Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disorder. Normally, blood vessels are disc-shaped and flexible, which enables them to move easily though blood vessels. In sickle cell anemia, red blood cells are sickle-shaped and rigid, which causes the cells to get stuck in small blood vessels. Sickled-red blood cells are also not able to carry enough oxygen from the lungs to the body. Patients with sickle cell anemia are advised to take folate supplements.
Folate and Sickle Cell Anemia
Folate or folic acid supplements are important for the treatment of sickle cell anemia. Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin that is needed by the body for the production of healthy red blood cells and prevention of anemia, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Folate helps in the production of normal red blood cells in patients with sickle cell anemia, which decreases anemia symptoms.
Sources of Folate
The daily recommended dietary intake of folate is 400 micrograms per day in males and females, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Pregnant women and older adults require more folate. Folate is found in foods such as spinach, lettuce, broccoli, asparagus, okra, fortified breads and cereals, bananas, melons, beans, peas, lentils, beef liver, kidney, orange juice and cantaloupe.
Folate Administration
Folic acid supplements are available in form of tablets and injections. Folic acid tablets are usually taken once a day with foods. Folic acid injections are suitable for patients who have digestion problems. Patients with sickle cell anemia require life-long treatment with folic acid supplements. Common effects of folic acid supplements include loss of appetite, nausea, gas, bloating, insomnia, depression and unpleasant taste in the mouth.
Symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia
Patients with sickle cell anemia experience symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, paleness, bone pain, rapid heart rate, chest pain, periodic episodes of pain, frequent infections, ulcers in the lower legs, abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin, excessive thirst, poor eyesight and painful prolonged erections, according to PubMedHealth. Sickle cell anemia can cause blood clots if sickled red blood cells block blood vessels that transport blood to the brain.
