How To Treat Familial Amyloid Polyneuropathy

Familial amyloid polyneuropathy (FAP), also called transthyretin, is a rare genetic disease that progresses over time. The condition occurs when a person has mutations in their TTR gene. Quite a few different mutations have been recorded to the TTR gene, which means symptoms for individuals with familial amyloid polyneuropathy will vary widely. Some individuals with gene mutations may not even show any symptoms. The TTR gene is responsible for creating a protein that transports thyroxine and vitamin A through the body. With familial amyloid polyneuropathy, a mutated protein causes amyloid deposits to form in different tissues. Typically, the eyes, kidneys, heart, and nerves are affected. As the protein slowly builds up, the organs become damaged. Reveal precisely how to treat familial amyloid polyneuropathy now.

Diuretics To Get Rid Of Water

Some treatments are meant to treat the underlying disease, while others treat the symptoms caused by the disease. Diuretics are often recommended if an individual experiences a common complication. When familial amyloid polyneuropathy has progressed significantly, the buildup of amyloid in the organs begins to have a severe impact on function. In the case of kidney or heart problems, the patient's body may retain more fluid than it's supposed to. The kidneys are responsible for helping individuals urinate. Impaired kidney function means an impaired ability to remove water from the body. Diuretics increase urination, which can help get rid of fluid buildup. This is an effective means of alleviating discomfort. It also helps keep the fluid retention from becoming potentially dangerous.

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Medication For Digestive Issues

Other digestive problems can arise as the buildup of protein in the patient's organs increases. There are quite a few over-the-counter medications for digestive issues. Patients buying any medication should always discuss their condition with a pharmacist and doctor. They should also talk to their doctor to make sure the new medication doesn't interfere with any medications they are currently taking. Doctors may prescribe medication for patients having chronic trouble with constipation or diarrhea to treat their digestive issues. This may be combined with other treatment methods for symptoms or the underlying disease.

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Liver Transplant

The liver is the main place where familial amyloid polyneuropathy occurs. The amyloid proteins that have become mutated are generated in a person's liver. Many medical professionals will suggest a liver transplant to treat the disease. With a new liver, the body will make amyloid proteins correctly. The disease tends to go away once the mutated liver is removed. When liver transplants are recommended, it's important to have them done while the disease is still in its early stages. You will be a less viable candidate for a transplant if the disease does permanent damage to your heart or nerves. In addition, organ damage cannot be reversed. A transplant stops the disease from progressing further, but it doesn't heal the damage that's already been done. Any eye, digestive, or heart problems will also often progress after a transplant.

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Compression Socks

The patient's body will often begin retaining more fluid as their kidneys and heart become damaged. Kidneys lose the ability to flush fluid out like they're supposed to. Fluid retention can show up in a lot of places in the body. Patients will often find their limbs swell up. Swollen feet and legs are common, as the fluid can pool there, which is where compression socks come in. They compress the legs to gently force fluid up and reduce swelling. If swelling and discomfort is a big problem, these socks might be a solution. Patients can find compression stockings in most pharmacies as well as online.

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Cut Down On Salt

Sodium increases fluid retention, so it's helpful for patients experiencing kidney or heart issues to cut down on salt. This generally means making lifestyle changes in one's diet. Patients can talk to their doctor about their nutritional needs. It may also help to consult a nutritionist, who can advise patients about the most nourishing foods with low sodium. Many prepackaged snack foods have high sodium levels, but many individuals are surprised by what other foods have high salt levels. Any preserved meat tends to be extremely salty, and most restaurants add copious salt to their portions for flavor. It might be hard to adjust to eating less salt, but it will eventually happen. Most patients will start feeling like high-sodium snack foods and restaurant portions are uncomfortably salty.