficiency is another condition that mimics denture cream zinc poisoning neuropathy. B12 is a water soluble vitamin that plays a key role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system, and the formation of blood cells.
As is the case with copper, an individual needs B12 to make red blood cells, which carry oxygen through your body. Like the copper deficiency that accompanies severe denture cream zinc poisoning, B12 deficiency can lead to anemia.
Some of the symptoms of B12 deficiency are identical to denture cream zinc poisoning neuropathy. The symptoms of B12 deficiency include:
- Numbness or tingling fingers and toes.
- A poor sense of balance
- Weakness, fatigue and lightheadedness
- Pale skin
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Nausea and weight loss
- Sore, red tongue or bleeding gums
If B12 deficiency is allowed to remain for a long time, the condition also can lead to irreversible damage to nerve cells. The condition has also been linked to psychosis and dementia.
Risk factors of B12 deficiency include conditions like scleroderma, strictures and diverticula; prior surgery to remove part or all of the stomach; being a strict vegetarian, and not eating any meat, fish, egg or dairy products; and a condition called pernicious anemia.
If you use denture cream, and suffer from any of these symptoms, only a doctor can determine if your symptoms are the result of B12 deficiency or denture cream zinc poisoning neuropathy. B12 deficiency can be detected through several blood tests, or a bone marrow biopsy.