Cardiac amyloidosis is a rare condition where abnormal protein (amyloid) accumulates in the heart which affects the heart’s performance. Cardiac amyloidosis is the most common type of restrictive cardiomyopathy. This condition could be inherited, or it can develop on its own. As a result of abnormal protein accumulation, the heart struggles to pump which eventually leads to heart failure and death.
Possible symptoms may include:
Shortness of breath during activity or at rest
Swelling in feet, legs, and ankles
Fatigue
Lightheadedness
dizziness
Heart palpitations
Enlarged neck vein
Unusual bruising
Enlarged tongue
Eye problems
Hearing problems
Numbness in arms or legs
Carpal tunnel syndrome
If you experience any of these symptoms, visit a General Practitioner (General Practice doctor), who might refer you to a Cardiologist, for proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent further complications.
Amyloid deposits replace healthy heart muscle in cardiac amyloidosis, often known as "stiff heart syndrome." It is the form of restrictive cardiomyopathy that is most prevalent. The heart's ability to carry electrical signals may be impacted by cardiac amyloidosis. This may cause incorrect cardiac signals and irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) (heart block).
The following factors are most likely to affect those who have this condition:
Age: this disorder is rare in people under the age of forty
Sex: men are more likely to develop this disorder than women
Regular dialysis for many years: the longer you have been receiving dialysis, the more likely it is that you'll experience cardiac amyloidosis symptoms.
Your cardiologist may request the following tests:
Chest or abdomen CT scan
Coronary angiography
Electrocardiogram
Echocardiogram
Cardiac MRI
Your cardiologist may tell you to limit salt in your diet in addition to prescribing some medicines like:
Medicines to treat heart failure (Ex: digoxin)
Diuretics (Ex: indapamide, bendroflumethiazide)
Anticoagulants. (Ex: warfarin)
Beta-blockers (Ex: atenolol, bisoprolol)
Anti-inflammatory (Ex: prednisone)
Get the answers you need, all in one place. Explore expert-written blogs, browse our extensive FAQs for quick answers to common concerns, or use our Symptom Checker for preliminary insights.
Need in-depth details? Our Disease Directory provides comprehensive information to help you understand conditions better.
Whatever you're looking for, we’re here to support your health journey, seamlessly and effortlessly.
Reviewed Blogs & Medical Guidelines
and Diseases Explained