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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Does Alcoholism Cause A High MCV?

Hi, I had a high MCV on recent blood test and now my dr keeps saying I am an alcoholic and I know im not. I do however drink once or twice a month with my husband and we have a twelvepack from Friday until sunday. is this alcoholism and will this much cause a high MCV
Wed, 26 Mar 2014
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hi,
High MCV can be an indicator of anaemia due to Vitamin B12 or folica acid deficiency. Of course, it can also be due to alcoholism per say but I would not consider you to be dependent on alcohol if you are drinking only once or twice a month, like you have mentioned. However, it will be useful if you undergo a complete liver function test to rule out any liver impairment due to alcohol to be on the safe side. More importantly,you need further investigations for finding out the causes of increased MCV like hemoglobin%, vit B12 level, etc. Finally, even if it is not due to alcohol, I would advice you to stop drinking completely as it would impair your recovery.
Best wishes.
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Does Alcoholism Cause A High MCV?

Hi, High MCV can be an indicator of anaemia due to Vitamin B12 or folica acid deficiency. Of course, it can also be due to alcoholism per say but I would not consider you to be dependent on alcohol if you are drinking only once or twice a month, like you have mentioned. However, it will be useful if you undergo a complete liver function test to rule out any liver impairment due to alcohol to be on the safe side. More importantly,you need further investigations for finding out the causes of increased MCV like hemoglobin%, vit B12 level, etc. Finally, even if it is not due to alcohol, I would advice you to stop drinking completely as it would impair your recovery. Best wishes.