Uzinform

How Alcohol Affects PV

PV is part of a group of rare chronic blood cancers called myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). While strong scientific evidence has linked alcohol consumption to an increased risk for several cancers, MPNs are not among them.

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 Drinking alcohol can, though, worsen PV symptoms and lead to complications in some people.

“Some patients find that alcohol can trigger or worsen headaches, flushing, dizziness, or itching,” says Dr. Gerds. “The impact varies considerably from person to person. Some individuals notice no difference, while others find that even small amounts can aggravate symptoms.”

Alcohol and Blood Clot Risk

Alcohol is a diuretic and can contribute to dehydration, which amplifies the already high risk of blood clots that you have with PV.

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This cancer causes your body to make too many red blood cells, so your blood thickens and doesn’t flow properly. This can lead to the formation of blood clots inside your veins or arteries. A clot can then block blood flow, causing a heart attack, stroke, or pulmonary embolism.

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Dehydration doesn’t change your number of red blood cells, but it reduces the amount of liquid in your blood, so it becomes more concentrated and thicker.

“While moderate alcohol consumption has not been shown to specifically increase clotting risk in PV, heavy alcohol use can contribute to dehydration and other health issues that may negatively affect overall cardiovascular health,” Gerds says.

Award-winning journalist Katie Couric has opened up about experiencing an incident of temporary memory loss. In a Substack post titled “The Day I’ll Never Remember,” Couric detailed a day in late June 2026 that never completely registered in her memory.

Physicians later diagnosed the 69-year-old with a condition called transient global amnesia.

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Couric explained in the post that she remembers walking to a local farmer’s market that day, eating cereal, and getting dressed for the Aspen Ideas Festival. Her husband, John Molner, then drove her to the event. “That’s the last thing I remember,” she wrote.

Couric moderated a panel at the event, and served as a panelist on another. “I remember nothing from either panel,” she said. Couric also noted that she has “no idea” what was discussed or what happened when the panels were over.

But while Molner didn’t notice Couric behaving unusually, an intern told him that his wife wasn’t feeling well. She was taken to a local hospital for an evaluation. There, she couldn’t remember the names of some of her grandchildren or her daughter’s boyfriend. Couric also wasn’t sure of the month and thought it was 2024. “I believed Joe Biden was president,” she added.

Couric received an MRI to see if she had experienced a stroke — she hadn’t. Doctors then diagnosed her with transient global amnesia and told her that her memory would return the next day.

Couric said the incident was “freaky,” adding that she’s “relieved” that her memory loss was not due to something more serious. But her experience is raising questions about what exactly transient global amnesia is, and whether it should cause real concern.

What Is Transient Global Amnesia?

Transient global amnesia is a sudden, temporary breakdown in the brain’s ability to make new memories, according to Davide Cappon, PhD, a psychologist and director of neuropsychology at Tufts Medical Center in Boston.

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“The person is usually awake, alert, speaking normally, and still knows who they are, but they may be unable to remember what just happened and may ask the same question over and over because the answer does not ‘stick,’” Dr. Cappon says.

Symptoms can vary. In addition to memory loss, people may experience a headache, elevated blood pressure, and dizziness.

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Transient global amnesia is usually considered harmless. While it is more likely to affect middle- and older-aged adults, transient global amnesia is not considered a typical “senior moment,” Cappon says.

Transient global amnesia is considered a rare condition, “but not exceedingly rare,” Cappon says. It impacts about 5 to 10 people per 100,000 each year in America.

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What Causes Transient Global Amnesia?

Scientists are still learning about why some people develop transient global amnesia. “We do not think of transient global amnesia as dementia, and in most cases it is not a stroke,” Cappon says. “The exact mechanism is still not fully understood.”

However, he says that transient global amnesia is likely a temporary disruption of memory circuits, especially in the hippocampus, the brain structure that helps people form new memories. “Episodes can occur after physical strain, emotional stress, pain, sudden immersion in cold or hot water, sexual activity, or other physiologic stressors,” Cappon says. “A history of migraine also seems to increase risk.”

A scientific analysis published in 2025 in the Journal of the Neurological Sciences analyzed data from 162 patients who were diagnosed with transient global amnesia. The researchers discovered that the condition was most common in people who recently experienced emotional stress or physical activity.

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“The most common instances I have seen of transient global amnesia occurred after episodes causing increased life stress,” says Clifford Segil, DO, a neurologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California. “I have seen this when stockbrokers have lost money, homeowners’ homes have burned, people have been arrested, and after folks were caught philandering. I have also seen it arise out of the blue without any provocation.”

People with transient global amnesia should have basic blood work done to make sure they’re not dehydrated — that can cause confusion, too, Dr. Segil says.

How Long Does Transient Global Amnesia Typically Last?

Every person experiences transient global amnesia differently. However, “Most episodes last a few hours and resolve [get better] the same day,” Cappon says. “By definition, symptoms should clear within 24 hours.”

The person who experienced transient global amnesia “usually returns to baseline, but often has a permanent blank spot for the episode itself,” Cappon says.

Is It a Symptom of a Larger Cognitive Issue?

Transient global amnesia can be confusing and scary for the person who experiences it. However, Cappon says it’s not considered a sign of a bigger cognitive issue.

“Classic transient global amnesia is generally considered benign and does not mean someone has Alzheimer’s disease,” he says.

Still, Segil says it’s important to have a full medical evaluation after experiencing transient global amnesia to make sure nothing else is going on. “It can herald something medically concerning and it can be the tip of a medical iceberg,” he says.

Are Temporary Amnesia Episodes Likely to Happen Again?

Most people who experience transient global amnesia will not have an episode again. One scientific analysis of 36 studies on people with transient global amnesia found that 544 patients out of 4,514 (or nearly 13 percent) experienced the condition more than once.

