Transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) is a condition in which misfolded proteins accumulate in the heart, disrupting its normal function. If left untreated, accumulative heart disease can result in heart failure and even death.
Many of the symptoms associated with ATTR-CM are directly related to the deterioration of the heart muscles’ efficiency to pump oxygenated blood throughout the body.
What is ATTR-CM?
Transthyretin amyloidosis cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) is a rare progressive disease of the heart muscle that leads to congestive heart failure. It occurs when the transthyretin protein produced by the liver is unstable. Symptoms include fatigue; shortness of breath; irregular heart rate or palpitations; swelling of the legs, ankles and stomach; brain fog; wheezing; and dizziness. It often goes underdiagnosed because of a lack of awareness and knowledge of the disease. There is currently no cure for ATTR-CM.
When blood does not get to your muscles and organs in an effective manner, you may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue. These symptoms are also typically present in patients who have heart failure unrelated to ATTR-CM.
Read more about ATTR-CM signs and symptoms
Why ATTR-CM causes fatigue
Symptoms of fatigue can be seen as a reflection of disease severity. The more advanced heart disease you have, the more likely you are to feel tired, as oxygen is vital for energy replenishment.
When blood containing fresh oxygen does not get to the rest of your body in a timely manner, you are more likely to become exhausted, even when carrying out simple activities of daily living.
Medications that may help
Fatigue in ATTR-CM is often directly the result of a weakened heart, so taking the medications prescribed to you may help with some of your symptoms. The medications that may be prescribed depend on your unique circumstance and whether they are available.
One of the most commonly prescribed drugs in ATTR-CM is tafamidis. It stabilizes the structure of transthyretin proteins and prevents its accumulation in the heart. Studies show that it is effective in reducing hospitalizations and improving overall long-term outcomes.
It is important to note that ATTR-CM is currently incurable. This means that there is no one drug that can stop disease progression indefinitely.
Other strategies
Scientists continue to study new experimental therapies that may have a significant effect on the disorder, but it is unlikely that any curative therapies will be approved in the near future.
One of the best ways to manage fatigue is to talk to your doctor. Fatigue is a common problem across many diseases, so remember that you are not alone. Your doctor may suggest some tips to reduce fatigue in your life, such as proper nutrition and getting enough sleep. In addition, some physical exercise may relieve symptoms of fatigue.
If fatigue significantly affects your ability to work, your doctor may be able to write a letter to your employer about your condition and the physical limitations that you have as a result. You may need to adjust your daily rhythms to deal with fatigue, especially if you find that it constantly interferes with your life.
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