Coping With Common Multiple Myeloma Side Effects

Although it’s considered a rare cancer, African Americans are twice as likely to be diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Multiple myeloma is a cancer which forms as the result of an overgrowth of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow.

While no one knows for sure what causes multiple myeloma, you’re more likely to get it if:

• You are older than 65
• You are African-American
• You have a family member with it

If you or a loved one is living with multiple myeloma, common side effects and symptoms include bone pain, weakness, fatigue, weight loss, and even kidney damage. According to “Living Well With Myeloma Your Essential Guide,” there are several ways one can cope with the side effects and symptoms associated with the uncommon cancer.

Pain

Bone pain is a common symptom for sufferers. When myeloma cells in the bone marrow affect the surrounding bone, it becomes weak, brittle and breaks down much faster than it can be repaired. It most often occurs in the middle or lower back, the hips and the rib cage.

For relief, you can try the following:

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• Take pain-killers (bisphosphonates) as prescribed, regularly.
• If you’re taking painkillers as prescribed, but find that they’re not effective, tell your                     doctor or nurse, who can perform a case of trial and error to find the best treatment for you.
• Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and diclofenac   (Voltarol®) as they can damage the kidneys.

Fatigue

Extreme tiredness is a very common problem for myeloma patients. It can leave you unable to perform daily tasks or unable to think straight.

For relief, you can try the following:

• Eat a well-balanced diet. Poor nutrition can increase fatigue.
• Make getting enough sleep a priority. Go to bed and get up at the same time every day.
• Get exercise every day. This can improve your energy levels.

Nausea and Vomiting

Tummy troubles like nausea and vomiting are two main side-effects caused by popular myeloma treatments. While anti-sickness (anti-emetic) drugs are available to prevent and control both, there are several ways to bypass queasiness and the urge to hurl.

For relief, you can try the following:

• Avoid cooking foods like curries and keep the window open a little during food preparation.
• Try to take your mind off thinking about sickness – talk to people, watch a film or listen to soothing music to distract yourself.
• Get some fresh air.

Hair loss/Thinning

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With some forms of treatment, such as chemotherapy, patients may experience thinning of hair or lose it altogether.

You can try the following:

• Cut hair before treatment to keep it looking better during loss and regrowth (regrowth may be thinner, darker, curlier or finer).
• Try accessorizing with hats.
• Wigs and scarves may also be helpful.

Dry Mouth

Some chemotherapy drugs can cause dry mouth or soreness – caused by small ulcers developing on the roof or inside of your cheeks — making eating difficult.

For relief, you can try the following:

• Avoid spicy, salty or tangy foods.
• Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
• Drink cold drinks (through a straw) to soothe a sore mouth.
• Try sucking on ice cubes or popsicles.

With proper medication and these helpful tips, it is possible to manage living with multiple myeloma. Be sure to speak with your doctor to create the best plan of care for yourself or a loved one.