Multiple myeloma cancer symptoms

Abnormal plasma cells can weaken bones, reduce healthy blood-cell production, and make an unusual protein. Bone involvement may cause persistent back, rib, hip, or other bone pain and can make fractures more likely. Fewer red blood cells may lead to tiredness, dizziness, or breathlessness. Reduced normal antibody production can make infections recur. High calcium may cause thirst, constipation, nausea, confusion, or muscle weakness. Kidney changes may show as swelling or less urine, although they can be silent.

Record when symptoms began, where pain occurs, changes in urine, fever, infections, thirst, weight, and activity. Arrange a medical assessment for persistent or unexplained symptoms, especially when several occur together. Evaluation may include blood and urine tests, imaging, and other tests selected by the clinician. If myeloma is diagnosed, care may include [Targeted Therapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/targeted-therapy/) or [Chemotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/chemotherapy/), or supportive treatment such as [Bone-Strengthening Therapy](/treatments/supportive-and-palliative-care/bone-strengthening-therapy/).

Seek urgent medical advice for a new severe bone or back pain, fever during cancer treatment, repeated vomiting, very little urine, or rapidly worsening weakness. Emergency care is needed for sudden leg weakness or numbness, new loss of bladder or bowel control, severe confusion, fainting, or trouble breathing. These signs can reflect infection, a fracture, spinal pressure, kidney injury, or high calcium.

Ask which symptoms could be related to the marrow, bones, kidneys, or blood counts, which tests are appropriate, and what change should prompt an urgent call. Ask how pain, infection risk, hydration, and treatment side effects will be monitored.