Amyloidosis is a rare and potentially terminal disease caused by the build-up up of amyloid proteins (abnormal or mutated proteins) in the tissues of the body. Depending on the type of amyloidosis a person is afflicted with, either one organ can be affected, or an entire system of organs. Consequently, a wide range of symptoms can occur, as well as a number of resulting secondary conditions (such as carpal tunnel syndrome, diabetes, congestive heart failure, and kidney failure) can result from amyloidosis.

Because of the diverse nature of the condition of amyloidosis, there are a myriad of signs and symptoms of amyloidosis that can occur. What symptoms of amyloidosis a person experiences really depend on what organs the disease is affecting. And because of the range of potential signs and symptoms that can arise, it can be difficult for a doctor to diagnose. It is even possible to be asymptomatic (not having any symptoms at all).

Here are some of the signs and symptoms that can be linked to amyloidosis:
- Leg and ankle swelling (edema)
- Weakness and extreme fatigue
- Sudden weight loss
- Shortness of breath, tiring easily when trying to exert self
- Numbness or tingling in the lower extremities (fingers and toes)
- An extremely swollen or enlarged tongue
- Changes in skin appearance
- Severs diarrhea or constipation
- Difficulty swallowing

This array of the symptoms is a demonstration of the many organs and systems that amyloidosis can affect and damage. And while most of these symptoms might be a sign of some other, potentially less-serious, ailment, they should not be taken for granted.

When symptoms occur, it is important to consult a doctor. The doctor will likely conduct a physical examination, as well as run a battery of tests, in order to rule out other possible illnesses. Basic blood and urine tests can detect the presence of anomalous proteins in the body. However, in order to unmistakably test for and diagnose amyloidosis, a biopsy needs to be performed.

During the biopsy, the doctor will remove a small amount of tissue with a needle, using a local anesthetic. This procedure can be done on an outpatient basis. If the doctor thinks that it could be a case of systemic amyloidosis, meaning it affects more than just one organ, tissue can be collected from the abdomen, bone marrow, or rectum. In cases where tissue samples need to be obtained from specific organs, such as the kidneys or liver, hospitalization will be required for the biopsy.

Irregular bodily occurrences, pains, or changes should never be ignored. Many of the symptoms discussed here are the body’s way of saying that something is wrong. It is important to know the body, and to be able to acknowledge when something is wrong. While there is no cure for amyloidosis, it is treatable. It can also be a signal that something else is wrong in the body. Many of the conditions that occur as a result of amyloidosis can be treated and cured.

Tags: Health and Fitness