Symptom 12. Kidney Problems: Early Warning Signs of Amyloidosis Affecting the Kidneys
The kidneys, vital organs responsible for filtering waste and maintaining fluid balance in the body, can be affected by amyloidosis. When amyloid proteins deposit in the kidney tissues, it can lead to various kidney problems, which, if left untreated, can have serious consequences.
One of the early warning signs of amyloidosis affecting the kidneys is proteinuria, the presence of excess protein in the urine. The abnormal deposition of amyloid proteins in the kidneys can impair their filtering function, allowing proteins to leak into the urine. This can be detected through urine tests, where increased levels of protein are observed.
Another common kidney problem associated with amyloidosis is a decline in kidney function, known as renal insufficiency or renal impairment. As amyloid deposits accumulate and affect the kidney tissues, they can hinder the kidneys’ ability to effectively filter waste products from the blood. This can lead to a gradual decline in kidney function, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, fluid retention, and changes in urine output. (12)