ATTENTION

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 for 24/7 free and confidential crisis support. You do not have to be suicidal to call. Access more info and resources on suicide prevention, emotional and mental health support. 
toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Folate deficiency anemia

Top of the page

Folate deficiency anemia

Folate deficiency anemia results from lower-than-normal levels of folate in the body. It causes symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, and lightheadedness.

Causes of folate deficiency anemia include:

  • Not getting enough folate or folic acid in the diet.
  • An increased need for folate, as can happen during pregnancy or with certain diseases, such as sickle cell disease.
  • Drinking too much alcohol.
  • Certain medicines.
  • Artificial cleansing of the blood (hemodialysis), as is done to treat kidney disease.

Folate deficiency anemia is treated by increasing a person's intake of folate or folic acid supplements.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more, visit Healthwise.org

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Take Care, Someone Needs You.

You take care of others, so take care of yourself. Let us be your partner in health, whether you're recovering from an injury, checking in for your annual exam, or enjoying an online class.

Because when you take care of yourself, everyone around you benefits.

Connect with Us
Contact Us In Boise (208) 381-2222