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The researchers discovered a link between sexual activity and more than one episode of transient global amnesia. People with a personal history of migraine and depression were also more likely to experience the condition again.

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What to Do if You Suddenly Can’t Remember the Year or Names of Loved Ones

This is a concerning symptom, according to Cappon. “No one should diagnose this at home,” he says.

In addition to transient global amnesia, sudden memory loss can also be caused by stroke, seizure, head injury, medication, infection, or metabolic issues, per Cappon. If you experience this, he recommends visiting your local emergency room for an evaluation.

“It needs urgent medical evaluation the first time it happens,” Cappon says.

“Fatigue for someone with COPD can be caused by low blood oxygen, a higher amount of energy needed for breathing, poor sleep, being out of shape, depressed mood, and possible cardiovascular disease,” says Jimmy Johannes, MD, a pulmonologist and critical care medicine specialist at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center in California.

Because it can be challenging to address all these variables, a good first step toward having more energy is to adjust daily habits in meaningful ways, he says.

1. Pace Yourself and Sit During Daily Activities

The key with COPD is energy conservation. It can be useful to visualize yourself as having a certain “bank” of energy for the day and to be savvy about how you make “withdrawals.” That might mean modifying daily routines so each task takes less energy.

For example, consider sitting while showering (using a sturdy shower chair) and while brushing your teeth, says Dr. Johannes. You can also sit while doing chores like folding laundry, washing dishes, or weeding a garden bed.

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Even when sitting, pay attention to how long it takes before you start feeling tired, and get in the habit of scheduling breaks for yourself before it gets to that point. For instance, if you usually feel drained after 20 minutes of a task, plan to take a break after 15 minutes (before you are exhausted).

Pacing yourself also means spacing out energy-intensive tasks throughout the week, Johannes says. Trying to go to a doctor’s appointment, do some grocery shopping, and drop off packages at the post office during one outing will likely be especially taxing. Even if it’s convenient to pack activities like these into one day, you’ll likely be more breathless by the time you get home, he says.

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2. Use Assistive Devices

• Walker or rollator with a seat, which can be used to take a break while walking
• Mobility scooter for shopping
• Shower chair and grab bars
• Handheld shower head to limit raising the arms overhead when washing your hair
• Raised toilet seat to make sitting and standing easier
• Long-handled shoehorn and sock aid to reduce bending over
• Wheeled cart to move items around the home

Smart home assistants can also be useful, since you can use voice commands to play music, adjust the thermostat, turn on lights, and lock the door, all while minimizing physical exertion. All these items can conserve energy while helping you feel more independent and in control, says Johannes.

3. Consider Pulmonary Rehab

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a specialized program that’s like physical therapy for your lungs. It can be a crucial way to improve energy levels and learn about the tools, habits, and breathing exercises needed to sustain this improved energy.

“This supervised exercise and education program helps those with COPD improve cardiopulmonary conditioning, improve muscle strength, and improve confidence with day-to-day activities,” says Johannes. “It can also teach about adaptations like pursed-lip breathing, taking frequent breaks, and using supplemental oxygen when needed.”

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Symptoms such as persistent coughing, fatigue, and shortness of breath can make daily life with bronchiectasis difficult. This chronic lung condition occurs when damage enlarges your airways, making it hard to clear out mucus, which can cause frequent infections as bacteria grows.

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While there isn’t a cure, it can be managed with treatment and lifestyle modifications.

That’s why the daily habits you incorporate into your life matter. Small, repeatable practices — like hydrating adequately, making time for exercise, and tracking your symptoms — can help you spot changes before they turn into a flare.

These habits don’t replace conventional treatment, like using airway clearance techniques, taking your prescription medications, or checking-in regularly with your healthcare team, but they can work alongside your treatment plan to help you feel more stable and supported day-to-day.

1. Exercise

Exercise should be a habit for nearly everyone because of its general health benefits, but when you have bronchiectasis, it can also help make airway clearance easier. That’s because exercise encourages deeper breaths, warms up the body, and loosens mucus, which may make it easier to cough out afterward.

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“Being active is really important. We’re not exercising in the sense of training for the Olympics — it’s about movement and some physical activity,” says Timothy Aksamit, MD, a pulmonologist at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, and the medical director of the Bronchiectasis and NTM [Nontuberculous Mycobacteria] Association.

Examples of exercise you can incorporate into your daily life include walking, cycling, swimming, and resistance training to build strength.

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Dr. Aksamit says exercises that involve deep breathing, including yoga and tai chi, can be “great for the lungs,” while pulmonary rehabilitation, in the form of exercise classes geared toward people with lung conditions, may help some people rebuild strength and return to physical activity.

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The best starting point depends on your symptoms, fitness level, oxygen needs, and other health conditions, says Panagis Galiatsatos, MD, a pulmonary and critical care medicine physician at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore and a national spokesperson for the American Lung Association. Talk to your doctor about what a realistic starting point looks like, and ask for a referral to a physical therapist if you’d benefit from additional guidance. Aim for around 20 to 30 minutes of exercise per day.

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2. Hydration

Water helps thin sticky mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough out. So while it may not be as crucial as the daily airway clearance you perform, it can help with mucus management, as well as your overall health.

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“Hydration is huge,” Dr. Galiatsatos says. “If you’re dehydrated, those lung secretions will be much more viscous, thicker, and harder to cough out.”

Acid reflux is common in people with bronchiectasis, and it can be a trigger for symptoms, too, says Sebastian Kurz, MD, PhD, an associate professor at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut, where he specializes in inflammatory airways disease and lung infections, including bronchiectasis.

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Keeping this in mind, he cautions against drinking large amount of fluids right before exercise or airway clearance, because a full stomach may worsen backwash into the airway.Instead, keep a water bottle nearby and spread fluids out over the day. Aim for 8 to 10 8-ounce glasses of water.

