Your bone marrow contains plasma cells. These cells are white blood cells that produce antibodies to help you fight disease. For reasons not yet understood, these cells can become cancerous and multiply out of control. When this happens you can develop multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. The American Cancer Society says that multiple myeloma might not cause symptoms until it is in advanced stages. Early symptoms may be so general that they do not indicate cancer. If you notice warning signs, your physician can order blood tests and bone scans to assist with diagnosis. As with many diseases, the earlier treatment starts, the better your chances for a positive outcome.
Pain
The pain associated with multiple myeloma occurs because your bones become weak and develop hairline fractures or even break. The Merck website claims that this happens because the abnormal plasma cells may invade the bones. The pain is usually felt in the lower back, ribs and hips. In addition, as the bones weaken they may place pressure on surrounding nerves, which can also cause pain and sensations of numbness.
Anemia
As your plasma cells multiply, they may interfere with the production of red blood cells. As your number of red blood cells decreases, you could develop anemia which can leave you feeling short of breath, dizzy, weak and and fatigued. Your blood may also have a hard time clotting, resulting in bruising and bleeding.
Increased Infections
Since the plasma cells that are being produced are not normal cells, your body will become more susceptible to infection. It will no longer have the necessary amount of white blood cells to fight off disease. As your immune system becomes increasingly depressed, you might develop bacterial pneumonia, urinary tract infections and shingles.
Kidney Disease
Your kidneys must filter and process the blood in your body. Multiple myeloma places a strain on your kidneys. As this condition breaks down bone, too much calcium can be released into the bloodstream, causing a condition called hypercalcemia. Your kidneys may become weak or even fail as they try to process the blood. The American Cancer Society states that if this occurs, you might experience a decrease in appetite, excessive thirst, muscle weakness, restlessness, confusion, constipation, frequent urination, nausea and vomiting.
