Vitamin B12 & Folate Test

About This Test

Interested in tracking your vitamin B12 and folate levels? Opt for this test, which measures these crucial vitamins vital for forming red and white blood cells, supporting the nervous system, repairing tissues and DNA, the genetic blueprint of cells. As essential nutrients, vitamin B12 and folate play a pivotal role in our well-being, but must be acquired through diet or supplements as the body cannot produce them. Deficiency in these vitamins can result from limited intake, poor absorption, age, medical conditions, or medications, potentially leading to anemia, nervous system disorders, and various health concerns. Our test helps unveil whether you're experiencing a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate.

Signs & Symptoms

People with low levels of vitamin B12 or folate may not have any symptoms or may have symptoms of anemia or nerve damage. General symptoms related to anemia and nerve damage include fatigue, weakness, difficulty concentrating, depression, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, headaches, moodiness, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Some people may not have all or any of these symptoms but still have a deficiency.

Symptoms:

• Extreme, persistent fatigue
• Pale or yellow skin color
• Pounding sound in ears
• Easy bruising
• Impaired ability to do activities requiring physical exertion (exercise intolerance)
• Frequent infections
• Headaches
• Muscle weakness
• Constipation
• Unintentional weight loss
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
• Heart flutters
• Abnormally rapid heartbeat
• Foggy thinking, poor memory
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty walking, unsteady gait
• Problems with balance
• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• An intense craving to chew and eat ice, eat non-food items, or both (pica)
• Changes to mood or sleep (depression, irritability, panic attacks, insomnia)

If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as abnormal heartbeat, heart flutters, fainting, shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, unsteady gait, or severe bruising, or if you are experiencing infertility issues, speak with your healthcare provider before purchasing this test.

Who Should Have This Test

You must be 18 years of age or older to order.

How This Test is Performed

Sample collection will involve obtaining a blood sample through venipuncture, where a needle is used to draw blood from a vein.

Preparing for Your Test

This panel does not require fasting. Dietary supplements containing biotin may interfere with this panel, causing results to be either falsely high or falsely low. We recommend pausing biotin-containing supplements 72 hours prior to being tested.