A serious complication of taking folate tablets is the possible masking of vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia. Do not start taking folate supplements until your doctor has made sure you do not have vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia. The prevention of anemia depends on its cause. If your anemia is caused by a deficiency in your diet, eating foods rich in the missing nutrient will help to prevent a recurrence. Dehydration can trigger a sickle cell crisis.
Genetic counseling is important for families with inherited anemias.
Developed by Phyllis G. Cooper, R.N., M.N., and Clinical Reference Systems.