Normal plasma cells found in the bone marrow are a crucial component of the immune system. In the case of Multiple Myeloma (MM), abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow multiply rapidly and spread to other body parts. Also known as Kahler’s disease, there is currently no cure for the condition. Though some treatments can help slow down the spread of the disease and make symptoms go away.
Factors that Could Increase the Risk of Multiple Myeloma
While there is no real consensus on what causes MM there are some factors, which can put one at risk and increase the likelihood of getting it. These include
Being older than 65
Being a man
Being African American
Being overweight or obese
Having been exposed to radiation
Having had contact with certain chemicals or herbicides
Having a family member with Multiple Myeloma
Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma
While there might not be any symptoms earlier on, over time one might begin to see one more of these symptoms.
MGUS
Multiple myeloma almost always begins with a condition called monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). Mostly this is a benign condition that shows the presence of M proteins in the blood. While abnormal plasma cells produce these proteins, the low levels they appear at don’t damage the body.
Bone Pain
MM interferes with the working of bone cells called Osteoclasts and Osteoblasts. The former handles breaking down bones while the latter helps form new bones. Myeloma cells speed up the rate at which bone is broken down, which leaves patients with weak, brittle bones and pain.
Fatigue
Overgrowth of plasma cells in bone marrow leaves no space for normal blood-forming cells, leading to anemia. This in turn can cause weakness and fatigue.
Besides these, people with Multiple Myeloma may also struggle with constipation, an upset stomach, frequent infections, excessive thirst, weight loss and lack of appetite, weakness, and numbness in extremities – mainly arms and legs. Other complications that may arise from MM include dealing with frequent infections due to MM cells disabling the body’s ability to fight infections and impaired kidney function which can even escalate to kidney failure in the long run.
