Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that often develops silently. Because early symptoms can be vague or mimic more common conditions, many people don't recognize the warning signs until the disease has progressed. Knowing what to watch for — especially in the early stages — can make a huge difference in getting timely treatment and improving outcomes.
What Is Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma affects plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. These cells normally help your body fight infections. But in multiple myeloma, abnormal plasma cells multiply and crowd out healthy cells, leading to a range of serious health problems, including weakened bones, kidney issues, and a compromised immune system.
First Signs of Multiple Myeloma to Look Out For
Early symptoms can be easy to dismiss, but they often include:
Persistent bone pain, especially in the back or ribs
Extreme fatigue or feeling weak without explanation
Frequent infections or illnesses
Unexplained weight loss
Numbness or weakness in the legs
Increased thirst and frequent urination, signs of kidney strain
If any of these symptoms linger or worsen, it’s important to get them evaluated promptly.
Red Flag Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
As the disease progresses, additional warning signs may appear:
Fractures from minor injuries
Severe anemia causing shortness of breath and dizziness
High calcium levels leading to confusion or constipation
Chronic kidney problems
Multiple myeloma symptoms can vary widely from person to person, which is why paying attention to even small changes in your health matters.
How Is Multiple Myeloma Treated?
The good news is that treatments for multiple myeloma have advanced significantly. Common options include:
Chemotherapy: To destroy abnormal plasma cells.
Targeted therapy: Drugs that specifically attack cancer cells without harming normal ones.
Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s natural defenses to fight cancer.
Stem cell transplant: Replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy cells.
Radiation therapy: Used to relieve bone pain or control localized disease.
For older adults, especially those over 65, treatments may be adjusted to balance effectiveness with quality of life. Many elderly patients respond well to milder chemotherapy combined with newer targeted therapies.
Staying Ahead of the Disease
Early detection is critical. Routine blood tests can sometimes pick up clues like abnormal protein levels long before symptoms appear. If you are experiencing ongoing, unexplained health changes — especially bone pain and fatigue — asking your doctor for further evaluation can make all the difference.