Can amyloidosis cause breathing problems and foot swelling?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 58-year-old man, and for the past few months, I have been feeling run down. My ankles are swollen, and it is getting harder to catch my breath, even just walking to the mailbox. My doctor ran some tests because he was worried about my heart, but then he mentioned something called amyloidosis. He said it is rare and that proteins are building up in my organs. I am lost. What is this condition? Is it serious? And how do we even know which organs are affected? I am worried it might be my heart since I am so tired all the time. Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Amyloidosis is a condition where abnormal proteins, called amyloid, build up in your organs and tissues. These proteins can interfere with the normal function of affected organs.

The types of amyloidosis are:
Primary amyloidosis is caused by an abnormality in plasma cells, producing abnormal light chains that form amyloid.
Secondary amyloidosis usually occurs in response to a chronic inflammatory condition.
Hereditary amyloidosis is a form of systemic amyloidosis caused by inherited gene mutation.

The symptoms of amyloidosis are:

Fatigue.
Shortness of breath.
Swollen ankles.
Irregular heartbeat.
Low blood pressure.
Protein in the urine.
Kidney failure.
Enlarged livers are associated with pain and liver dysfunction.
Numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and feet.
Diarrhea, constipation, and difficulty swallowing.

The tests commonly done for diagnosing amyloidosis are:

Blood and urine tests are used to detect abnormal proteins.
A biopsy of a tissue sample from an affected organ is examined for amyloid deposits.

The treatment depends on the type and extent of amyloidosis and the organs affected.

Also, in the case of amyloidosis, I suggest you get physically examined by a doctor.

I hope this information will help you.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.