OVERVIEW:
What is the folic acid (folate level) lab test?
A folic acid (folate level) lab test is a blood test that measures the amount of folic acid present in the blood.
Why is the folic acid (folate level) lab test done?
A folic acid (folate level) lab test is done in order to:
- Diagnose folic acid deficiency,
- Diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency,
- Diagnose anemia caused by folic acid deficiency.
What does a folic acid (folate level) lab test measure?
A folic acid (folate level) lab test measures the level of folic acid circulating in the bloodstream. Folic acid is a type of vitamin B and is extremely essential for the production of healthy red blood cells.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
There are no known risks associated with this test.
What are the signs of folic acid deficiency?
Bleeding gums, lack of appetite, diarrhea or constipation, red and swollen tongue, numbness, headache, and fatigue are some of the common signs of folic acid deficiency.
How should I prepare for this test?
Your doctor might ask you to fast for 6-8 hours before the test and get your test done early morning.
What are the causes behind a low folic acid level?
Anemia, folic acid deficiency, and malabsorption are the causes behind a low folic acid level.
What does a high folic acid level mean?
High levels of folate in the blood mean that you eat a diet rich in folate or folic acid, take vitamins, or take folic acid pills.
Normal range of folic acid in the blood is 2.7 – 17 ng/mL.
A folic acid (folate level) lab test is done in order to:
- Diagnose folic acid deficiency,
- Diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency,
- Diagnose anemia caused by folic acid deficiency.
