Folate Blood Test
Folate is a B vitamin that helps with growth, the production of red blood cells, and the proper function of nerve tissue.
What Is A Folate Test Used For?
Testing your folate levels is very important, as it helps check if you have enough folate to diagnose conditions like anaemia. It can also be used to check for issues related to pregnancy, malnutrition, or digestive disorders that affect nutrient absorption.
This is because folate is crucial for making red blood cells and for repairing cells and nerve tissue in your body. In pregnant women, adequate folate levels help prevent serious birth defects affecting the brain and spinal cord.
Symptoms Associated With Low Folate Levels
A folate deficiency can make you feel unusually tired or weak. It can also lead to pale skin, shortness of breath, a general feeling of weakness or lack of energy, and difficulty focusing or feeling mentally foggy. Low folate levels can also cause numbness (pins and needles) in your hands and feet, a sore tongue, and heart palpitations.
A Quick Look At Possible Test Results
Your folate levels are typically measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Normal levels vary slightly depending on the laboratory but are generally between 3.1 to 20 ng/mL. Anything below that is considered as low folate levels.
Although rare, extremely high levels may indicate an excess intake of folate supplements, which could mask a vitamin B12 deficiency or cause other health issues.
Core Blood Markers
A folate blood test typically measures your serum folate and red blood cell (RBC) folate levels. These biomarkers help check both your short-term and long-term folate levels.
PRICING
Folate Blood Test
Initial Consultation: Free
Blood Draw Fee: This fee is in addition to the cost of all blood tests taken face-to-face at Healand Clinic: £30
Home Nurse Blood Draw Fee: If you opt to have a nurse visit your home to draw your blood sample, this is carried out via our partner service via our laboratory, which incurs a fee of £60
Pre-Test Information
It is highly advised that you avoid drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours before your test, as it can interfere with folate levels. Also, if possible, schedule your folate test in the morning.
Patients must be over the age of 18
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FAQs
How often should I have a folate blood test?
Can a folate blood test diagnose other conditions?
Even though a folate blood test mainly checks your folate levels, lower folate levels may be linked to conditions like a vitamin B12 deficiency, malabsorption disorders (such as celiac disease), or liver disease.
Can folate deficiency be linked to pregnancy complications?
Sadly, yes it can. A folate deficiency during pregnancy can cause serious complications, including a higher risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida or anencephaly in the baby. This is because folate is essential for the early development of your baby's brain and spinal cord.
Can you have normal folate levels but still experience symptoms of deficiency?
It is entirely possible to have normal folate levels present in your blood but still experience symptoms linked to a folate deficiency. Especially if your body cannot properly use the folate due to issues like malabsorption, liver disease, or certain medications.
What can happen if folate deficiency is left untreated?
If left untreated, a folate deficiency can lead to anemia, heart disease, and complications during pregnancy. In severe cases, it can even cause irreversible neurological damage, especially if you also have a vitamin B12 deficiency.
