health Post

Early Warning Signs of Multiple Myeloma

Myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the plasma cells, or white blood cells, that protect our bodies from infection by producing antibodies. There are 3 types of myeloma, including multiple myeloma, solitary plasmacytoma, and extramedullary plasmacytoma. This cancer sets itself apart from other types as it’s relapsing remitting, commonly with multiple myeloma. This means that there are times when this cancer is active and requires treatments, and times when it is steady and under control. Myeloma treatments include targeted therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, corticosteroids, bone marrow transplant, radiation therapy, and more. Like other cancers, when caught early on, myeloma treatments are more successful—here are some early warning signs to look out for: 1. Bone problems Bone problems are an early warning sign of myeloma. This occurs due to myeloma cells growing in the bone marrow and bone. Issues with bones typically include bone pain, bone weakness, or broken bones. With bone pain, one may experience uncomfortable feelings in any bone—most commonly this affects the back, hips, and skull. Bone weakness occurs as a result of an onset of osteoporosis which thins the bone. Lastly, broken bones can happen more easily, even from minor stress or injuries. 2. Chronic infections Since white blood cells protect our bodies from infection by producing antibodies, myeloma, which inhibits their functionality, can result in more chronic infections.