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Why would my red blood cells be enlarged?

By Angel Hume

Why would my red blood cells be enlarged?

Without vitamin B12 and folate, RBCs remain in an immature stage of development, which is larger than their mature size. With some metabolic problems, such as those caused by alcoholism or liver disease, fat can accumulate in the RBCs, causing them to be enlarged.

Does B12 increase red blood cells?

Your body needs vitamin B12 to make red blood cells. In order to provide vitamin B12 to your cells: You must eat foods that contain vitamin B12, such as meat, poultry, shellfish, eggs, fortified breakfast cereals, and dairy products. Your body must absorb enough vitamin B12.

Can enlarged red blood cells be reversed?

Most cases of macrocytic anemia that are caused by vitamin B-12 and folate deficiencies can be treated and cured with diet and supplements. However, macrocytic anemias can cause long-term complications if left untreated. These complications can include permanent damage to your nervous system.

What medications can cause enlarged red blood cells?

Drugs that can cause this type of hemolytic anemia include:

  • Cephalosporins (a class of antibiotics), most common cause.
  • Dapsone.
  • Levodopa.
  • Levofloxacin.
  • Methyldopa.
  • Nitrofurantoin.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Penicillin and its derivatives.

How serious is macrocytosis without anemia?

Macrocytosis is most commonly caused by alcoholism, Vitamin B12 deficiency and medications. Even in the absence of anemia, an increased MCV needs to be evaluated, as it may be the only clue to an underlying pathological condition.

How do you treat enlarged red blood cells?

Management of macrocytosis consists of finding and treating the underlying cause. In the case of vitamin B-12 or folate deficiency, treatment may include diet modification and dietary supplements or injections. If the underlying cause is resulting in severe anemia, you might need a blood transfusion.

How can I lower my red blood cell count naturally?

High RBC Count Treatment

  1. Exercise to improve your heart and lung function.
  2. Eat less red meat and iron-rich foods.
  3. Avoid iron supplements.
  4. Keep yourself well hydrated.
  5. Avoid diuretics, including coffee and caffeinated drinks, which can dehydrate you.
  6. Stop smoking, especially if you have COPD or pulmonary fibrosis.

Can macrocytosis be normal?

The prevalence of macrocytosis in general population is reported to range between 1.7 and 3.6% [1, 2]. Physiological macrocytosis is seen in pregnancy, newborns and infants. Macrocytosis without anemia may sometimes be a normal variant found in members of the same family, suggesting a genetic predisposition.

What are the side effects of enlarged red blood cells?

loss of appetite or weight

  • brittle nails
  • fast heartbeat
  • diarrhea
  • fatigue
  • pale skin,including lips and eyelids
  • shortness of breath
  • poor concentration or confusion
  • memory loss

    • What is the cause of enlarged red blood cells?

    Symptoms. Generally,macrocytosis (also known as megalocytosis or macrocythemia) is associated with anemia (macrocytic anemia),which is diminished RBC count.

  • Causes. There are several causes of macrocytosis.
  • Diagnosis.
  • Treatment.
  • Prevention.
  • Summary.
  • A Word From Verywell.
  • Frequently Asked Questions.

    • What does enlarged red blood cells indicate?

    Heart failure,causing low blood oxygen levels

  • Congenital heart disease (born with it)
  • Polycythemia vera (a blood disorder in which the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells)
  • Kidney tumors
  • Lung disease,such as emphysema,COPD,pulmonary fibrosis (lung tissue becomes scarred)
  • Hypoxia (low blood oxygen levels)

    • What causes enlarged RBC?

    vitamin B-12 deficiency

  • folate deficiency
  • some medications,such as chemotherapy drugs like hydroxyurea,antiseizure medications,and antiretroviral drugs used for people with HIV