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3. Infection Prevention Habits

Respiratory infections can be more serious for people with bronchiectasis, so prevention is both a daily habit and one for times of high spread, Dr. Kurz says.

“Anybody who has an airway disease — and other forms of lung diseases — are much more vulnerable to severe respiratory infections. And we know that viruses, for instance, play a crucial role for [flares],” he says.

That doesn’t mean you should live in fear of germs. Here’s how you can safeguard your health.

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• Stay up-to-date on vaccines, including regular flu and COVID-19 vaccines, plus any others your doctor may recommend, such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), pneumococcal disease, and tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap).

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• Wash your hands regularly.
• Wear a high-quality mask (like N95 or KN95) in crowded indoor spaces when rates of flu, COVID-19, RSV, or other viruses are high.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

“All of these are highly recommended measures to minimize exposure,” Kurz says.

This habit also includes avoiding smoking and vaping, which add another burden to lungs already dealing with mucus and bacteria, Galiatsatos says. It’s also a good idea to avoid air pollution and toxic chemical fumes.

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4. Daily Symptom Check-Ins

A brief daily check-in can help you notice changes early without becoming laser-focused on every sensation, Aksamit says.

Ask yourself: Am I coughing more than usual? Is my mucus thicker, darker, or a different color? Is there more sputum than usual? Do I feel more shortness of breath, fatigue, or chest pain?

The color of your mucus, for example, can provide telltale signs, he says, noting that darker, thicker mucus can indicate inflammation and disease activity.

Mention changes to your healthcare team, especially if you notice increased cough, mucus that is bloody or a different color, fever, fatigue, unintentional weight loss or loss of appetite, or worsening shortness of breath.

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5. Rest and Recovery

Bronchiectasis care can be physically and emotionally tiring. Airway clearance takes time, symptoms often interrupt sleep, and flares can leave you drained. Taking pauses for rest and recovery is a necessary part of living with a chronic lung condition, Kurz says.

Practice good sleep hygiene habits, such as using blackout curtains or an eye mask, unplugging from screens two hours before bedtime, and aiming for a consistent bedtime schedule.

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And look after your mental health, Aksamit says. Talk to your doctor if you’re grappling with stress, anxiety, or feelings of sadness; they may refer you to specialized mental health services, he says. You can also join bronchiectasis support groups or open up to a close family member or friend about how you’re feeling.

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“The impact of bronchiectasis with the symptoms, recurrent infections, and treatment can have a very substantial impact on mental health, which needs to be addressed,” he says. “It really can take a toll, not surprisingly, on patients, and their families, and their relationships.”

How to Build a Habit Routine That Sticks

Start with a single habit, then add others one at a time. Stack habits by adding a new habit to an existing one: You can exercise, then do your morning airway clearance before breakfast, for example, Aksamit says. But for some people, adding a new habit to an evening routine is preferred because of childcare, early working hours, or other commitments.

The key is to build a routine around what works best for your household, he says. “It has to fit that patient’s schedule, in a cadence that works well for them,” he says.

If a full routine feels overwhelming, talk to your healthcare team about how to make it more realistic, Galiatsatos says.

