Managing
Side Effects

Ask about the potential short-term (during treatment) and long-term (linger after active treatment) side effects of each treatment option so that you can select the best option for you in partnership with your healthcare team.

Know what to expect. Be proactive and learn what you should do if you experience any side effects. Discuss a plan with your healthcare team since there are many options to help prevent and manage side effects.

Side effects include the emotions you may experience after a cancer diagnosis, as well. You may feel sad, anxious, uncertain and/or angry. Talking to a therapist, counselor, social worker and/or other people with myeloma can help you cope.

Ask your doctor about palliative care, which focuses on improving how you feel during treatment by managing symptoms and providing support around non-medical needs, as well. Palliative treatments may include medication, nutrition support, relaxation techniques, emotional support, etc.

Track your side effects, which includes both new ones and/or changes to current side effects. Talk to your healthcare team regularly about how you're feeling so that they can help you address these issues early on.