Elevated Homocysteine Symptoms

Homocysteine is an amino acid that uses B vitamins to break down into other needed amino acids in the body. When the levels become elevated due to vitamin deficiencies, there is an increase in the risk for cardiovascular diseases. Many times the symptoms of a homocysteine increase does not appear until cardiovascular and other diseases appear.

Defintion

• The amino acid homocysteine is found in the blood as the result of eating meat. An amino acid is a natural in the body and is the protein building block. According to evitamins.com, research has shown that elevated levels of homocysteine increase the chance of a heart attack or stroke. The New England Journal of Medicine reported that high levels also increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

Symptoms

• There are no external symptoms of a high level of homocysteine. Homocysteine causes the arteries to harden and narrow in size, which causes a decrease in blood flow. The blood may clot excessively, causing clots in the arteries and veins which lead to other disorders. Children may show signs of mental retardation when the condition exists. Most cases of increases levels of homocysteine will not appear until the appearance of an associated disease.

Cause

• Homocysteine levels increase due to a decrease in folic acid (B9), Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12 in the body. These vitamins assist with homocysteine transforming into the amino acids cysteine and methionine. When there is a decrease in these vitamins, homocysteine does not breakdown. In rare conditions, a genetic deficiency of mediator molecules needed for homocysteine breakdown will cause severe elevation in homocysteine levels. A chronic kidney disease or smoking cigarettes will also cause an increase in levels.

Treatment

• Once diagnosed with high levels of homocysteine, supplements that contain the vitamins B6 and B12 along with folic acid are prescribed. Patients must also lower their heart disease risk by reducing the amount of saturated fats, high fat meats, and processed foods consumed. Fresh fruit and vegetables contain folic acid and B vitamins and should be included in the diet every day.

Prevention

• Preventing an increased level of homocysteine follows the same program as treating the condition. Take a multivitamin daily that contains folic acids and B vitamins to guarantee they are included in the diet. Eat a balanced diet that includes 5-7 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables. Fortified cereals include folic acid and are an easy way to include the vitamin in the diet. Lose excess weight and follow an exercise program to lower high blood pressure and cholesterol. Eliminate smoking cigarettes to reduce the chance of a heart attack and stroke.