3. Shortness of Breath: The Hidden Link to Heart and Lung Involvement
Shortness of breath is another symptom that can be indicative of amyloidosis in women. This can be due to amyloid deposits affecting the heart, lungs, or both. As mentioned previously, cardiac amyloidosis occurs when amyloid proteins accumulate in the heart tissue, impairing its ability to pump blood efficiently. This can lead to a buildup of fluid in the lungs, causing shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or when lying down.
Amyloidosis can also affect the lungs directly, resulting in a condition called pulmonary amyloidosis. In this case, amyloid deposits in the lung tissue can cause inflammation, scarring, and reduced lung function. This, in turn, can lead to shortness of breath and a persistent cough.
If you’re experiencing shortness of breath, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling in the legs or chest pain, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. While shortness of breath can be attributed to various causes, it’s important to rule out amyloidosis to ensure appropriate treatment is initiated promptly. (3)
