A multiple myeloma is a rare form of blood cancer that affects the plasma cells in the immune system and may eventually cause life-threatening complications if left untreated. Most people affected by the condition may experience fatigue, unexplained weight loss, muscle aches or weakness, and recurrent infections. Knowing the symptoms helps you identify them, consult a healthcare professional, and treat them early. This blog will discuss seven key signs of multiple myeloma.

What is multiple myeloma?
This type of blood cancer affects plasma cells, white blood cells that produce antibodies (proteins that help the body fight infections.) In multiple myeloma, the plasma cells become cancerous and multiply uncontrollably, crowding out normal blood cells and forming tumors in bones and other tissues.
The abnormal plasma cells in multiple myeloma produce a type of antibody called a monoclonal protein or M protein, which can cause damage to various organs and tissues in the body. The M protein can accumulate in the blood, urine, and other tissues, leading to symptoms such as bone pain, anemia, fatigue, frequent infections, kidney damage, and nerve damage.

Seven symptoms of multiple myeloma

Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom of multiple myeloma, which can often be overwhelming. People without myeloma may also sometimes experience fatigue due to stress or illness. However, the fatigue associated with myeloma results from anemia caused by low blood protein levels. Anemia makes it difficult for the blood to take enough oxygen to the muscles and tissues, leading to decreased energy and lethargy.
In addition, supporting organs such as kidneys and liver can become overburdened with toxins and proteins secreted by cancer cells, resulting in more physical exhaustion.
To help fight fatigue and multiple myeloma, you should incorporate relaxing activities into your lifestyle, including yoga and relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and guided imagery. Moreover, eating a balanced meal rich in lean proteins will supply essential nutrients for higher energy levels. Additionally, drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day helps replace lost electrolytes from dehydration, contributing to fatigue.

Anemia
Anemia is a common symptom of myeloma. Since the cancerous cells in multiple myeloma attack healthy cells, they can reduce the production of crucial red blood cells, often resulting in anemia. Further, patients with multiple myeloma may be unable to make enough EPO or erythropoietin (the hormone essential for red blood cell production), making anemia more severe. Anemias associated with this type of cancer usually requires regular monitoring of red blood cells and hemoglobin levels.

Increased susceptibility to infections
In multiple myeloma, also known as plasma cell myeloma, malignant plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow, causing lesions (abnormal growth in the bone) and damaging the bones. One of its most common symptoms is frequent infections due to a weakened immune system.
The body’s supply of healthy white blood cells is affected by multiple myeloma, leaving you more susceptible to contracting illnesses—colds, flu viruses, and systemic infections such as pneumonia or sepsis. If you’ve been experiencing frequent illnesses or infections recently, it may be a sign of multiple myeloma, and you should talk to your healthcare professional immediately.

Bone pain
Bone pain is caused by the cancer cells destroying the bone and can range from mild to severe. It often manifests as general discomfort in bones but can also present as sharp stabbing or shooting pains that may be restricted to specific body areas. The pain is usually worse at night and can interfere with a patient’s ability to sleep peacefully.
The best way to identify whether you’re experiencing bone pain related to multiple myeloma is to get tested as soon as possible to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment quickly.

Losing weight
Shedding a few kilos unexpectedly may be alarming when you are skeptical about multiple myeloma. People may notice they have dramatically lost weight without changing their meal plans or exercise habits. A lack of appetite can cause weight loss due to the myeloma interfering with signals to the brain that indicate hunger. Cancer cells also use much body energy and nutrients, leaving less energy for the body’s normal functions. This combination of factors in individuals with multiple myeloma may lead to significant weight loss over time.

Swelling
Swelling is a common symptom of multiple myeloma, and it usually occurs due to the accumulation of proteins or fluids in the body’s tissues. Additionally, swelling can result from anemia or lesions that affect areas around the kidneys.
Anemia occurs when the production of red blood cells is impaired by the cancerous plasma cells and leads to low oxygen levels in the organs, resulting in swelling. In contrast, lesions can disrupt the kidneys’ normal functioning, which increases obstruction in the urine flow and leads to fluid retention, resulting in swelling.

Nausea
Nausea is common and often overlooked symptom of multiple myeloma. The lymph nodes, bones, spleen, and other organs may be affected when cells divide out of control and form tumors. Many people find nausea associated with multiple myeloma often comes up suddenly and without warning, making it difficult to manage.
However, you can control or prevent nausea through dietary changes, regular rest, and relaxation techniques. You may also take prescriptions such as antiemetics which help reduce the symptoms.

Conclusion
It is essential to know the multiple myeloma signs and symptoms and note any abnormalities or changes in your body. You must speak with your healthcare provider if you have multiple myeloma or experience symptoms. Additionally, remember to stay on top of your yearly check-ups to monitor your health and catch any potential issues early on. Multiple myeloma is a severe blood cancer. However, proper maintenance and monitoring can help keep you healthy. If you ever have questions concerning signs or symptoms of multiple myeloma, contact your physician for answers and advice on how to proceed. Remember that it’s always better to be safe than sorry regarding health.