Amyloidosis

Symptoms of people with amyloidosis vary widely. People with amyloidosis may experience the symptoms or signs listed below. Sometimes, people with amyloidosis do not show any of these symptoms. Or, these symptoms may be caused by another medical condition. If you are concerned about a symptom or sign on this list, please talk with your doctor.

Symptoms of amyloidosis are often determined by the organ or system that is affected by the protein buildup. For example:

• Amyloidosis in the kidneys will hinder the kidneys' ability to filter wastes and break down proteins. Therefore, large amounts of protein may be present in the urine, or the kidneys may fail to function.
• In the liver, amyloidosis may cause the liver to greatly increase in size and function abnormally.
• Amyloidosis of the heart may cause arrhythmia (irregular heart beat), enlarge the heart, and cause poor heart function.
• Amyloidosis of the gastrointestinal tract may cause problems with the digestion and absorption of food nutrients, bleeding, obstructions, and thickened tongue (macroglossia), as well as problems with the esophagus, including gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD).
• A goiter (a noncancerous enlargement of the thyroid gland) may result from amyloidosis of the thyroid gland.
• Problems breathing, including shortness of breath, may occur from amyloidosis in the lungs.
• Peripheral neuropathy, including numbness, weakness, and tingling of the arms or legs, may occur. Carpal tunnel syndrome may also occur.

Other general symptoms of amyloidosis include:

• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Anemia (low level of red blood cells)
• Weak hand grip
• Skin changes
• Clay-colored stools
• Joint pain

Your doctor will ask you questions about the symptoms you are experiencing to help find out the cause of the problem, called a diagnosis. This may include how long you've been experiencing the symptom(s) and how often.

Relieving symptoms and side effects is an important part of your care and treatment. This may also be called symptom management, palliative care, or supportive care. Be sure to talk with your health care team about symptoms you experience, including any new symptoms or a change in symptoms.