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580765 tn?1274919360

MTHFR gene and heart issues

I am wondering if anyone on here has been told that they have the MTHFR gene? (It looks like some dirty words, but actually stands a long scientific term.)
I am asking because my racing heart, delayed skipped beat episodes are accompanied by TIA-like symptoms. I have had these episodes for almost 8 years with no explanation. I am currently wearing an event monitor to help determine if my issue is with my heart, since until last month, all docs have looked in the nervous system.
Since I am homozygous (1 copy) for the C677T MTHFR gene- which causes a higher risk for blood clots- especially in the presence of hormones, I have began researching the relationship between this condition and heart arrythemias that may lead to TIAs. The neuro/ stroke specialist at Duke suggested that the TIA- like symptoms my be due to the pooling and eventual clotting of blood in my heart that an break off tiny clots, leading to the TIA episodes, which- for me- include fatique, thick, slurred speech, blackouts of vision and hearing, and tingling on my right side.
Because of the MTHFR gene, I took Lovenox injections during my pregnancy. Apparently the risk of clots to the placenta is high, but the shots let me have a full- term pergnancy and a healthy baby.
Since this has been going on for 8 years I have been doing reasearch to educate myself, in hopes that my knowledge will help me to better communicate everything that the doctors need to hear to finally make a correct diagnosis.
I am newly 32 years old and have been dealing with this for almost 8 years. I really wish that I could get a correct diagnosis and treatment so that I can get on with my active life.
If anyone has any information to share with me on this, I will GREATLY appreciate it.
THANK YOU ALL!

6 Responses
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Avatar universal
CRSWIN.....I am 70 and diagnosed with 2 copies (homozygeous C677T) two years ago....I never realized that a inside idea by my OBGYN would have led me to the answer to so many questions that the blanks were filled in once I found this out and started my research.   There are multiple sites you can google on MTHFT (Ben Lynch, Living with MTHFT, The Whole Journey, and many others).  Please give them a looksee...  There are also books on the MTHFR that are also informative.  I now realize that as far back as a pre-teen there were events in my life that can be explained away now by this MTHFR gene....firstly was the laughing gas at the dentist.  I too have had a mini stroke and a heart attack.  I have had heart palpitations/fluttering for 40 years+ and now can relate it to this gene.  The doctors originally thought it was because of Hashimotos but that came about they believe because of the MTHFR effects on so many systems in the body that don't function well if you are not getting what you need for them....When you have too much Homocystine, a folate problem (not helped by the standard American diet) and the foods available to you....(I finally went on an elimination diet).  Your vitamin levels of D and B12 are important as well.  I had a test ordered by my OBGYN that was done by Genesight and it gave me tons of information on drugs that were dangerous to me as well as those somewhat questionable and others that were OK.  Yes you need to be your own doctor...you know best intuitively and daily how you feel and you must speak up....if a doctor poo poo's you  find another.  It is amazing how difficult it can sometimes be to get the needed attention and help to deal with something that was a genetic to you.  Yes you must also have your children tested so that they too can be informed especially for girls and child birth potential risks.  I found that a Functional Medicine Doctor and a Naturopath were my best help and advocates....you need the MD portion for getting tests ordered and covered by insurance.  Lastly....be very careful of the medicines that you are given....even over the counter ones....some can be deadly.  Check out the Floxie drugs for their dangerous potential.  Good luck....if you do your research you will be fully prepared to go forward with a lot less fear/concern and take this head on....
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I have the mthfr gene and found out 7 years ago after loosing twins in first trimester. I came across this post bc I have been having pvcs on and off for a couple years. I have noticed taking magnesium for over a month straight has helped some! I had event monitor, ekg, echo etc. i was told they are begnign and not to worry. It is hard having this issue when know one knows much about it! Have you heard anything?
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Avatar universal
My teenage son just tested positive for C677T. He had a TIA 3 years ago. This last year he's been having a lot of the TIA symptoms, just not a full TIA. His irregular heartbeat is really worrying me too. Cardiologists are still trying to find answers.
Desperately seeking help!
Helpful - 0
580765 tn?1274919360
I do take 81 mg Aspirin only.  I have no diagnosed heart issue, but hoping that after my 30 days on the event monitor are up- there are some answers.
I am wondering if there is some correlation between the MTHFR gene and complications from an irregular heart rhythm- causing TIAs.  I have been doing some reading in medical journals and have found that there is reach suggesting that there my be a genetic linkage between the MTHFR gene and certain types of heart conditions.  I was wondering if anyone on here had this gene and experienced the link between these two conditions- including repeated TIAs- like I have.
Like I said- no diagnosis yet, but after 8 years, I am educating myself to be my own advocate to make sure that I am not a mere number in the doctor's office.
I am hoping that this event monitor shows something that will bring an end to all of these episodes.
Thanks in advance to any help that can be offered.
Helpful - 0
612551 tn?1450022175
COMMUNITY LEADER
Are you taking any anticoagulants?  Sorry if I overlooked in your post.  Seems like an obvious need if there's any chance you are forming clots, so obvious, why do I mention? Well, it is all I have to offer at this time.

You didn't mention any specific heart rhythm issues or measures.  

This post will push your post back to the top, more time on page 1 may bring some helpful inputs.

Helpful - 0
187666 tn?1331173345
I've only seen one other person mention their problem with MTHFR and I don't remember who they were. Wish I could help. Perhaps someone will be able help you. Have you tried over on the Heart Disease forum?
Helpful - 0
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