Editor’s Note: In May 2026, the Endocrine Society and other international experts officially renamed polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). This change better reflects the condition’s nature as a systemic metabolic disorder. This article has been updated to reflect the new terminology. Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) , formerly known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is a hormonal disorder that affects up to 13 percent of women of reproductive age. This disorder commonly causes symptoms such as irregular periods , increased facial and body hair, acne, scalp hair thinning, weight gain, and infertility .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295a95b0e6-d7b8-4666-b6fb-dfefccd93db5 Researchers don’t know exactly what causes PMOS, but some key factors, like genes, stress, and hormones, may play a role.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c68aa907-7833-4079-99e0-a431119cbe5e Here’s what research says about the potential causes of PMOS.
Insulin Resistance Insulin Resistance Another hormone that may be involved in PMOS is insulin .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629befa737e-fe69-4fae-aa12-04b901c21c85 Insulin helps the body’s cells uptake glucose from the blood and use it as energy.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762953043237-bcd3-4c97-bb60-ef7fcea3f0fb Some people have an increased tolerance to insulin, exacerbated by obesity, so they don’t respond to the hormone as well as they should. This condition is called insulin resistance .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292dac364e-ba99-460b-a61c-ac33dac52219 About 50 to 90 percent of people with PMOS have it.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762932e29dd1-74ab-4bb3-979e-217210795e5f With insulin resistance, blood glucose levels go up, which makes the body produce more and more insulin as it tries to compensate for the high blood glucose.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c14f6e02-1cc5-4e35-a5a3-8a10dd10c31f When insulin levels are high, and a person has insulin resistance, androgens also rise. This is because insulin suppresses the production of a protein that binds to androgens and other sex hormones, leaving more free androgens available.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a942fe15-e91e-45b2-9241-130fc254d0b8 Higher androgen levels, in turn, may cause more symptoms of PMOS.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629157d0247-7264-42f8-8c17-384d229966bd
Resources We Trust Cleveland Clinic: Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development: PCOS ResourcesJohn Hopkins Medicine: PMOS DietOffice on Women’s Health: Stress and Your Health
Hormones Hormonal Imbalances An imbalance of sex hormones also seems to contribute to the development of PMOS. Women with PMOS commonly have higher levels of male sex hormones, called androgens.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762906562acb-e4e5-4d9f-9793-6da0d919974d Hyperactive gonadotropin-releasing neurons from the hypothalamus lead to the release of more luteinizing hormone (which stimulates the ovaries to produce excess testosterone) and less follicle-stimulating hormone, which results in an excess production of androgens and blocks normal ovulation.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762954b3ba9e-48fd-42d8-8407-190ecaea8cc4 Excess androgens may:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629efa8d35f-1b57-4484-ac5e-0a51acdeec5ae60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762979e9cc11-184d-45a8-81f7-26caec2e0994 Disrupt ovulation, which can cause irregular periods or no periods at all Stop the ovarian follicles (which typically hold immature eggs) from developing normally Cause extra hair growth on the face or body and hair loss on the scalp Lead to severe acne
Stress Stress Stress and anxiety can contribute to PMOS by raising levels of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. People with PMOS tend to have higher stress levels, research suggests.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293a999705-726a-4be7-9c7c-9e4fbcc591c9 High cortisol levels from heightened stress may make it harder for your body to use insulin.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296b58e734-6725-4330-aa8d-35fd589c88ad This may worsen PMOS.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ecba5980-e31f-4995-8586-88fe344d478c To help manage PMOS after receiving a diagnosis, try to prioritize rest, relaxation, and other strategies for stress relief .
Obesity Obesity Obesity is common among people with PMOS, affecting 38 to 88 percent of those with the disorder.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ed445a30-04ec-4794-b95c-a0ef07c4a19a The link between obesity and PMOS is complex. While it isn’t entirely clear which one causes the other, the two are very closely linked: Obesity seems to increase PMOS risk, and vice versa.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292e344ca1-620d-4f06-ad57-ef8dd979ed22 Insulin resistance also plays a role. It’s more difficult to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight with insulin resistance. And in turn, excess fat causes your body to produce more insulin.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298a9a678f-31d0-420e-9da1-64f2ee2ace84 A strong genetic component to obesity may be at play here too. Studies suggest that genes associated with fat mass and obesity are involved in PMOS. It may be the case that people with a genetic predisposition toward obesity are also more prone to developing PMOS.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762942f46c52-6f85-4fdd-b998-555b04193108 Either way, reducing obesity and overweight may go a long way in preventing and managing PMOS, with even modest weight loss leading to symptom improvement in some research.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762926ae3fdf-a3df-4797-a161-a6e03b3e516a If you’re looking to lose weight, you can talk to your doctor for their guidance on diet , exercise, and medication.
Genetics Genetics PMOS is a highly heritable condition, which means that it runs in families. In fact, most cases are genetic.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a5a8ae6d-14bb-43f5-bc44-fff9fce0a1db So far, researchers have found 19 genes that are strongly associated with PMOS.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762966087f83-a2ad-47b5-8ea5-4c5569879f16 A genetic predisposition doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll develop the condition though. Environmental and other risk factors, such as poor diet, stress, and diabetes, may also play a role.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762916b75c99-eb1b-4029-84fc-200113f0c7fe Researchers have called for more large-scale studies to better understand how genetic and environmental factors may interact to influence the development of PMOS.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762926dc7cfd-4271-472c-9f4f-6d3236393a13
Inflammation Inflammation Some evidence suggests that chronic inflammation may play a role in PMOS.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291995137f-e46f-463f-8946-9a16f839c507 Typically, inflammation happens when your immune system responds to injury or illness. Chronic, or long-lasting, inflammation may be caused by obesity, insulin resistance, or other conditions.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f4a3fc4d-02f3-4ca7-91a1-e64eadaf9895 Some researchers also believe that increased inflammation in the body can cause insulin resistance, which in turn causes excessive levels of male hormones, contributing to PMOS symptoms.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c6133d91-db5d-4965-abc7-c958eb53cab7 Excess body fat acts like an active hormone factory, pumping out signals that increase inflammation, while cutting back on helpful, insulin-boosting hormones (like adiponectin). This blocks cells from effectively absorbing sugar and forces the body to produce even more insulin.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291705060f-87c8-4b44-b6fe-4722029208b0 Inflammation can also affect how well the ovaries function, stopping the follicles from evolving normally and leading to PMOS.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762978f4c2e4-38e2-4b39-b4a9-3aa369b497d7

Whatever your personal target, these high-protein foods can help you reach it.

1. Canned Tuna

Protein per 85-g serving: 16.2 g

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Canned tuna’s low price makes a serving of fish accessible, even on a limited budget. Kimberley Wiemann, RDN, of Westbury, New York, notes that this protein’s soft texture is easy to chew, making it a good choice for anyone with dental issues.

You may have heard the advice to “shop the perimeter” of the grocery store. But not every healthy protein comes from the butcher’s counter or cold case. You’ll find shelf-stable tuna in the canned food aisle. Tuna’s omega-3 fats have been linked to lower risk of heart disease — an important perk for older adults, who are at higher risk of this condition.

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2. Cottage Cheese

Protein per half-cup serving: 11.6 g

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Thanks to social media influencers, cottage cheese is a favorite among the younger, health-conscious crowd. But this dairy product is an all-ages, high-protein go-to, and it’s already familiar to adults who experienced its 1980s heyday.

Weiss says that cottage cheese is an excellent protein option for older folks, providing 12 to 14 g per half-cup. It’s calcium-rich, too, with 216 milligrams (mg) per serving. Weiss notes that other important nutrients in cottage cheese include vitamin D, choline, and vitamin B12, which support bone, brain, and cardiovascular health.

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Cottage cheese can be easily swapped into many recipes, even if you don’t usually like it.

3. Rotisserie Chicken

Protein per 1 breast: 33.6 g

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Nothing beats the convenience of rotisserie chicken. It’s a high-protein meal starter that needs little prep. “A precooked rotisserie chicken on hand can make it simpler for older adults to meet their recommended protein intake because the cooking and seasoning is already done,” says Wiemann. “It can be consumed on its own with veggies and starch on the side. Or, it can be shredded over salad, into soups, or sandwiches.”

If you won’t consume the entire chicken within three to four days, shred it and keep it in a sealed container in the freezer.

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There, it’ll fuel low-effort meals for even longer. When you’re ready to use it again, simply move it to the refrigerator until thawed.

