AN OVERVIEW
About Folic Acid Test
Why is the folic acid test done?
A folic acid test can be done if you are experiencing the symptoms mentioned below:
- Anemia
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Headaches
- Palpitation of the heart
- Tongue ache
- Irritability
- Focus problems
- Breathing problems
What does the folic acid test measure?
The folic acid test measures the levels of folic acid in the blood.
Risks/side effects of folic acid test
There are usually no side effects or risks associated with a folic acid test. However, you might feel some pain for a few days in the area from where the blood will be taken using a needle. You can cover the same area with a bandaid to prevent infections from developing.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQs
What is the folic acid test?
Vitamin B9 is also known as folic acid. Apart from the functions mentioned above, it plays a significant role during pregnancy by reducing the chances of neural and spine abnormalities. Some of the sources of vitamin B9 include liver, citrus fruits, whole grains, beans, lentils, peas, milk, green and leafy vegetables, broccoli, avocados, etc.
The folic acid test is used to assess the levels of folic acid in the blood and to check anemia or neuropathy. It also helps in analysing the efficacy of the treatment being given for folate deficiency.
Anemia, a disease in which theres a shortage of oxygen supply to our body issues as a result of deficiency of red blood cells, can occur due to a lack of hemoglobin, a protein that helps in transporting oxygen throughout the body. Another reason for anemia is a lack of folate (vitamin B9).
Vitamin B9 deficiency can be caused by not intaking enough supplements or insufficient absorption of the same, especially during pregnancy.
When is the folic acid test performed?
The folic acid test is performed:
- If your complete blood count test report is abnormal and shows the presence of large red blood cells (macrocytosis) or hypersegmented neutrophils.
- If you have anemia (weakness, fatigue, pale skin) or neuropathy (tingling or itching sensations, eye twitching, memory loss, disoriented mental state).
- If you are undergoing a treatment for vitamin B9 deficiency.
How to prepare for the folic acid test?
Do not consume anything (except water) for 8 to 10 hours before the folic acid blood test. Do inform your doctor about the medicines that you intake prior to the test as well.
How is the folic acid test performed?
The folic acid test is performed by collecting your blood sample from a vein using an injection. The area from where the blood would be withdrawn would be first cleaned using some alcohol. You can later cover it with a gauze pad. The folic acid test can be done either at a hospital, laboratory, or clinic. Home collection services are also available.
THINGS TO KNOW AFTER GETTING TESTED
Interpreting the folic acid test results
Normal range: 2.7 – 17.0 ng/mL
Intaking vitamins and a diet rich in folic acid will increase folate levels in your blood. Over consuming folate does not do harm to your body.
Deficiency of vitamin B9 can be caused due to high folate levels, since it is required for the utilization of folate. Thus, increased levels of folate can be there in the blood as a result of low levels of vitamin B9. A folate test, however, is not reliable to check for vitamin B9 deficiency.
Low folate levels could be caused by dietary issues, alcohol abuse, eating disorders, etc, and can signify folate absorption problems, vitamin B9 deficiency, liver disease, colitis, diarrhea, Crohn’s disease, etc.
Keep the following things in mind if you have low folate levels:
- A pregnant woman requires additional folate for the growth of her baby.
- If you have hemolytic anemia, a disorder leading to the breakdown of red blood cells, you will require extra folate for the production of RBCs.
- You can have low folate levels due to certain ailments like kidney failure and cancer. In such cases, blood should be cleaned by a machine (kidney dialysis).
Folic Acid Test In Chandigarh
Starts from 200*
Folic acid test is also called vitamin B9 test and folate test. These cells are responsible for transporting and supplying oxygen to the entire body and for forming red blood cells.
Read further to know more about the folic acid test in Chandigarh, including its price and cost, preparation, test results interpretation, side effects, etc.
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