Folic acid deficiency anemia: diagnosis, treatment
How is diagnosis of folic acid deficiency anemia?
Folic acid deficiency anemia may be suspected from general findings from a complete medical history and physical examination. In addition, several tests can be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
These tests, which check for low folic acid levels and associated anemia, include: A complete blood count (CBC) and a blood smear. Blood cells are checked for the proper shape, color, number, and size. These features help your health professional determine what type of anemia may be present. These tests show red blood cells that are larger than normal (macrocytic), when have folic acid deficiency. Measurements of folic acid levels (folate) and vitamin B12 levels, to distinguish between these two causes of anemia.
How is treatment of folic acid deficiency anemia?
Before you begin your treatment, the doctor will determine if the cause of your anemia is low levels of folic acid or vitamin B12. Treatment for folic acid deficiency when patient has a vitamin B12 deficiency can be dangerous. A vitamin B12 deficiency causes nervous system damage over time. A patient mistakenly treated for a folic acid deficiency may feel better at first, because many symptoms of anemia improve. Consequently, the nervous system damage caused by vitamin B12 deficiency may be missed and become worse.
You can treat folic acid deficiency anemia by increasing your intake of folic acid. Usually taking a 1 mg folic acid supplement daily will improve anemia within 5 to 7 days. You can continue to take supplements until your body reaches proper levels of folic acid, usually between 1 week and 2 months.
When you no longer have folic acid deficiency anemia, you most likely will be able to maintain a proper level of folic acid if you eat foods high in folic acid, such as citrus fruits and dark green, leafy vegetables. A few people with chronic conditions (such as hemolytic anemia, chronic liver failure) may have to take folic acid supplements for the rest of their lives.
Self care of folic acid supplements need to avoid alcohol, non-herbal tea, antacids, and phosphates, tobacco. A person with folic acid deficiency anemia should rest as often as necessary until restored energy levels make it possible to resume regular activities. A doctor should be seen if fever, chills, muscle aches, or new symptoms develop during treatment, or if symptoms do not improve after two weeks of treatment. If the patient has glossitis, emphasize the importance of good oral hygiene. Suggest regular use of mild or diluted mouthwash and a soft toothbrush. Watch fluid and electrolyte balance, particularly in the patient who has severe diarrhea and is receiving parenteral fluid replacement therapy.
To prevent folic acid deficiency anemia, emphasize the importance of a well-balanced diet high in folic acid. Identify alcoholics with poor dietary habits and try to arrange for appropriate counseling. Tell mothers who aren’t breast-feeding to use commercially prepared formulas.