Mended Hearts Open Forum

Is It More Than Just Heart Failure?

Know the Signs of ATTR Cardiac Amyloidosis

ATTR cardiac amyloidosis is a serious and under-diagnosed disease that makes the heart muscle stiff. Its symptoms can mimic common heart failure, but key clues often appear in other parts of the body-sometimes years earlier.

Key Heart Symptoms:

• Shortness of breath (especially when active or lying down)

• Extreme fatigue and weakness

• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen

• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations

• Feeling faint or dizzy

Look for Other Clues: Symptoms in other areas can be important clues. Have you also experienced:

• Carpal Tunnel, especially bilateral

• Spinal Stenosis 

• Numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands or feet

• Unexplained gastrointestinal issues (like diarrhea or constipation)

• A history of a torn biceps tendon, trigger fingers

If these symptoms sound familiar, don't ignore them. Talk to your doctor about your complete symptom history and ask if it could be ATTR cardiac amyloidosis.