7 Early Warning Signs of Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma is a cancer that forms in plasma cells—a type of white blood cell—within bone marrow. There are many available treatment options for relapsed multiple myeloma: one of these is the Kyprolis multiple myeloma treatment with the Carfilzomib Kyprolis prescription medication. Additionally, other treatment options such as Venetoclax amp up for Aml and T cell therapy for multiple myeloma are also available. Before any of these treatments can be administered, however, it’s important to know about some of the early warning signs of multiple myeloma. Keep reading to learn more:
1. Excessive thirst and urination
While excessive thirst and urination can be a symptom of various conditions—diabetes, for instance—this can also be an early warning sign of multiple myeloma. Due to high levels of calcium present in the blood, individuals with this disease might find themselves craving water and using the bathroom far more than before.
2. Bone pain
Since multiple myeloma takes place in the bone marrow, bone pain is a telltale warning sign.
This pain usually occurs in the hips, ribs, or back, and can be very severe. Unfortunately, the bone pain resulting from multiple myeloma is typically constant. Therefore, if you or your loved one is experiencing this type of pain, it’s crucial to seek the advice of a medical professional.
3. Bone fractures
In the same vein as bone pain, those with multiple myeloma might be more likely to get bone fractures in the early stages of the disease. For those with weakened bones due to multiple myeloma, any stress on the bones or even minor injuries can be enough to cause a fracture.
4. Recurring infections
If you or your loved one is experiencing frequent infections—such as urinary tract infections or pneumonia—this could be an early warning sign of multiple myeloma. While infections can result from many different conditions and illnesses, multiple myeloma can weaken the body’s immune system and cause infections to occur frequently.
5. Hypercalcemia
Hypercalcemia—also known as high levels of calcium being present in the blood—can cause nausea and vomiting. Aside from this, hypercalcemia can also result in dehydration and constipation. While all of these symptoms can be associated with many conditions, illnesses, and life changes outside of hypercalcemia, it’s important to consult with a medical professional if you feel that you or your loved one might be suffering from multiple myeloma.
6. Weight loss
Those with multiple myeloma may find that they’re losing weight rapidly. However, this weight loss is typically unexplained, not caused by a diet or any other knowable factors. It’s important to reach out to a doctor if you or your loved one is noticeably losing weight without any explanation as to why.
7. Elevated blood protein levels
Having an elevated level of protein in the blood isn’t usually a symptom that somebody can spot on their own, therefore this early warning sign of multiple myeloma is typically spotted during routine blood tests. Certain proteins—beta-2 microglobulin and M protein (monoclonal protein)—might be elevated. If this is the case, we advise consulting with a medical professional about the next steps.