FOLATE DEFICIENCY : WHAT IS IT & TREATMENTS
Overview
A condition where the folic acid levels in the blood are below normal values. Folate is a type of vitamin B which helps produce healthy red blood cells and also make or repair DNA.Symptoms
Fatigue, tongue swelling, weakness, shortness of breath, irritability, pallor, headaches and palpitations are the commonly noted symptoms.
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| What are people curious about? | |
|---|---|
| Kidney disease | Colitis |
| Rheumatoid arthritis | Neuropathy |
Causes
Reduced uptake of folate in gastrointestinal tract, increased requirement of folate and increased excretion in the kidney are the probable causes.
Diagnosis
Folate is not stored in the body therefore determining levels of folate in the blood is a definitive test for diagnosis.
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Highlights
- Treatable by a medical professional
- Diagnosed by medical professional
- Often requires lab test or imaging
- Can last several months
- More common in females
- Can be dangerous or life threatening if untreated
- Family history may increase likelihood for some types
- Urgent medical attention recommended
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause for deficiency. Most of the cases can be treated with supplements. This condition is completely reversed when the levels of folate in blood are normalized.
Medications
Folate supplements: To balance the inadequacy of folic acid in the body.
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Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. Consult a medical professional for advice. Source: Focus Medica.
2024-04-26T13:24:55Z dg43tfdfdgfd