Bone Pain and Fragility

The most common early sign of myeloma is persistent bone pain, typically affecting the back, ribs, or hips. This pain occurs because myeloma cells release substances that dissolve bone tissue, creating weak spots or even fractures.

Unlike typical muscle pain, myeloma-related bone pain often worsens with movement and may be particularly noticeable at night. Some patients report experiencing fractures from minimal trauma or everyday activities that wouldn't normally cause injury. This increased bone fragility happens because the cancer weakens the bone structure from within, making it more susceptible to breaks even under normal stress.

Unexplained Fatigue and Weakness

Persistent fatigue that doesn't improve with rest can be an early indicator of myeloma. This exhaustion stems from anemia (low red blood cell count), which commonly develops as myeloma cells crowd out healthy blood-producing cells in the bone marrow.

Many patients describe this fatigue as overwhelming and different from normal tiredness. It may be accompanied by unusual muscle weakness, shortness of breath during routine activities, or feeling dizzy when standing up. These symptoms occur because your body isn't getting enough oxygen due to decreased red blood cell production. If you're experiencing fatigue that significantly impacts your daily life without an obvious cause, it warrants a conversation with your healthcare provider.

Frequent Infections

An increased susceptibility to infections can signal the presence of myeloma. This happens because the cancer affects the immune system by reducing the production of normal antibodies that fight infection.

Patients might notice they're catching colds more frequently, taking longer to recover from minor illnesses, or developing infections that require antibiotics to resolve. Common infections include respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia. The American Cancer Society notes that recurring infections, especially within a short timeframe, should prompt a medical evaluation, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms on this list.

Kidney Problems

Myeloma can cause kidney damage through several mechanisms. The abnormal proteins produced by myeloma cells can harm kidney tissue, while elevated calcium levels from bone breakdown can also impair kidney function.

Early signs of kidney problems may include increased thirst, changes in urination patterns, or swelling in the legs and ankles. According to the International Myeloma Foundation, approximately 20-30% of myeloma patients have some degree of kidney impairment at diagnosis. Regular blood tests can detect kidney issues before symptoms become apparent, which is why routine medical check-ups are important, especially for those over 60 or with risk factors for myeloma.

Blood Test Abnormalities and Screening Options

Routine blood work often reveals the first clues of myeloma, sometimes before physical symptoms develop. Common abnormalities include anemia, elevated protein levels, high calcium levels, or changes in kidney function indicators.

If you're experiencing any concerning symptoms, your doctor may recommend specific blood tests to check for these abnormalities. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society recommends that people with persistent unexplained symptoms request a complete blood count, comprehensive metabolic panel, and possibly a serum protein electrophoresis test, which can detect the abnormal proteins produced by myeloma cells. Early detection through these screening methods can lead to better treatment outcomes and quality of life for those diagnosed with myeloma.

Conclusion

Being aware of the early signs of myeloma can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes. While symptoms like bone pain, fatigue, frequent infections, and kidney problems can have many causes, their persistence or combination warrants medical attention. Remember that myeloma is often treatable, especially when caught early. The Cancer.Net resource emphasizes that today's treatments are more effective than ever, with many patients living longer, higher-quality lives after diagnosis. If you're experiencing concerning symptoms, particularly if you're over 60 or have a family history of blood disorders, consult with your healthcare provider about appropriate screening options.

Citations

This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.