Multiple Myeloma: These Warning Signs Shouldn't Be Ignored

What Is Multiple Myeloma?

While its name might not be familiar to many, the signs can be surprisingly subtle at first. Recognizing these early symptoms may help patients seek timely treatment and improve outcomes.

What Is Multiple Myeloma?

Plasma cells play a critical role in your immune system by producing antibodies to help fight infections. In multiple myeloma, abnormal plasma cells grow uncontrollably, crowding out healthy cells and affecting bone structure, kidney function, and immune response.

This condition mostly affects adults over 60, though it can appear earlier. It's slightly more common in men and African American populations. While the exact cause remains unclear, risk factors include a family history of the disease and exposure to certain chemicals.

Early Symptoms Often Overlooked

Many early signs of multiple myeloma can be mistaken for less serious issues. Here are symptoms to watch:

Bone pain, particularly in the back or ribs

Fatigue or feeling unusually weak

Frequent infections, due to impaired immune response

Unexplained weight loss

Excessive thirst or urination (can signal kidney issues)

Numbness or tingling, especially in the legs

If you’ve experienced any of these for an extended period, it’s worth discussing with a healthcare provider. They may order blood tests, imaging, or a bone marrow biopsy to investigate further.

How It’s Diagnosed and Treated

Diagnosis typically involves:

Blood and urine tests to detect abnormal proteins

Bone marrow biopsy to check for cancerous plasma cells

Imaging like MRIs or CT scans to detect bone damage

Treatment depends on the stage and severity. Common strategies include:

Targeted therapies that attack specific cancer cells

Chemotherapy

Stem cell transplants

Supportive treatments to protect bones and kidneys

While multiple myeloma is generally not considered curable, it is often manageable with modern treatment. Many patients live meaningful lives with ongoing care.

The Power of Early Detection

Like many cancers, the earlier multiple myeloma is identified, the better the treatment outcomes. But because its symptoms mimic other common issues, it’s often diagnosed late. Staying informed and acting on persistent health changes can make all the difference.