Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. The symptoms can vary widely depending on the individual and the stage of the disease, but common signs and symptoms include:
- Bone Pain: Pain in the bones, especially in the back, hips, and skull, is a common symptom of multiple myeloma. This occurs because the cancerous plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow, leading to weakening of the bones and causing pain.
- Bone Fractures: Due to the weakening of bones, patients with multiple myeloma are more prone to fractures, even with minor trauma. This occurs because the cancerous cells disrupt the normal process of bone remodeling, leading to bone weakness.
- Fatigue: Many patients with multiple myeloma experience fatigue, which can be severe and debilitating. This can occur due to anemia (low red blood cell count), which is common in multiple myeloma, or due to the cancer affecting other organs and causing overall weakness.
- Weakness: Weakness in the muscles can occur, partly due to anemia and partly due to the effects of the cancer on muscle function.
- Recurrent Infections: Plasma cells play a crucial role in the immune system by producing antibodies. In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells crowd out normal ones, leading to a weakened immune response and an increased risk of infections.
- Kidney Problems: Multiple myeloma can affect the kidneys in several ways, including the production of abnormal proteins that can damage the kidneys, or due to the accumulation of calcium and other substances in the blood, leading to kidney stones or kidney damage.
- Hypercalcemia: High levels of calcium in the blood can occur in multiple myeloma due to the breakdown of bone tissue by cancer cells. This can lead to symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and confusion.
- Neurological Symptoms: In some cases, multiple myeloma can cause neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or tingling in the extremities. This can occur due to compression of nerves by tumors or due to the effects of abnormal proteins produced by the cancer.
- Anemia: Multiple myeloma can lead to a decrease in red blood cells, causing anemia. Anemia can result in symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Some patients with multiple myeloma may experience unexplained weight loss due to a combination of factors, including loss of appetite, metabolic changes, and the body's response to the cancer.
These symptoms are not exclusive to multiple myeloma and can be associated with other less serious conditions. However, if you persistently experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see your healthcare provider promptly to determine the cause. At GW Cancer Center, you’ll be seen by providers who rank among the top experts in the Washington, DC region.