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Multiple Myeloma Treatment Side Effects

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer. This cancer begins in certain white blood cells called plasma cells. These cells are responsible for creating antibodies, which help the immune system protect the body from a variety of harmful substances and germs. Multiple myeloma causes new plasma cells to form when the body doesn't need them, and they eventually grow into a tumor. Multiple myeloma affects several bones.

  1. Symptoms

    • The symptoms of multiple myeloma vary from patient to patient in intensity and frequency. The symptoms of multiple myeloma include urinating frequently, pain in the bones (the bones in the back are most often affected), constipation, nausea, broken bones (spinal bones are most often affected), weight loss, weakness and fatigue, frequent fevers and infections, and excessive thirst.

    Diagnosis

    • Multiple myeloma is sometimes diagnosed by accident when a routine blood test is performed or if evidence is present when a broken bone is X-rayed. When multiple myeloma is suspected, blood and urine tests will be performed with a complete physical exam. The urine tests are performed to search for the Bence Jones protein. The blood tests are performed to check for high levels of calcium and plasma cells, as well as anemia and certain proteins such as beta-2-microglobulin, M protein and others. X-rays may be performed to check for thinning or broken bones. A biopsy of the bone marrow or any tumors may also be performed. A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed for further analysis.

    Treatment

    • Chemotherapy is often the first treatment method. These drugs are administered into the bloodstream through the veins or the mouth, and are capable of destroying cancer cells. Radiation is often used in combination with chemotherapy to help destroy cancer cells and to help alleviate pain. Radiation uses high-energy rays and can be administered locally or to the entire body.

    Chemotherapy Side Effects

    • Chemotherapy can produce more than 100 side effects. The type of chemotherapy that is used will determine most of the side effects, but some side effects can occur with all types of chemotherapy. These side effects include injection site reactions, loss of appetite, blood clots, bruising easily, chills, metallic taste in mouth, muscle aches, cold symptoms, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, dehydration, dry mouth, dizziness, fever, fatigue, facial flushing, hair loss, heartburn, trouble sleeping, weight loss and weakness.

    Radiation Side Effects

    • Radiation often does not produce many side effects. When side effects do occur, they are often mild to moderate for many patients. Side effects of radiation include nausea, low blood count, fatigue and hair loss. The body's organs may also experience certain side effects if they are within close proximity to the radiation site. The side effects on organs vary greatly depending on the organ, but can be severe.

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