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Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid Panel

This Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid Test measures levels of folic acid (folate) and vitamin B12 in the body.

$59
Order panel
Test Preparation:
None
Testing Method:
Blood draw

This Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid Test measures levels of folic acid (folate) and vitamin B12 in the body. Levels of folate and vitamin B12 depend exclusively on diet as neither of these nutrients are naturally produced by the body. Deficiencies can lead to minor symptoms such as dizziness or fatigue. But if left unaddressed, low levels can lead to anemia, nerve damage, or gastrointestinal issues. This Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid Test is offered at a discounted rate as compared to the costs of both tests individually.

How Our Vitamin B12 & Folic Acid Tests Work

Priority Lab Testing offers Vitamin B12 and Folic acid tests to help you determine if you are at risk of developing anemia and other related conditions. We have over 4000 testing facilities throughout the country that you can visit for testing without an appointment.

But first, book a Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid panel, then visit a facility that’s near you. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by one of our certified members of staff. They take a blood sample for testing using the skin prick method.

Don’t worry. The process will be fast and painless. And more importantly, we value and respect your time. So, the process will only take a few minutes to allow you to attend to other important things.

Your sample will then be tested in a CLIA-certified lab, and we will send your result in 24 to 72 hours.

What Is Vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays a role in producing red blood cells and maintaining the nervous system. It can be found in food such as meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia and other related conditions, such as megaloblastic anemia, which is a type of anemia that results in large, abnormal red blood cells.

What Is Folic Acid?

Folic acid is a nutrient that helps the body produce new cells. It can be found in food such as leafy green vegetables, legumes, and nuts.

Folic acid deficiency can lead to anemia and other related conditions, such as neural tube defects.

Why Get Tested?

Vitamin B12 and folic acid tests are recommended for people at risk of developing anemia or other related conditions.

People at risk include:

  • Pregnant women 
  • Women of childbearing age
  • People with a history of anemia
  • People with a family history of anemia or neural tube defects
  • Vegetarians and vegans
  • Elderly people

Common Symptoms of Vitamin B12 & Folic Acid Deficiency

Vitamin B12 or folate insufficiency anemia may produce a variety of signs. These generally develop gradually but can get worse if the problem is ignored.

Some of the general symptoms of anemia include:

  • Breathlessness
  • Headaches
  • Lack of energy (lethargy)
  • Pale skin
  • Loss of appetite and weight loss
  • Noticeable heartbeats (Palpitations)

If a deficiency of vitamin B12 causes your anemia, you may also exhibit the following symptoms:

  • Mouth ulcers
  • Redness and soreness of the tongue (glossitis)
  • Irritability
  • Disturbed vision
  • Depression
  • A decline in mental abilities such as understanding, memory, and judgment
  • Changes in the way you walk and move around
  • Pins and needles (paraesthesia) 

If you have anemia caused by a folate deficiency, you may also experience additional symptoms, including:

  • A reduced sense of taste
  • Diarrhea
  • Numbness and tingling in the feet and hands
  • muscle weakness, 
  • Depression.

How to Interpret Your Results

Your convenience is a top priority for Priority Lab Testing. That’s why you don’t need to come in and collect your tests in person. We understand how important your time is, so we’ll email you a secure link that you can use to access it instead. 

The results are displayed plainly and simply because we understand that not everyone is a medical expert. 

The chart included displays different levels of vitamin B12 and folic acid. Your specific level is identified by the flag next to your results. 

If you have questions about your results, please don’t hesitate to contact us. One of our certified professionals will be more than happy to help you understand your results and give advice as needed.

FAQs

  • The most common symptom of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia is fatigue. Other symptoms may include pale skin, shortness of breath, headache, lightheadedness, dizziness, and a fast heartbeat.

  • Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. These may include nerve damage, cognitive decline, and dementia.

  • The most common symptom of folic acid deficiency anemia is fatigue. Other symptoms may include pale skin, shortness of breath, headache, lightheadedness, dizziness, and a fast heartbeat.

  • Folic acid deficiency anemia can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. These may include congenital disabilities, cognitive decline, and dementia.