Learn About Macrocytic Anemia: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Additional Information

Anemia and Macrocytic Anemia

Anemia is a condition where there is a lack of healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. One type of anemia is macrocytic anemia, which is characterized by unusually large red blood cells that do not effectively transport oxygen.

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Understanding Macrocytic Anemia

Megaloblastic anemia and nonmegaloblastic anemia are the two basic types of macrocytic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia is caused by a lack of vitamin B12 or folate, while nonmegaloblastic anemia is caused by medical conditions that interfere with proper nutrient absorption.

Symptoms and Causes of Macrocytic Anemia

Macrocytic anemia often has no symptoms until it becomes severe. Symptoms may include diarrhea, glossitis, anorexia, peripheral neuropathy, gait instability, pallor, and fatigue. The most common cause of macrocytic anemia is a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate, but other causes include heavy alcohol consumption, hypothyroidism, liver disease, and bone marrow disease.

Diagnosing and Treating Macrocytic Anemia

Macrocytic anemia is often asymptomatic until advanced and is usually found during routine screening. A complete blood count can be taken to measure the number and size of red blood cells in the sample. Treatment for macrocytic anemia consists of increasing the intake of vitamin B12 and/or folate, addressing the condition causing poor absorption, or regular injections of B12 into the muscle for people with pernicious anemia.

Preventing Macrocytic Anemia

Eating a healthy, balanced diet, supplementing with vitamin B12 and folic acid, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, seeking treatment for eating disorders and alcoholism, and getting regular blood screenings are all ways to prevent macrocytic anemia.

Don’t wait until symptoms appear to address macrocytic anemia. Talk to your doctor and get a blood test to establish the type and cause so that it can be treated before it causes further problems.