Let us start by stating a staggering fact about amyloidosis: Nearly 70% of individuals diagnosed with amyloidosis are male. Amyloidosis is a condition that some other chronic conditions can cause, though it can also exist independently. Irrespective of the cause, the healthcare professional is the best to decide on the amyloidosis treatment. Let us take a deeper look at how it is treated.
What is the Treatment for Amyloidosis?
Various doctors team up to devise a treatment plan for a patient with amyloidosis, as the condition impacts many organs. They work together as a multidisciplinary team. There is no ultimate cure for this disease. However, amyloid treatment reduces the symptoms associated with it. The different modalities of treatment are:
Chemotherapy: In treating AL amyloidosis, chemotherapy targets abnormal cell growth. These cancer drugs are designed to interrupt the production of the problematic protein that forms amyloid. By impeding the development of these abnormal cells, chemotherapy aims to slow down or stop the progression of the disease.
Heart medication: Another approach involves medication. Blood thinners may be prescribed to reduce the risk of clots, and drugs that regulate the heart rate can help maintain a healthy cardiac rhythm. Furthermore, certain medications that increase urination may be used to alleviate strain on the heart and kidneys.
Targeted therapies: While deploying targeted therapies for amyloidosis, specific drugs are prescribed to interfere with the underlying genetic issues causing amyloid production. Patisiran and Inotersen, for example, are designed to disrupt the faulty gene commands responsible for the creation of amyloid.
Besides these medications, surgical and related procedures are also deployed. An organ transplant may be suggested if the disease severely damages any organ. Dialysis is also administered in cases where the kidneys are affected. A process called autologous blood stem cell transplant is also used.
Here's how it works: first, your stem cells are collected from your blood through a vein. These cells are temporarily stored while you undergo strong chemotherapy. Afterward, the stored stem cells are restored into your body through a vein.
Conclusion
It is to treat amyloidosis at the right time, lest it should progress to prove fatal. Also, invest in health insurance to secure yourself from financial burdens in a medical emergency, including amyloidosis.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.