Risk Factors of Folate Deficiency
You are at a greater risk of developing folic acid deficiency if:
- You are pregnant.
- You don’t consume a well-balanced meal.
- You have a medical history of the condition.
- You consume excess alcohol.
- You have health conditions that affect the absorption of nutrients.
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Diagnosis of Folate Deficiency
If you experience any of the symptoms associated with the condition, consult your doctor. Your doctor may ask you about your symptoms, medical history, and family history. Your doctor may do a physical examination. He/she may also recommend doing blood tests and complete blood count (CBC) test. Based on your results, your doctor may recommend appropriate treatments.
If you are pregnant, your doctor may recommend doing blood tests to check for folate deficiency as part of routine checkups. In pregnant women, abnormal levels of folic acid may result in the baby having low birth weight, birth defects, or premature birth. Low levels of folic acid may even lead to miscarriage.
Read More : Complete Blood Count Test: Why and How is it Done?
Treatment for Folate Deficiency
If you are diagnosed with the condition, your doctor may recommend appropriate treatment based on a number of factors. To recommend an appropriate treatment, some of the factors your doctor may consider include your age, medical history, physical and mental health, current medications, and allergy triggers.
The first thing your doctor may ask you to do is increase the intake of folic acid in your diet. He/she may also recommend food that is good for your health and food to avoid. In addition, your doctor may prescribe a folic acid supplement that you may need to take daily for a specific period.
Make sure you take the supplements as prescribed by your doctor and avoid skipping any dosages. Your doctor may recommend certain tests to check if your folate levels are back to normal. If there’s an improvement in the condition, your doctor may gradually ask you to stop taking the supplements. If your treatment is not effective, your doctor may change the treatment option and check what works best for you. In some cases, individuals may need to take supplements for a longer period.