Folic Acid Deficiency AnemiaWhat causes people to develop this condition?

When people have low levels of folic acid in the body, they may develop a condition known as folic acid deficiency anemia. Folic acid, categorized as a B vitamin, is very important in the creation of new corpuscles (cells).  When people develop anemia, they have low levels of red corpuscles which are responsible for transporting oxygen to parts of the body.  The result of this condition is often a feeling of weakness and chronic exhaustion. Without sufficient folic acid included in your diet, you can become weak, grouchy, and have trouble performing everyday tasks without tiring. Additionally, it is important to note that the long-term effects of anemia can also be quite detrimental.

What causes people to have folic acid deficiency anemia?

Most people who develop this type of anemia do not have sufficient amounts of folic acid in their diets. According to Web MD, folic acid can be consumed through fruits that have citrus (oranges, lemons, limes, etc.), dark green vegetables like spinach, and cereals fortified with iron.  It is also a regular component of multivitamins. Folic acid deficiency anemia usually develops when a person does not get enough of these types of foods in their diet or when their body has trouble absorbing the folic acid that they do ingest. Pregnant women are particularly prone to developing folic acid deficiency anemia, as are people who consume a lot of alcohol and those who suffer from kidney problems. People who take certain types of medicines, like the medicine used to treat seizures or rheumatoid arthritis, also often have trouble absorbing folic acid.

How can I identify the symptoms?

Anemia from a folic acid deficiency can leave you feeling very fatigued. People who suffer from this deficiency often feel lightheaded, tend to be forgetful, and can feel grouchy. This deficiency can also lead to loss of appetite and trouble concentrating. Overall, folic acid deficiency anemia can be very detrimental to a person’s quality of life and can affect their overall health if left untreated.

How is this deficiency treated?

Should you think that you are suffering from anemia, the best thing to do is to talk to your doctor. Your physician can analyze your blood to determine if you are suffering from anemia and can help you determine if low levels of folic acid are the cause. A lack of iron in the diet is also a major cause of anemia. Working with your doctor will help you determine exactly what is causing your weakness and exhaustion and will help you come to a sensible solution. Your treatment may be as simple as increasing the amount of leafy green vegetables in your diet.