4. Greek Yogurt

Protein per 7-ounce (oz) container: 19.9 g

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To smoothies, sauces, and parfaits, Greek yogurt lends a creamy texture and packs 20 g of protein per 7-oz container. “Greek yogurt is another great option that is easy to chew and swallow,” says Wiemann.

Each serving also supplies 230 mg of calcium. Because older people have a higher risk of bone fractures, shoring up bone health with this mineral is a dietary best practice. Although the daily value for the general population is 1,000 mg, it’s recommended that people age 70 and older get 1,200 mg per day.

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5. Canned Black Beans

Protein per half-cup serving: 7.98 g

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Canned beans come in many varieties — all good options — but black beans are an especially great choice for older people. Along with their 8 g of protein per half-cup serving, they’re among the highest-fiber beans around.

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Weiss says that this fiber supports gut health and digestive regularity. Gut microbiome diversity tends to decrease with age, so adding fiber is a dietary step you don’t want to miss.

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Keep a can in your pantry as a no-cook protein for salads, dips, soups, and more.

6. Salmon

Protein per 85-g serving, canned: 17.5 g

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Salmon may be on the pricier side, compared with tuna, but not every type breaks the bank. “It can work for a variety of budgets and cooking styles because fresh, frozen, and canned options can all be nutritious choices,” says Weiss. Canned is typically the least expensive option, and it’s already cooked.

This fish is a nutritional powerhouse to include in your diet as you age. “Salmon is especially valuable because it offers a combination of high-quality protein and the long-chain omega-3 fats EPA and DHA, which are associated with supporting heart, brain, and eye health,” says Weiss.

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As a snack, she suggests canned salmon salad on whole-grain crackers. At mealtimes, flake cooked salmon over mixed greens or use it as the protein base of a brown rice or quinoa bowl. When choosing between wild and farmed salmon, note that the wild variety is slightly higher in protein (but tends to be lower in omega-3 fats).

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Neither option is a bad choice for older people. Selecting one to purchase may come down to availability, budget, environmental concerns, or your nutritional goals.

7. Eggs

Protein per 1 egg: 6.24 g

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Older people may remember when nutritional advice said eggs were a no-no, but health organizations reversed that guidance after deeper research on cholesterol. Now the American Heart Association recommends one to two eggs per day as part of a heart-healthy diet.

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Eggs are an ideal staple for older people to enjoy in moderation. “Eggs are a great choice for older adults because they are simple to prepare, easy to chew, generally affordable, and a good source of protein, vitamin B12, and choline,” says Wiemann.

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“Eggs are also versatile and can provide a variety of different meals, so it does not feel repetitive.” Try them any time of day in a veggie scramble, saucy shakshuka, or fluffy frittata.

What Causes Word Retrieval Problems in MS?

While experts are still learning about the causes of word retrieval problems in MS, there doesn’t seem to be any single brain process that explains what’s happening.

“With word finding, multiple areas of the brain work together to produce the word you want to say,” says Laura Hancock, PhD, a neuropsychologist at the Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.

According to Dr. Hancock, finding a word involves cognitive processes as varied as visualizing objects or situations, retrieving stored information about words and sounds, initiating speech, and the motor (muscle movement) aspects of speech. When word finding is delayed, “It could be any one of those places where the breakdown is happening,” she says.

In a recent study, researchers looked at verbal fluency in 64 people with MS as well as 73 participants without MS. While people with MS scored the same as those without MS in many measures of verbal fluency, they demonstrated less efficiency and flexibility in their word networks — how words are connected by category and concept.

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In many people with MS, word-finding challenges are related to processing speed in the brain. “A lot of times the words are there, but the brain isn’t pulling the information as quickly as it should,” says Meghan Beier, PhD, a rehabilitation neuropsychologist who specializes in MS at the Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine in Towson, Maryland.

Often, Dr. Beier says, slowed processing speed leads to pauses in speech and the “tip of the tongue” phenomenon in which you feel close to finding a word but can’t find it.

Word finding and other cognitive challenges in MS can be worsened by certain factors, says Lyana Frantz, a speech-language pathologist at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Columbia, Maryland:

• Fatigue
• Sleep difficulties
• Medication side effects
• Depression or anxiety

Frantz says that once difficulties with word finding begin, “A lot of times, people say that they start communicating less to avoid those issues,” potentially making the problem worse by reducing the everyday practice in conversation that most people get.

In a study that looked at experiences with word retrieval among people with MS, researchers found that stressful situations, sensory overload, fatigue, emotions, and the behaviors of conversation partners all played a role in participants’ ability to find words.

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Blistering can be a sign that a sunburn is especially intense, according to Vernon Sondak, MD, the chair of the department of cutaneous oncology at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. This type of sunburn gets into deeper layers of the skin than other sunburns, causing more damage, raising the risk of infection, and increasing the odds of skin cancer, he says.

The blistering is an immune response, in which fluid builds up under damaged skin to create a protective barrier — the blister. “First, the skin gets red. Then, cells begin to die,” Dr. Sondak says. “That’s when the blistering and peeling occurs.”

While there’s no good data to support the claim that a single bad sunburn is enough to raise a person’s lifetime risk of skin cancer, it’s possible, Sondak says.

A bad sunburn is like a game of roulette, he notes. In some cases, one turn of the “wheel” could lead to cancer; in other cases, you might spin and spin without landing on a bad result.

Blistering sunburns in young people may pose special risks. One oft-cited landmark study found that young white women who’d had five or more blistering sunburns between ages 15 and 20 saw their risk of developing melanoma (the most serious type of skin cancer) increase by 80 percent.

Their risk of other types of skin cancer also went up but was not as closely associated with sun exposure in early life.

