Patient was educated on signs and symptoms of folate as follows:
- Folate is required for normal maturation of red blood cells in the human body. Mature red blood cells in circulation help pick up oxygen from the lungs, transport oxygen, and deliver it to the various body tissues.
- Deficiency of folate can result in compromised and incomplete maturation of red blood cells. This can result in immature red cells in blood circulation that are poorly functional, in comparison to the mature red blood cells. Also, immature red blood cells are short-lived and do not survive for the length of time that normal mature red blood cells do. This can result in poor oxygen transport by red blood cells, reduced count of red blood cells, and anemia.
- Anemic patients with low red blood cell count present with deficient oxygen and nutrient transport to all the body tissues. The major symptoms of anemia arise from deficient transport of oxygen and nutrients by red blood cells and consequent compromised function of various body tissues.
- Folate is also needed for synthesis and repair of DNA, which is very important for healthy cellular growth and division. Deficiency of folate can inhibit DNA synthesis and thereby, slow down the cell growth and division in all tissues of the body, especially the skin and nervous tissues.
Consequently, patients can present with the following signs and symptoms.
- Skin and mucous membrane changes: Rich supply of blood and oxygen to the skin and mucus membranes is needed for pink, healthy coloration to the tissues. Low red cell count with deficient oxygen supply in anemic individuals result in pale coloration to skin and mucus membranes. Also, poor cell growth and division due to folate deficiency can result in hair loss, graying of hair, and oral ulcers.
- Cold extremities: Rich supply of blood and oxygen to the distal extremities is needed for maintenance of warmth. Low blood cell count with deficient oxygen supply in anemic individuals result in cold extremities to touch.
- Neuropathy: Poor DNA synthesis and repair involving the nervous tissues can result in neuropathy. Patients can present with tingling and numbness of hands and feet, altered sensitivity to touch and temperature, radiating burning sensation in extremities, poor coordination and balance, and increased risk for falls & accidents.
