What are the signs and symptoms of Multiple Myeloma?
Signs and symptoms can help describe a medical issue. A sign is usually something that can be identified and measured, such as a fever or pulse. A symptom is something that only you can identify and describe, such as pain or fatigue.
Multiple myeloma can be difficult to find early since some patients may not have any signs or symptoms, and their cancer may be found through a routine blood or urine test. Talk to your healthcare team, if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms. It helps to track how long/often you're experiencing these symptoms.
Fatigue is usually caused by anemia or other
factors associated with multiple myeloma
Bone Pain (most often in the back, hips or skull), bone weakness and or fractures
Low Blood Count: A low blood count (red
blood cells, white blood cells or blood
platelets) is common in multiple myeloma and can be confirmed through a blood test. A few
symptoms associated with these issues can be found below:
- Anemia: A low level of red blood cells can cause weakness, shortness of
breath and/or dizziness.
- Leukopenia: A low white blood cell count can reduce resistance to
infections (e.g. pneumonia).
- Thrombocytopenia: A low blood platelet count may lead to serious
bleeding (even with a minor scrape or bruise).
Hypercalcemia: A high level of calcium in your
blood
due to bone breakdown which can cause drowsiness, constipation, extreme thirst, frequent urination,
abdominal pain and/or kidney damage
Nervous System Symptoms: If multiple myeloma
weakens the bones in your spine it can lead to spinal cord compression where the bones collapse and
press on the spinal nerves. This can lead to sudden/severe back pain, numbness or muscle weakness
(usually in legs).
Nerve Damage: A “pins and needles” sensation
called peripheral neuropathy is caused by the abnormal proteins produced by myeloma cells
Hyperviscosity is thickening of the blood that
can lead to nosebleeds, bleeding gums, bruising, blood clots and/or cloudy vision.
Kidney Issues: Myeloma protein can damage your
kidneys. As kidneys start to fail, they lose the ability to get rid of excess salt and fluid in your
body, which can lead to
symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps, nausea, shortness of breath, itching and/or
leg swelling.
Infections: (especially of the upper
respiratory tract and lungs) due to lower immunity
