Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy Symptoms: numbness, fatigue, giddiness, swelling

Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) - Symptoms

Depending on the location and extent of the abnormal protein infiltration, initial symptoms and presentation may vary. In the early disease stage, patient may not have many symptoms. As protein accumulates in the heart muscle causing it to become stiff and thick, patients can gradually develop symptoms such as difficulty breathing (especially on walking or lying flat), leg or abdominal swelling, reduced stamina and fatigue. If the misshapen protein accumulates on the conduction system of the heart, irregular heart rhythm or excessively slow heartbeat may occur. This may cause the patient to feel giddy, faint or have palpitations.

Deposition of protein onto the tendons may cause backaches, numbness of hand and legs. If the nerve gets affected, patient may experience tingling sensation or pain in the feet as well. Some patients develop loss of weight and bloating. Foamy urine can also occur if the abnormal protein deposits in the kidneys.

Overall, symptoms may be non-specific and common to many other disease conditions. This may have contributed to underdiagnosis of ATTR-CM.

In summary, the symptoms for ATTR-CM may include: