Imagine spending most of your life feeling constantly exhausted, only to be misdiagnosed or dismissed by multiple doctors. For Katrina Burchell, this was her reality. She began experiencing fatigue at 19, but despite numerous visits to her GP, she never received clear answers. Over time, her symptoms worsened, leading her to fear she might have early-onset dementia or even a brain tumor.
In 2018, her condition took a frightening turn when she mistakenly boarded the wrong train three nights in a row. Lost and disoriented, she was approached by a concerned train driver who urged her to seek medical help. A few days later, she was referred to a hematologist, who finally provided a diagnosis: pernicious anemia. This autoimmune disease affects the stomach’s ability to absorb vitamin B12 and is one of the most common causes of severe vitamin deficiency. With the right treatment, Katrina finally had the answers she had been searching for.
Recognizing the Overlap: Brain Fog vs. Dementia Symptoms
Telling the difference between brain fog and dementia can be unsettling, especially when memory lapses start affecting daily life. Brain fog feels like mental sluggishness—trouble focusing, forgetfulness, or feeling “off”—often linked to stress, poor sleep, or vitamin deficiencies. Dementia, on the other hand, is a progressive condition that slowly erodes memory, reasoning, and decision-making.
“I would wake up, have a shower, and then need to lie down to muster up the energy for work. I would sleep on the train and read every email three or four times because the brain fog was so thick. It was all a form of masking, and I often felt like I was hanging on by a thread. At low points I questioned whether I could live like this long term and whether I really wanted to.” Katrina recalls to The Telegraph.
One key tool for sorting it out is an MRI. These scans can show changes in the brain that signal dementia, like shrinkage or damage, which typically don’t appear with brain fog. That’s why getting checked early matters—what seems like the start of something serious could be something much easier to fix. If brain fog lingers, it’s worth looking deeper. A vitamin deficiency or another treatable issue could be the real problem, and catching it early makes all the difference.
The Hidden Culprit: How Vitamin Deficiencies Mimic Cognitive Decline
Vitamin deficiencies can sneak up on you, creating symptoms that look a lot like dementia. Memory lapses, trouble focusing, and mental fog aren’t always signs of cognitive decline—they could be your body’s way of saying it’s missing something essential. One of the biggest culprits is vitamin B12. This vitamin plays a crucial role in brain function, and when levels drop too low, it can lead to confusion, forgetfulness, and even mood changes.
“Part of the problem is that B12 deficiency isn’t on the curriculum for GPs. They don’t look holistically at a patient’s overall nutrition or health, or family history. They just look for one symptom and want to treat it with a prescription.” Katrina reported in an interview with The Telegraph.
Other deficiencies, like low vitamin D or iron, can also cause sluggish thinking and fatigue. The tricky part is that these symptoms overlap with early dementia, making it easy to assume the worst. Fortunately, a simple blood test can check for deficiencies, and the right supplements or diet changes can often reverse the effects. If cognitive issues come on suddenly or worsen over time, it’s worth looking beyond neurological causes. Sometimes, the brain just needs the right nutrients to function at its best.
Read More: 13% of Dementia Diagnoses May Actually Be Reversible Conditions, Experts Say
Identifying and Addressing Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Some people, especially those with pernicious anemia, can’t absorb B12 properly, no matter how much they eat. That’s why catching it early is so important. Blood tests can check for low levels, and in more severe cases, an MRI might be needed to rule out neurological conditions since untreated B12 vitamine deficiency can damage nerves. Luckily, treatment is straightforward. Many people need B12 injections or high-dose supplements, especially if their body struggles to absorb it from food. Eating more meat, fish, eggs, or fortified foods can help, but for some, it’s not enough. Vegetarians, older adults, and those with digestive issues are especially at risk. The good news? Once treated, many symptoms improve quickly. Getting the right diagnosis can make all the difference in feeling sharp, focused, and full of energy again.
Preventative Measures: Addressing Vitamin Deficiency for Cognitive Function
Keeping your brain sharp starts with giving it the right nutrients, and vitamin B12 plays a key role in cognitive function. The best way to prevent deficiency is through a balanced diet rich in B12 sources. Regular check-ups are also important, especially if you have digestive conditions like Crohn’s or celiac disease that affect nutrient absorption.
If you’re experiencing brain fog, memory issues, or unusual fatigue, a simple blood test can check for deficiencies before they lead to long-term problems. Addressing B12 vitamin deficiency early can prevent nerve damage and cognitive decline, keeping your mind clear and energy levels high. With the right diet and routine monitoring, you can support brain health and stay ahead of potential deficiencies before they take a toll.
Final Thoughts
With the support of her family and a team of dedicated doctors, Katrina is now in a much better place, both mentally and physically.
“Better awareness and education about vitamin B12 in primary care is vital, as is a shift in attitude toward the importance of vitamin deficiencies,” she says. “There’s a lot of medical gaslighting, especially when it comes to autoimmune diseases.”
In 2019, she began volunteering with the Pernicious Anaemia Society and later stepped into the role of chief executive when the position became available. “If I can save just one person from going through what I went through, it would mean the world to me.”
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.
Read More: Critical Vitamin Deficiency Puts People At Higher Risk For Dementia, Says Health Officials