Homocysteine: Understanding the Risks and Causes

Homocysteine disease is caused by increased levels of homocysteine in the body. Homocysteine is a type of amino acid that helps the body fight common diseases, but increased levels lead to problems such as stroke and heart attack.

Complications

• A buildup of homocysteine in the body can lead to advanced heart disease, peripheral vascular disease and stroke. It can also cause heart attacks in some patients.

Causes

• The major causes of the disease are genetics and diet. Those with a diet high in Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12 and folic acid have a lesser chance of developing the condition.

Testing

• Doctors can test the levels of homocysteine in patients. Those with a higher level can take precautions to reduce their levels and reduce their chances of developing the disease. It is typically done in those with a history of heart disease.

Prevention/Solution

• Prevention of homocysteine disease relies heavily on diet. A diet high in leafy greens and whole grains contain folic acid and vitamins that lower the homocysteine levels.

Serious Complications

• When the homocysteine levels grow larger, blood clots are possible. These clots travel through the bloodstream and can cause tears in the walls of the arteries.