Homocysteine
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Homocysteine


Extensive research has shown that too much homocysteine, which is an amino acid, found in your bloodstream can increase your risk of cardiovascular-related issues, like heart disease and stroke. Additionally, high levels of homocysteine can damage the artery lining, which can cause cholesterol changes that lead to blockages. Twenty percent of those with heart disease have high levels of homocysteine.

Homocysteine levels are determined by both diet and genetics. Folic acid, B6 and B12 vitamins have been proven to dissolve homocysteine. Lab testing for homocysteine can help assess this risk. If you have a family history of heart disease, homocysteine testing should be considered — especially if you don't have any other symptoms like high cholesterol and blood pressure. Elevated homocysteine levels have also been linked to an increase risk of bone fractures in older populations.

Homocysteine levels and treatments


If you have high levels of homocysteine, your doctor will probably advise you to increase your folic acid and B6/B12. This includes green vegetables and whole grains. Your doctor will develop a nutritional program to help lower your homocysteine levels. Supplements may be required to lower homocysteine if diet is not enough.

If your homocysteine levels are less than 12 µmol per L (micromoles per liter), you have normal amounts of homocysteine. If your levels of homocysteine are 12 to 15 µmol per L, then you should be concerned and consult your doctor. If you have high homocysteine levels, you should be retested every eight weeks while undergoing treatment. The HealthCheckUSA homocysteine test is same ordered by physicians. Your doctor will use these results in conjunction with your history, and he or she will possibly order additional tests if homocysteine levels are found to be too high.

Ordering a Homocysteine Test


Ordering a homocysteine test from HealthCheckUSA is simple. Find the homocysteine page on the HealthCheckUSA site, fill out the client information profile and subsequently select your method of payment. You will be sent a personalized requisition form by first class mail that you will need to bring to your selected laboratory location. The technician at the laboratory will draw a small sample of your blood for the homocysteine panel. As you have prepaid for this service, no further payment will be required at the laboratory.

Preparing for a Homocysteine Test


Like all of our blood tests, we recommend a 10-hour fast in order to receive the most accurate results. Water and black coffee are typically allowed, however. Homocysteine results will be sent by first class mail on the business day following your test. Please allow 10 business days to receive your homocysteine test results. All results from HealthCheckUSA include reference ranges that help you better understand the results. You may also receive the results of your homocysteine test via our secure website.