Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells. These cells circulate in the blood, originating in the bone marrow. Abnormal plasma cells are found in the blood and these cells cause problems throughout the body. The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation reports that over 56,000 Americans have this cancer. Several treatments are available for multiple myeloma. Some patients experience one or more of these five early warning signs. Other patients learn of the disease through a routine blood test or remain undiagnosed until the cancer is at an advanced stage.
Bone Pain
Bone pain is often the first sign of multiple myeloma. This is because myeloma cells tell one type of bone cell to break down existing bone but do not tell the corresponding type of bone cell to make new bone. The abnormal plasma (myeloma) cells also accumulate in the bones. The U.S. National Library of Medicine indicates that bone pain is often noted first in the ribs or back area.
Multiple Infections
People with undiagnosed multiple myeloma often experience multiple infections. This occurs when the bone marrow makes large amounts of the abnormal plasma cells and lowers production of healthy white blood cells that can fight infection. Common infections such as bladder or sinus infections become harder to resolve, and dangerous infections such as pneumonia may develop.
Weakness
The patient with early multiple myeloma may feel weak or fatigue more easily than usual. This is often due to the bone marrow producing fewer red blood cells, instead making more abnormal plasma cells. This deficiency of red blood cells causes the tissues of the body to not get enough oxygen and nutrition to function at full capacity.
Broken Bones
Often, a broken bone precipitates a diagnosis of multiple myeloma. Small fractures may occur prior to a major fracture such as the arm or leg. These fractures occur due to the same abnormal bone cell activity that causes bone pain.
Weight Loss
Weight loss may be an early warning sign of multiple myeloma. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center explains that this occurs due to the anemia found in the disease. This anemia is due to the lowered production of red blood cells.