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For context, it’s useful to keep in mind that the overall risk of developing melanoma is about 3 percent for white people, 0.1 percent for Black people and 0.5 percent for Hispanic people. Any increase in risk due to blistering sunburn should be calculated against baseline risk, Tang says.

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In addition to melanoma, another form of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma, which begins in the squamous cells that make up the outer layer of skin, is associated with regular UV exposure, Sondak says.

Basal cell carcinoma, which begins in the cells that make new skin cells as old ones die, can be caused by a mixture of blistering sunburns and chronic exposure, he says.

How to Reduce Your MS Fatigue

Is there anything you can do to reduce your fatigue? Experts say yes. Here are some tips for preserving your energy so you can get the most out of each day:

1. Work Closely With Your MS Healthcare Providers

Make and keep regular appointments with your doctor to assess whether your disease is under the best control possible and you’re receiving optimal MS treatment.

“In many cases, when MS is well-controlled, it can help in terms of fatigue levels,” says Devon Conway, MD, a neurologist at Cleveland Clinic’s Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research in Ohio.

2. Get Plenty of Sleep

Practice good sleep hygiene, which includes going to bed and getting up at around the same time every day, suggests Conway. “If you sleep a lot but you still feel fatigued, you should be screened for a potential sleeping disorder,” he says.

Sleep disorders are common among people with MS but are often overlooked.

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Research has found that people with MS are at an increased risk for sleep disorders like insomnia and restless legs syndrome, which are related to daytime fatigue.

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3. Avoid Heat Exposure

Getting overheated is a surefire way to increase fatigue, so staying cool is a must. To survive summers in Texas, Wentink does plenty of advance planning.

“When it gets really hot, I know that if I’m going to do an activity, it has to be before the sun rises or after the sun sets,” he says. “If I’m going to one of my kids’ sporting events, I make sure I bring plenty of water.”

Seeking out shade and wearing an ice pack around his neck also help Wentink from getting overheated.

4. Take Good Care of Your Overall Health

Maintaining a healthy weight and optimal blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and avoiding type 2 diabetes can all help with MS fatigue, says Dr. Conway.

“A healthy diet and a regular exercise program can really help,” says Cohen. “If you are physically out of shape and overweight, everything you do requires more energy.”

5. Fuel Your Body With High-Quality Foods

There’s no specific diet for MS, but the National Multiple Sclerosis Society recommends following a healthy diet that prioritizes colorful fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats while minimizing processed foods, refined grains, and added sugars.

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“Consuming simple carbohydrates such as sugary foods and highly refined foods such as white bread, white rice, or pasta can cause blood sugar levels to spike and crash. The ‘crash’ can exacerbate preexisting fatigue in persons with MS,” explains Barbara Giesser, MD, neurologist and MS specialist at Pacific Brain Health Center in Santa Monica, California, and medical reviewer for Everyday Health.

How can you avoid this? Regularly choosing high-quality foods can help, says Dr. Giesser. Good options include:

• Protein-packed options, like beans, nuts, and lean animal proteins
• Fiber-rich foods, like oatmeal, brown rice, and high-fiber breakfast cereals
• Fresh fruit and leafy green vegetables
• Fat-free or low-fat yogurt
• Omega-3-containing foods, like salmon and walnuts

6. Practice Mindful Movement, Such as Yoga or Tai Chi

Forms of exercise that include meditation and a mind-body connection, such as tai chi and yoga, may be helpful for MS fatigue. A review of research found that mind–body exercise had the most significant effect on reducing fatigue versus other exercise in people with MS.

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“Yoga can be beneficial, as it incorporates mindfulness, stretching, and low-impact exercise,” says Conway.

7. Take Breaks and Pace Yourself

Pacing yourself and taking breaks during the day can help you stay healthy, says Wentink.

“When I’m drained and continue to push, I think I’m putting myself at risk for getting sick,” he says. “When I feel fatigued, I take it as a sign that I need to step back and take a break.”

Symptoms tend to get worse when severe fatigue sets in, says Wentink. “I try to slow down before that happens because I don’t want to bring on a relapse,” he adds.

8. Discuss Energy-Boosting Medication With Your Doctor

Modafinil (Provigil) is a wakefulness-promoting medication that works for some people with MS. The antiviral medication amantadine (Symmetrel) and dalfampridine (Ampyra), a drug approved to help with walking in people with MS, are also used to counter fatigue in people with MS. Using these medications for fatigue is an off-label use. The research on how much these drugs help with MS fatigue is conflicting, with some studies concluding that they offer therapeutic benefits while other studies suggest that they’re not more effective at reducing fatigue than a placebo and more research is needed.

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9. Get Help for Depression

Depression is treatable, so if you think you might be depressed, tell your healthcare provider right away.

10. Engage in Regular Physical Activity

“I encourage exercise for my patients,” says Conway. “In my experience, it can make fatigue worse at first, but if a person can get over the initial hump, it can actually improve fatigue,” he says.

If you’re not sure how to get started with exercise or need some help identifying exercises that will improve your fitness without wearing you out, try working with a physical therapist or a personal trainer who is knowledgeable about MS.

Consulting with a physical therapist or occupational therapist about specific energy conservation strategies may also be helpful.

11. Simplify Your Life

“I have to resist being overcommitted, especially during the holidays,” says Wentink. Even though the chaos can be “beautiful chaos” with friends and loved ones, it can still cause health issues, he says. “I’ve experienced relapses in January or February, and I believe it’s because I pushed myself too hard during the holidays,” says Wentink.

Simplifying and choosing commitments carefully helps preserve energy, he says. “I feel at peace letting some things go to improve my quality of life in the long term,” he says. “I’m hoping that my overall state of health 20 or 30 years down the road will be better because of how I’m managing my life now.”

12. Manage Your Stress

Stress can make MS symptoms feel worse, and long-term stress that goes unresolved can lead to depression, anxiety, and sleep problems.

