Elevated homocysteine levels may increase the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, hypothyroidism, Alzheimer’s disease, osteoporosis, and blood clotting disorders. It can be detected through blood tests and treated with vitamin supplements and lifestyle changes.
Elevated homocysteine levels can increase risk factors for several medical conditions, although it’s not clear whether these elevated homocysteine levels actually cause these conditions or if they are simply a marker indicating a genetic predisposition. Heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels are among the potential effects of high homocysteine levels. Patients with high homocysteine levels may also be at increased risk of developing hypothyroidism, Alzheimer’s disease, and osteoporosis.
Research has indicated that risk factors for heart disease and other heart problems are increased in those with elevated homocysteine levels. Some studies suggest that women may be at higher risk of developing these effects. High blood pressure and high cholesterol levels are among these potential effects. Additional heart effects may include a higher risk of developing blood clots or having a stroke.
Atherosclerosis is a medical term for the narrowing and hardening of the arteries. This occurs due to the gradual buildup of cholesterol and other substances in the blood. In many cases, elevated homocysteine levels have been shown to be associated with this condition. When arteries narrow, proper blood flow throughout the body is compromised, putting extra strain on the heart.
Elevated homocysteine levels can increase your chances of developing blood clotting disorders. When blood clots develop within the arteries, blood flow can be seriously impaired, leading to oxygen and nutrient deprivation throughout the body. This in turn can greatly increase your risks of developing life-threatening complications such as stroke or heart attack.
The risks of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are thought to be higher in those with elevated homocysteine levels. The risks of osteoporosis and bone fracture may also be high in these patients. Some research has suggested that high homocysteine levels may begin in the embryonic stage of development, eventually predisposing the developing child to certain health conditions, including mental retardation.
Fortunately, there are usually no symptoms of elevated homocysteine unless one of the associated diseases or medical conditions develops. This condition can be detected through simple blood tests and can almost always be treated easily with vitamin supplements such as vitamins B-6, B-12 and folic acid. Dietary or lifestyle changes, in addition to nutritional supplementation, may be suggested for some patients. Any questions or concerns about higher than normal homocysteine levels or available treatment methods should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
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