What Are the Symptoms During Remission in Multiple Myeloma Patients?
Understanding what happens during remission in multiple myeloma starts with recognizing the typical signs of the disease. Multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer affecting plasma cells in the bone marrow, often presents with a range of symptoms that can significantly impact daily life.
Common Symptoms of Active Multiple Myeloma
The most frequently reported symptoms include bone pain, especially in the back or ribs, caused by abnormal plasma cells weakening the bones. Many patients also experience persistent fatigue and weakness due to anemia—a condition where the body lacks healthy red blood cells. Other common manifestations include:
- Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy)
- Blurred vision or other visual disturbances
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Frequent infections due to compromised immune function
- Bleeding tendencies, such as easy bruising or nosebleeds
These symptoms arise because malignant plasma cells crowd out normal blood-forming cells and produce abnormal proteins that damage organs and bones.
What Happens During Remission?
With effective treatment—such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunomodulatory drugs, stem cell transplantation, or newer immunotherapies—many patients achieve remission. In this phase, cancer activity is significantly reduced. There are different levels of remission:
Partial Remission vs. Complete Remission
In partial remission, tests show a substantial decrease in cancer cells and M-protein levels, but some abnormal activity remains detectable. In contrast, complete remission means no signs of the disease can be found using standard diagnostic methods, including blood tests, urine tests, and bone marrow biopsies.
During deep remission, many patients become asymptomatic. Bone pain fades, energy levels improve, and neurological or vision issues may resolve. This period of stability allows individuals to regain quality of life and resume normal activities.
Monitoring for Relapse: Why Symptoms Matter
Even in remission, ongoing monitoring is essential. The absence of symptoms doesn't always guarantee long-term remission. If any of the original symptoms—such as unexplained bone pain, fatigue, frequent infections, or numbness—return, it could signal disease recurrence.
Early detection of relapse improves treatment outcomes. Regular follow-up appointments, blood work, and imaging studies help doctors catch biochemical signs of progression before symptoms reappear.
Staying Proactive in Remission
Patients in remission should maintain open communication with their healthcare team. Adopting a healthy lifestyle—including balanced nutrition, moderate exercise, and stress management—can support overall well-being and immune function.
Additionally, staying informed about emerging therapies and clinical trials offers hope for extended remission or future treatment options if needed.
In summary, while multiple myeloma can go into remission with little to no symptoms, vigilance remains key. Recognizing early warning signs and adhering to a structured monitoring plan empowers patients to take control of their long-term health journey.