Five people in my family have been diagnosed with something called Fabry Disease. It is a rare genetic disease that is passed down through the X chromesome. Not sure if it came from my moms, father's side (McKaigs) or her mothers side of the family. Genetic counselors advise us to try and find family members that may have this. We are most interested in helping others in our family that may have the disease. Many search for years to get a diagnosis and others are misdiagnosed because it is rare and most doctors have not heard of it.
The short version is people with this disease are lacking an enzyme that breaks down certain lipids and wastes from the blood cells. Because we can not get rid of this stuff it builds up in the body. Many that have it end up with kidney and heart problems that can lead to kidney transplants and heart attacks.
The symptoms are kind of strange but include severe pain in the hands and feet which worsen when running a fever or when becoming active. Hot or cold weather can also cause pain flair-ups. Most that have it do not sweat which can lead to heat stroke. Some have an intolerance of hot or cold weather. Many have a red type rash around their abdominal area. Gastro problems are common as well. If any of this sounds familar to anyone please write to me at Kampertwo@yahoo.com.
All the best to all of you.
Kathie