Multiple myeloma is a form of blood cancer that occurs in the Plasma cells, a type of white blood cells. Plasma cells are the soft tissues found in the bone marrow. Plasma cells are important because they maintain the immune system and fight infections in the body. When plasma cells detect an infection in the body they make antibodies and start attacking germs.
The multiple myeloma is a condition where there is an abnormal production of antibodies called M proteins in the bone marrow. When the amount of M protein becomes crowded it hampers the normal function of immunoglobulin resulting in complications like liver damage and kidney diseases.
Signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma
The symptoms of multiple myeloma differ from patient to patient. Not every patient with this type of blood cancer has all the symptoms. The symptoms of Myeloma depend on the other conditions prevailing in the body. The symptoms become severe as the other conditions get complicated. The symptoms can be managed with the advanced treatment options available.
Some of the common symptoms of multiple myeloma include:
- Bone fractures or pain especially in the chest or spine
- Vulnerability to infections
- Nausea and fatigue
- Constipation
- Decreased urination
- Excessive thirst
- Confusion
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Kidney problems
- Weakness in legs
Hypercalcemia :
This is a condition when the patient goes through a series of symptoms like confusion, restlessness, excessive thirst, loss of appetite, and nausea. These conditions result in increased levels of calcium in the blood.
Bone lesions :
In this condition, the patient suffers from pain or fractures in the bones. The fractures are tiny caused by the plasma cells accumulation. When plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow it weakens the structure of the bone.
Low blood count :
When the multiple myeloma sets in, the count of red blood cells falls down. When the red blood cells count falls to a low level, it causes anemia and leads to fatigue, shortness of breath and weakness. This condition also leads to a reduction in the count of white blood cells. When the count of white blood cells is low, the immune system becomes weak. Hence, the body becomes prone to various infections. Myeloma patients are seen to get pneumonia most commonly which can get pretty serious as they respond very slowly to the treatment. This blood cancer also causes a fall in the blood platelet count. When the blood platelet is low, even a small cut, scrape or a bruise can lead to serious bleeding.
Failure of kidney function :
When the kidney function gets impaired, it leads to many other health complications. The kidneys overwork because of the increased levels of calcium and protein in the blood. Problems in the function of the kidney can be detected both in the urine and the blood tests.
Nerve damage :
When the levels of protein become too high in the blood, it can cause severe damage to the nerves. Nerve damage leads to numbness and weakness mostly in the legs.
Hyperviscosity:
This is a condition where the blood starts to thicken because of the high level of M protein present in the blood. This condition leads to dizziness, confusion, slurred speech, and weakness on one side of the body.
If any of the signs and symptoms are persistent, then you need to see a doctor and determine if you have multiple myeloma. Your doctor will run certain urine and blood tests to find out your condition. Remember, early detection can help in quick recovery.
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