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That makes it crucial to identify the sources of stress in your life and find ways to manage it.

What’s your best bet for stress reduction? “Some useful stress management techniques include getting enough restorative sleep, physical exercise, meditation, and yoga,” says Giesser.

Symptoms Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts Most ovarian cysts are small and don’t cause symptoms.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b8979a1b-aac9-46b7-b35c-de7fa88dfeae If you have symptoms, they may include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298e430f88-392e-454a-b9f3-ebd84ed94e4ae60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629480797ed-1da8-43d9-8026-7df71dc4dc7ae60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762994aa86af-95eb-441a-8007-c0410de05149 Pressure in your abdomen Bloating or a feeling of fullness Swelling Lower abdominal pain (sharp or dull, and it may come and go) on the side with the cyst Less common symptoms include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629561e86a4-db33-46e7-9d7b-ff8e5e3fe178e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629cf8363e0-9e27-4d5e-8f3d-e0a7c48f41bfe60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ff8243eb-8249-45a3-927c-ff7d8143691a Pelvic pain Dull ache in your lower back and thighs Pain during sex Pain during your period or irregular periods Unusual vaginal bleeding Unexplained weight gain Breast tenderness Frequent urination Problems emptying your bladder or bowel completely If the cyst has ruptured, symptoms may include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a06b4811-beaa-4668-9cca-dce5aedfa9b5e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a7b4bb73-6363-40fe-a55e-bad3eeb76c75 Sudden, severe pain Vaginal bleeding Nausea or vomiting Bloating or fullness in the abdomen Pressure or aching in the abdomen If you experience these symptoms, get medical help right away.
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs in the ovary. They are common and usually form during ovulation.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762992901b2c-ddfc-432c-9879-30bb79ab63f3 Cysts on the ovaries can occur at any age but mostly happen during the reproductive years.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762941e50a83-a405-47ad-85e4-291ea35462a3 Many cysts are small, asymptomatic, and benign, and they resolve without treatment.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c0123454-0bdd-4d5b-8cbc-cd2a9f3b70f9 In some instances, though, a cyst can cause symptoms, especially if it ruptures or grows larger. These cysts require medical intervention, including surgical removal of the cyst or even the ovary.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b5a107dc-b368-40f8-9fca-702f39432bcbe60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298e181d88-66a5-4965-8fb8-205740cc86c9
Prevention Prevention of Ovarian Cysts If you are ovulating, you cannot prevent functional ovarian cysts. But if you regularly develop cysts, your doctor may prescribe hormonal birth control to prevent ovulation, which may lower your chances of developing new cysts.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762990484f8d-779a-475a-9770-f2006cc52a99 Regular pelvic exams can help detect changes in your ovaries (though for many people, an ultrasound is necessary to identify a cyst).e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297b9added-8d65-47d6-872a-ef11703c1759
Complications Complications of Ovarian Cysts Although infrequent, some complications associated with ovarian cysts include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762945af0484-3aa5-4a46-8761-ed6534e1805b Ovarian Torsion A painful twisting of an ovary, ovarian torsion can occur when enlarged cysts cause the ovary to twist around itself. Symptoms can include an abrupt onset of severe pelvic pain, nausea, and vomiting. Ovarian torsion is a medical emergency requiring surgery to untwist or remove the ovary.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e1e5e18d-af6b-4466-a310-a7d05f00f265 Rupture The larger the cyst is, the more likely it is to rupture. Some ruptures cause only mild symptoms that can be managed with pain medication, but in other cases, a ruptured cyst can cause severe pain in the abdomen and bleeding; these symptoms require immediate medical attention.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762944a8214b-1524-40d4-ac24-cd83cd8a6978 Vigorous activity that affects the pelvis, such as vaginal intercourse, increases your risk for rupture.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a1860a25-0dcd-431a-b4a5-5a077f600be7
Diagnosis How Are Ovarian Cysts Diagnosed? A cyst on your ovary can be found during a routine pelvic exam.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297ee73453-ea03-47f7-b88a-2d623431f1c2 Your doctor may recommend any of the following tests to determine the type of cyst you have and the best course of treatment:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296f14e5d6-1185-4f38-8018-c5fd3bb12e8be60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762967ba7a13-719f-464e-90c8-7c167dd845b2 Pregnancy Test If positive, it may suggest that you have a corpus luteum cyst, which is typical during pregnancy. If negative, your doctor will recommend other types of tests. CA 125 Blood Test If the cyst is partially solid and you’re at a high risk of ovarian cancer , your doctor may order this test. Blood levels of a protein called cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) are often elevated in women with ovarian cancer. Noncancerous conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and pelvic inflammatory disease can also cause elevated CA 125 levels. Pelvic Ultrasound Your doctor may use a wand called a transducer to perform a transvaginal ultrasound . This will create images that can confirm the presence of a cyst, help determine its location, and detect whether it’s solid, filled with fluid, or mixed. Laparoscopy With the use of a laparoscope (a long, thin tube with a high-resolution camera attached to the end) inserted through a small incision in your abdomen, your doctor can see your ovaries and sometimes remove the cyst.
Causes Causes and Risk Factors of Ovarian Cysts Your risk of developing an ovarian cyst is increased by:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629afa23665-aec1-42e3-9c4a-0b36ef4a0935e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d02de296-b9a6-4b1d-98ff-7be00a9e53ef Drugs that stimulate ovulation, including the fertility drug clomiphene (Clomid) Pregnancy Underlying conditions such as hormone disorders, endometriosis , and polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) , formerly known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) A severe pelvic infection A previous ovarian cyst Editor’s Note: Following a May 2026 global consensus, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is now officially called polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), highlighting the metabolic roots of the condition.
Treatment Treatment and Medication Options for Ovarian Cysts Treatment varies depending on your age, the type and size of the cyst, and your symptoms.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299fbeff7b-782f-40bf-9c3c-eab355dcc7f2 Your doctor may want to wait and see if the cyst goes away within a few months. This is typically the go-to option when you have no symptoms and a small, fluid-filled cyst, regardless of your age. Your doctor may also recommend follow-up pelvic ultrasounds at intervals to see if the cyst changes in size.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762959dd2662-1f8c-456a-b12f-6518daf5ea81 Other options include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e4280ce6-aa10-4bc4-91e6-48d15faa0782 Hormonal Contraceptives Birth control pills can keep cysts from recurring, but they won’t shrink an existing cyst. Surgery If the cyst is large, doesn’t look like a functional cyst, is growing, continues through two or three menstrual cycles, or causes pain, your doctor may suggest having it surgically removed. Some cysts can be removed without removing the ovary (ovarian cystectomy), but in other cases, your doctor may suggest that you remove the affected ovary (oophorectomy).
Types Types of Ovarian Cysts Most ovarian cysts develop as a result of your menstrual cycle. These are called functional cysts, and there are two types:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629237d39ca-d671-4fff-b748-31e03d94bdcae60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629eeb1165c-d6f8-4fe6-92fe-3654f5d1c447 Follicular Cyst A structure in the ovaries called a follicle typically releases an egg each month. A follicular cyst develops when the follicle doesn’t rupture and release its egg but instead continues to grow and fills with fluid. Corpus Luteum Cyst After releasing its egg, a follicle typically shrinks and begins producing estrogen and progesterone . It is then called the corpus luteum. But if the opening where the egg came from is blocked, the corpus luteum can fill with fluid. Other nonmenstruation-related cysts include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629659e70c8-f174-4422-8277-5f66d5269a6de60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299b5a055c-4b3c-4c21-8126-564cdbb7ddb2 Dermoid Cysts Also known as teratomas, these cysts form from embryonic cells. So they may contain the same types of tissue that make up hair, skin, and teeth. Cystadenomas These cysts develop on the surface of the ovary and contain a watery or mucouslike fluid. Endometriomas These develop as a result of endometriosis, a condition in which uterine cells grow outside the uterus. This tissue can attach to an ovary to form a cyst. Ovarian Cancer Cysts These are solid masses of cancer cells. Ovarian cancer cysts are most common after menopause.
Prognosis How Long Do Ovarian Cysts Last? Functional ovarian cysts often go away on their own within 8 to 12 weeks. Cysts are more likely to go away in women who are still having periods, and a simple ovarian cyst (fluid-filled) is most likely benign.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e21b6b93-38db-437f-b132-0b53e293f057 Some ovarian cysts may be cancerous. This risk increases with age.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762904228b65-89c8-44b1-85aa-f856b8665d27 Cancerous cysts will likely need to be surgically removed.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762904ba6e8b-c09f-43aa-8abe-a09322b7936b
Resources We Trust Mayo Clinic: Ovarian Cysts and Infertility: A Connection? Cleveland Clinic: Ovarian Cysts Johns Hopkins Medicine: Benign Ovarian Cysts University of Utah Health: Ovarian Cysts: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Office on Women’s Health: Ovarian Cysts

