Cardiac amyloidosis is a hidden cause of heart failure. Learn about its symptoms, why it’s misdiagnosed, and how early detection could save your life, according to top cardiologists.

A warning from heart transplant cardiologist Dr. Dmitry Yaranov is gaining attention online—and for good reason. In a recent Instagram post, Dr. Yaranov (@heart_transplant_doc) revealed that cardiac amyloidosis is one of the most overlooked causes of heart failure today. This condition, he says, is “still flying under the radar,” even though it can slowly destroy the heart from the inside out.

RELATED: Protect Your Brain After 60: What You Need to Know

What Is Cardiac Amyloidosis?

Cardiac amyloidosis occurs when abnormal proteins—called amyloids—build up in the heart tissue. Over time, these proteins stiffen the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. If left undiagnosed, the condition may progress quietly and lead to irreversible heart failure.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are multiple types of cardiac amyloidosis. Some are hereditary, while others develop later in life, typically after age 50. However, younger individuals can also be affected.

A 2022 screening study highlighted the seriousness of this condition, revealing that one in four African-American men over 60 referred for unexplained heart failure had amyloid deposits in their hearts.

Why Is It So Often Missed?

Dr. Yaranov explains that cardiac amyloidosis is frequently misdiagnosed. “Most people are misdiagnosed for years,” he writes. “They’re told it’s ‘hypertension,’ ‘age,’ or ‘just back pain.’ They bounce from clinic to clinic… while the heart quietly declines.”

The American College of Cardiology supports this concern, noting that symptoms can be subtle and mimic other common health problems.

RELATED: Protect Your Brain After 60: What You Need to Know

Symptoms to Watch For

Although often underdiagnosed, cardiac amyloidosis has several warning signs. According to Dr. Yaranov and the Cleveland Clinic, common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath

• Unexplained fatigue

• Swelling in legs, ankles, or abdomen

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Spinal stenosis

• Low voltage on EKG

• Thickened heart walls on echocardiogram

• Heart palpitations

• Numbness or tingling in the limbs

• Swollen tongue

• Bruising easily

• Enlarged neck veins

• Kidney and liver issues

• Eye or hearing problems

What to Do If You Suspect Amyloidosis

Dr. Yaranov urges patients with unexplained symptoms to speak with their doctors about amyloidosis. Early detection is critical. Non-invasive screening methods—such as a technetium pyrophosphate scan or blood and urine light-chain tests—are recommended by both the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology.

If diagnosed, treatment options include medications, chemotherapy, or in severe cases, heart transplants.

RELATED: 4 Supplements That Can Boost Your Mood, Proven by Science

Bottom Line: Early Detection Can Save Lives

“This isn’t rare,” Dr. Yaranov emphasizes. “It’s just rarely diagnosed.” With heart disease still the leading cause of death in the U.S., recognizing the signs of cardiac amyloidosis early could make all the difference.

Don’t ignore persistent symptoms. Talk to your doctor, request appropriate tests, and protect your heart.