To Inspire, Support and Educate Heart Patients and Caregivers

Healing Hearts of Central Ohio supports heart patients, caregivers and healthcare providers. They want to thank the Ohio Legislature for designating March as Cardiac Amyloidosis Awareness Month because too often this rare disease is missed in diagnosis.

Cardiac Amyloidosis is a rare and serious disease that occurs when an abnormal protein builds up in organs, including the heart, kidneys, and digestive tract. This build-up interferes with the way these organs can function. Some types of Amyloidosis are inherited, and some are caused by other illnesses or treatments, such as rheumatoid arthritis or dialysis.

Because it is rare, patients may not display any symptoms of Amyloidosis, or they may experience very common symptoms such as extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, weight loss, or irregular heartbeat. Another common symptom that may cause a delay in your diagnosis – carpal tunnel syndrome! Some types of Amyloidosis, especially cardiac, can lead to death.

Who develops Amyloidosis?

Amyloidosis typically impacts older individuals between the ages of 60 and 70, and it occurs more commonly in men. In addition, individuals of African descent are prone to a genetic mutation that puts them more at risk of developing cardiac amyloidosis.

Amyloidosis is often diagnosed when the disease has become advanced or while in treatment for another illness. While some drastic treatments include chemotherapy, organ or stem cell transplants, there are now prescriptions medications that assist with controlling symptoms and reducing the presence of amyloid proteins.

Want to learn more?

In November 2019, more than 80 members of Healing Hearts gathered to hear from Dr. Ajay Vallakati, a researcher and expert in Amyloidosis who practices at The Ohio State University. Click here to see Dr. Vallakati’s presentation.

If you would like to learn more about Cardiac Amyloidosis, please speak with your healthcare provider. Additional information can be found on the Amyloidosis Foundation website at www.Amyloidosis.org.

Heart patients, family members and caregivers from across Central Ohio are invited to join Healing Hearts. www.healingheartscentralohio.org