Understanding Multiple Myeloma and Treatment Options
Learn about multiple myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells, including its symptoms, causes, its effects on health, and available treatment options to help manage the condition effectively.
Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 28th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Facing a diagnosis of multiple myeloma can be overwhelming, but understanding the condition and knowing your treatment options can help you feel more in control. This article aims to explain multiple myeloma in simple terms, covering its symptoms, causes, and how it affects your health. We’ll also discuss ways to manage the condition and the latest treatment options available.
What Is Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells, which are a part of your immune system. Normally, plasma cells produce antibodies to help fight infections. However, in multiple myeloma, these cells become cancerous, multiply uncontrollably, and crowd out healthy blood cells in the bone marrow.
This overgrowth of abnormal plasma cells can lead to complications such as weakened bones, kidney problems, and a weakened immune system. While multiple myeloma is not curable, treatments can help manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life.
Consult an Oncologist for the best advice
Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma
The symptoms of multiple myeloma can vary from person to person. Some people may not experience any symptoms in the early stages, while others may notice:
- Bone pain (especially in the back or ribs)
- Fatigue and weakness (due to anemia)
- Frequent infections (because of weakened immunity)
- Kidney problems (leading to swelling, nausea, or confusion)
- Excessive thirst and urination (due to high calcium levels)
- Numbness or tingling (if the cancer affects nerves)
- If you experience any of these symptoms persistently, it’s important to consult a doctor for further evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of multiple myeloma is unknown, but certain factors may increase the risk:
- Age – Most cases occur in people over 60.
- Gender – Men are slightly more likely to develop it than women.
- Family history – Having a close relative with myeloma increases risk.
- Race – African Americans are at higher risk.
- Obesity – Being overweight may contribute.
- Exposure to radiation or chemicals – Certain toxins may play a role.
- While these factors increase risk, many people with multiple myeloma have no known risk factors.
How Multiple Myeloma Affects Health
Multiple myeloma can impact different parts of the body:
- Bones – Cancer cells weaken bones, increasing fracture risk.
- Kidneys – Abnormal proteins can damage kidney function.
- Blood – Anaemia (low red blood cells) can cause fatigue.
- Immune system – Reduced healthy plasma cells make infections more likely.
- Early diagnosis and treatment help prevent complications and improve outcomes.
Treatment Options for Multiple Myeloma
Treatment depends on the stage of the disease, overall health, and symptoms. Common approaches include:
1. Chemotherapy
- Uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
- Often combined with other treatments.
2. Targeted Therapy
Drugs like proteasome inhibitors (bortezomib) and immunomodulators (lenalidomide) specifically attack myeloma cells.
3. Immunotherapy
Boosts the immune system to fight cancer (e.g., monoclonal antibodies).
4. Stem Cell Transplant
Replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
5. Radiation Therapy
Used to relieve bone pain or shrink tumors.
6. Supportive Treatments
Bisphosphonates to strengthen bones.
- Pain management for bone discomfort.
- Dialysis if kidneys are affected.
- Your doctor will tailor a treatment plan based on your needs.
Lifestyle and Self-Care Tips
While medical treatment is essential, certain lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve well-being:
- Eat a balanced diet – Focus on protein, calcium, and vitamin D for bone health.
Stay hydrated – Helps kidney function.- Exercise gently – Walking or light yoga can strengthen bones.
- Avoid infections – Wash hands frequently and stay up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Get emotional support – Counselling or support groups can help cope with stress.
When to Seek Medical Help
If you experience:
- Severe bone pain
- Sudden weight loss
- Persistent fatigue
- Frequent infections
- Consult a doctor immediately. Early intervention improves outcomes.
How Apollo24|7 Can Help?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, Apollo24|7 offers:
- Expert consultations with oncologists.
- Advanced diagnostic tests (blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, imaging).
- Personalized treatment plans.
- You can easily book a consultation or schedule tests through the Apollo24|7 app or website.
Final Thoughts
Multiple myeloma is a serious condition, but advances in treatment have improved survival rates and quality of life. By staying informed, following medical advice, and adopting healthy habits, patients can manage the disease effectively.
Consult an Oncologist for the best advice
Consult an Oncologist for the best advice
Dr. Rupam Manna
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
4 Years • MBBS MD(RADIO THERAPY)
Barasat
Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat
Dr Devashish Tripathi
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
20 Years • MBBS, PLAB, MRCP (UK)- General Medicine, FRCR (Oncology), Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT)- Clinical Oncology
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr Sunita Samleti
Oncologist
18 Years • M.D. (Pathology)- TN Medical College, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Mar 2005 M.B.B.S. Grant Medical College, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Oct 1999
Chinagadila
Apollo Hospitals Health City Unit, Chinagadila
Dr. Gopal Kumar
Head, Neck and Thyroid Cancer Surgeon
15 Years • MBBS, MS , FARHNS ( Seoul, South Korea ), FGOLF ( MSKCC, New York )
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr.sanchayan Mandal
Oncologist
17 Years • MBBS, DrNB( MEDICAL ONCOLOGY), DNB (RADIOTHERAPY),ECMO. PDCR. ASCO
Kolkata
Dr. Sanchayan Mandal Oncology Clinic, Kolkata
Consult an Oncologist for the best advice
Dr. Rupam Manna
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
4 Years • MBBS MD(RADIO THERAPY)
Barasat
Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat
Dr Devashish Tripathi
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
20 Years • MBBS, PLAB, MRCP (UK)- General Medicine, FRCR (Oncology), Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT)- Clinical Oncology
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr Sunita Samleti
Oncologist
18 Years • M.D. (Pathology)- TN Medical College, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Mar 2005 M.B.B.S. Grant Medical College, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Oct 1999
Chinagadila
Apollo Hospitals Health City Unit, Chinagadila
Dr. Gopal Kumar
Head, Neck and Thyroid Cancer Surgeon
15 Years • MBBS, MS , FARHNS ( Seoul, South Korea ), FGOLF ( MSKCC, New York )
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr.sanchayan Mandal
Oncologist
17 Years • MBBS, DrNB( MEDICAL ONCOLOGY), DNB (RADIOTHERAPY),ECMO. PDCR. ASCO
Kolkata
Dr. Sanchayan Mandal Oncology Clinic, Kolkata