Beta-blockers may not be as effective when taken alongside other medications. When you’re talking to a healthcare provider about beta-blockers, be open about any current medications or over-the-counter supplements you take. This can help you reduce the risk of issues.

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Let your doctor know about all other medical conditions you have before you start on a beta-blocker. Also, tell your doctor about all medicines you’re taking, especially the following:

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Never stop taking a beta-blocker abruptly without speaking to your healthcare provider.

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Beta-Blockers, Alcohol, and Caffeine

Avoid eating or drinking products that contain alcohol, which can reduce the effects of beta-blockers. It’s also best to limit or avoid caffeine. This can also affect how beta-blockers work in your body.

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Beta-Blockers and Pregnancy

Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or might become pregnant while taking a beta-blocker.

Some beta-blockers may be safe to take during pregnancy, while others may be harmful.

In one study of pregnant women with structural heart disease, those taking beta-blockers had more infants who were small for gestational age (SGA) and a higher rate of congenital heart disease. But the researchers noted these women may also have been sicker, which can affect those outcomes on its own. Among the drugs, labetalol carried the lowest SGA risk and atenolol had the highest.

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Discuss the risks and benefits of taking these drugs with your doctor. Also, talk to your healthcare provider before taking a beta-blocker if you’re breastfeeding.

Beta-Blockers and Certain Populations

If you have asthma, talk to your doctor before taking a beta-blocker. Some types of beta-blockers may trigger a severe asthma attack. Recommendations generally allow cardioselective beta-blockers in people with asthma, but not nonselective ones.

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Consult with your doctor if you have a slow heart rate (bradycardia), low blood pressure (hypotension), or Raynaud’s syndrome. Beta-blockers may not be recommended as first-line treatment when these conditions are present.

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In ATTR-CM, transthyretin proteins become unstable and fold the wrong way.

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 You can picture TTR protein folding like making a paper airplane. If you fold one wing in the opposite direction, your airplane won’t fly.When TTR proteins don’t fold right, they can’t move like they should. Then, they build up in your organs, including your heart, says Tadeo Diaz Balderrama, MD, a cardiologist for SSM Health in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

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This can lead to symptoms of heart failure, like shortness of breath and swelling in your legs.

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Vitamin A fits into this equation when you treat ATTR-CM with medications that decrease the amount of the TTR proteins that transport it.

“Vitamin A (retinol) does not circulate freely in the blood,” says Julia Zumpano, RD, who specializes in metabolic nutrition and clinical nutrition at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. “Instead, retinol binds to a carrier protein called retinol-binding protein (RBP).”

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 Then, this combination connects to TTR, which helps your body use vitamin A, says Zumpano.

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ATTR-CM treatments work in two ways: