Early Signs of Multiple Myeloma You Shouldn't Ignore

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that develops in plasma cells, a critical component of the immune system. In its early stages, this condition often presents with vague and nonspecific symptoms, making it difficult to detect. As a result, many patients are initially misdiagnosed or seek care in specialties such as orthopedics, rheumatology, nephrology, or pulmonology—rather than hematology—where the root cause may be overlooked.

Common Early Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma

One of the most frequent early signs of multiple myeloma is bone pain, particularly in the back, ribs, or hips. This discomfort occurs because abnormal plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and interfere with normal bone remodeling, leading to weakened bones and even fractures over time.

Anemia and Fatigue

Anemia is another hallmark symptom. As cancerous plasma cells crowd out healthy blood-forming cells in the bone marrow, red blood cell production drops. This leads to fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and pale skin—symptoms that are often mistaken for other common conditions.

Frequent Infections

Because myeloma disrupts the body's ability to produce functional antibodies, patients become more susceptible to recurrent infections—especially respiratory tract infections like pneumonia or bronchitis. The immune system's compromised state makes it harder to fight off even minor illnesses.

Kidney Problems and Foamy Urine

Impaired kidney function is a significant concern in early multiple myeloma. Excess abnormal proteins (known as M proteins) produced by malignant plasma cells can damage the kidneys. This may lead to symptoms such as swelling in the legs, fatigue, and notably, foamy urine, which suggests proteinuria—a key warning sign.

What Should You Do If You Notice These Symptoms?

If you're experiencing persistent bone pain, unexplained fatigue, repeated infections, or changes in urination, it's important to consult a hematologist. Early evaluation can make a major difference in treatment outcomes.

Routine health screenings may also uncover hidden clues. For example, elevated levels of immunoglobulins or protein in the urine during a standard blood or urine test could indicate an underlying plasma cell disorder, including multiple myeloma.

Early detection saves lives. While the symptoms may seem mild or unrelated at first, recognizing the patterns and seeking specialized care promptly can lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective management of the disease.