Ordering the Homocysteine Test | New York
The Homocysteine Test helps measure the amount of homocysteine in your blood, which can show if you have a higher chance of heart disease, stroke, or vitamin B12 and folate deficiency. Interestingly, high homocysteine levels can also be linked to memory loss and mood changes, not just heart problems.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Check for hidden vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies that may not show up on other tests
- Identify increased risk for blood clots or stroke before symptoms appear
- Monitor changes in homocysteine if you have a family history of heart disease
- Track the effects of treatment for high homocysteine
- Support early detection of possible nerve damage or cognitive decline
Who Should Consider Homocysteine and Related Cardiovascular Risk Testing
Someone who has a family member with early heart disease and wants to know if they are at risk may benefit from this test. If you have unexplained fatigue, numbness, or trouble with memory, this test can help find out if high homocysteine is a factor.
Ordering may also be helpful in these situations:
- Experiencing frequent mood swings or depression without a clear cause
- Planning a pregnancy and want to lower the risk of birth defects
- Managing diabetes and want to check for hidden complications
- Recovering from a stroke or heart attack and need to monitor risk factors
- Having thyroid issues, since these can sometimes raise homocysteine levels unexpectedly
This test can show if you need to make changes to your diet or supplements to lower your risk for heart and nerve problems. Delaying this test could mean missing early signs of vitamin deficiency or blood vessel changes that are easier to manage when found sooner.
How to Prepare for Cardiovascular and Vitamin Deficiency Screening
Fasting is not required for this test, but always check your test kit instructions for any special steps. Make sure to follow whatever guidance your doctor or healthcare practitioner gives you, as this helps ensure your sample is collected the right way.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Homocysteine Test
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Test Measures | Low and High Levels of Homocysteine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homocysteine | 4.0 – 10.4 | Homocysteine is an amino acid in the blood. This test checks if your levels are too high, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and nerve problems. |
High levels mean you may have a higher risk for heart disease, blood clots, or vitamin B12/folate deficiency.
Low levels mean your risk for these problems is lower, but very low levels are rare and usually not a concern. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their guidelines, so always check your report for the most current information.
Homocysteine Test FAQ
Is there Homocysteine testing near me?
This is a test kit that you can use with a local blood draw site—check the draw location link at the top of the page. Since high homocysteine can be linked to memory loss or heart risk, having a nearby collection site makes it easier to get tested quickly and start making changes if needed.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should always help you understand your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team for extra support.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see includes standard shipping to you and back to the lab, but local draw fees may apply. Testing can help you find out if high homocysteine is affecting your risk for heart or nerve problems, so you can take steps to improve sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 3 to 6 months if you are making changes to your diet, supplements, or treatment plan. This helps you see if your homocysteine levels are improving and if your risk for heart or nerve problems is going down.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection, which is known for its precision. The specificity is 98% and the sensitivity is 97%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Why Customers Trust True Health Labs - What People are saying
Also rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 3452 ShopperApproved reviews- See all TrueHealthLabs.com reviews.
