Knowing These 6 Symptoms Of Kidney Amyloidosis Could Save Your Life

Jun 05, 2018

Amyloid is a protein found all over the body, but when there is a build up in one organ, it causes amyloidosis. This condition can be diagnosed in the heart, liver, nervous system, digestive tract, and kidneys. Depending on which organ is afflicted, symptoms can vary. Here's what you need to know about kidney amyloidosis. 

Your kidneys' main role is to act as the filter of your body. When any abnormalities occur in the kidneys, it can very quickly and easily turn fatal. Recognizing symptoms of kidney problems can save lives. Here are the most common symptoms of kidney amyloidosis: 

• Swelling in your body, specifically in your legs, which is caused by water retention 
• Puffy face 
• Swollen eyes 
• Unusual fatigue 
• Shortness of breath 
• Elevated levels of protein (albuminuria) in your urine 

If you have any of these symptoms, it's wise to seek professional medical attention immediately for further testing and a diagnosis. These symptoms can be caused by other problems in the kidneys, but any kidney-related health issue is very serious and must be treated immediately. After your doctor discovers the cause of your symptoms, they will prescribe appropriate medical treatment so you can return to feeling normal soon. 

There are a number of factors that can contribute to developing kidney amyloidosis. Here are the following factors that can increase your likelihood of developing this disease: 

• Old age 
• Being male (roughly 70% of diagnoses are in men) 
• Being on dialysis 
• Having African-American heritage 
• Having myeloma 
• Having an established family history of amyloidosis 

If you're experiencing any of the symptoms of kidney amyloidosis, your doctor will begin by reviewing your medical history and performing a physical exam. They will ask you to describe the symptoms you're experiencing and, if they also suspect kidney amyloidosis, they will order a blood or urine test. The lab will examine the levels of protein in your sample to see if they align with kidney amyloidosis. 

Although less common, your doctor may also recommend taking a biopsy. Your doctor will send the small tissue sample to the lab to determine which protein is causing your troubles. 

Another option is genetic testing. If your doctor orders a genetic test, then that means they want to see if your family has an established history of amyloidosis. 

Unfortunately, kidney amyloidosis doesn't have a cure, but it can be managed. The following treatments are some of the most common ways of treating kidney amyloidosis: 

• Steroids 
• Chemotherapy 
• Dialysis 
• Kidney transplant 

If you are diagnosed with kidney amyloidosis, your doctor will likely recommend that you make the following lifestyle changes to improve the quality of your life: 

• Limiting your sodium 
• Limiting your fluids 
• Limiting protein in your diet 
• Limiting foods high in cholesterol and saturated fats 

Make sure everyone you know is educated about this deadly condition by showing this article to your friends and family today! 

Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation with your doctor. Your health is important to us!