Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
What are the best ways to deal with a complex diagnosis? It is important to work with your physician, stick to a medication regimen, and follow any lifestyle changes that are recommended. A common question for those living with a complex disease like amyloidosis is what can I do at home to better manage my health?
While there's no cure for amyloidosis and medical intervention is crucial, there are certain steps you can take at home to help manage symptoms and support overall health. Here are some practical tips to consider!
Keep a Healthy Diet
One of the most important and accessible things you can do at home is make changes to your diet. Reducing salt intake, if recommended by your healthcare provider, can help slow the progression and severity of amyloidosis. Too much salt can lead to a buildup of fluid and worsen some symptoms.
Since amyloidosis often affects the digestive tract, it is important to keep a diet rich in fiber. High-fiber foods promote bowel health, proper digestion, and help with absorbing nutrients. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. A diet with a mix of different fruits and vegetables also helps with heart health. Potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, spinach, and sweet potatoes can help with cardiovascular health. This is particularly important because amyloidosis often impacts the heart. Try to include a rainbow of colorful produce in your daily diet.
Stay Active
If there is one thing that most doctors agree on, it is the health benefits you get from staying active. Exercise has been shown to improve cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and improve overall quality of life. Furthermore, the risk some of the complications that amyloidosis can cause, like heart failure and kidney failure, are mitigated by exercise.
For people living with amyloidosis, intense movement can be challenging! Fatigue and muscle weakness are two common side effects of the condition. However, light or moderate-intensity exercises like tai chi, yoga, or walking can help keep you moving without overexertion. Cycling and swimming are also great options. If you need extra motivation, consider a workout buddy for support! Make sure you talk about the best options with your doctor.
Get Quality Sleep
Daytime fatigue is one of the more common side effects of amyloidosis. The condition can make it hard to get a good night's sleep! No matter your age, sleep is one of the most important parts of both physical and mental health. It helps you combat infection, reduces injury risk, boosts your memory and learning ability, supports weight management and heart health, and increases your attention span.
It should come as no surprise then that getting enough rest is essential for anyone with amyloidosis. The condition places significant strain on your organs and systems. Too much strain can worsen symptoms and accelerate the progression of the disease. Try to prioritize rest and consider making lifestyle adjustments to minimize physical and emotional stressors. Avoid late night snacks, and turn off electronics two hours before bed. The light from your phone or the TV can cause your brain to stay active. Sleep in a dark room, and try to keep it cool! Consistency is the key to all of this. It may be hard at first to adjust your sleeping patterns. If you can keep going to bed and waking up at the same time, eventually your body will adjust.
These things you can do at home can help you manage amyloidosis. However, they are not substitutes for medical treatment. It is important to work closely with your doctor. Proper medical attention, lifestyle changes, and dietary adjustments can help improve your quality of life and reduce the impact of amyloidosis on your health.
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