Symptoms of amyloidosis can vary greatly and depend largely upon the specific organs affected by the condition. Some of the most frequently reported symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, and weight loss. Numbness or tingling may occur and tend to primarily affect the hands and feet. Fluid retention, dizziness, and protein in the urine are also among the possible symptoms of amyloidosis. A doctor should be consulted concerning specific questions about potential symptoms of amyloidosis in an individual situation.
Amyloidosis can affect various organs of the body. There is a wide variety of possible symptoms, and no two patients will have the exact same experience. Fatigue and muscle weakness are among the most common symptoms of amyloidosis and may be accompanied by signs of nerve damage such as numbness or tingling. Peripheral neuropathy is a medical term used to describe this type of nerve damage and typically involves the hands and feet, although other parts of the body may be affected as well. The skin may begin to bruise more easily than normal, and minor injuries may take longer to heal.
Respiratory or cardiac issues may develop as symptoms of amyloidosis. Shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, or chest pain are possible indicators that this condition may be present. Congestive heart failure is a severe complication that may develop as a result of amyloidosis and requires aggressive medical treatment. Digestive problems such as decreased appetite, constipation, or unintentional weight loss are also common. A person affected by amyloidosis may become full after eating just a few bites of food, often causing a variety of nutritional deficiencies.
Tongue enlargement and difficulty swallowing are possible symptoms of amyloidosis. If the tongue swelling is extreme, it may become difficult or impossible to breathe through the mouth. The skin around the eyes sometimes develops a purple-colored rash known as purpura. This rash is normally harmless, although any severe facial swelling may require a brief hospital stay in order to prevent serious health complications from arising.
Nephrotic syndrome is among the most serious potential symptoms of amyloidosis and affects the functioning of the kidneys. This disorder causes abnormal amounts of protein to be leaked into the urine and can lead to permanent kidney damage. Swelling of the hands or feet, eye puffiness, and high blood pressure are often seen in those who suffer from nephrotic syndrome. In the most severe cases, dialysis or kidney transplantation may become necessary in order to preserve the life of the patient.
