Multiple Myeloma: Symptoms

What are the symptoms of multiple myeloma?

Multiple myeloma often does not cause symptoms at first. Sometimes it’s only found after a blood or urine test that was done for another reason.

When myeloma does cause symptoms, they tend to be linked to the different problems this type of cancer can cause. For instance:

Symptoms from bone tumors include:

Bone pain, especially in your back, ribs, hip bones, arms, collarbone, and skull. This is the most common symptom.
Broken bones (pathologic fractures) caused by tumors. Most common site is in the bones in the spine (vertebrae).
Numbness or weakness if the tumors affect the bones and nerves in your spine. This is most often felt in your feet or legs.

Symptoms from too much calcium (hypercalcemia) in your blood include:

Extreme thirst
Urinating often
Constipation
Belly pain
Drowsiness or confusion
Upset stomach (nausea)
Loss of appetite
Weakness
Kidney damage

Symptoms from your bone marrow not making enough normal blood cells include:

Weakness, extreme tiredness (fatigue), or shortness of breath. This is from having too few red blood cells (anemia).
Frequent infections and fever. This is due to having too few white blood cells.
Easy bleeding or bruising. This is from having too few platelets.

When to see your healthcare provider

Many of these symptoms can be caused by other health problems. See your healthcare provider if you have these symptoms. Only a healthcare provider can tell if you have multiple myeloma.

Online Medical Reviewer: Jessica Gotwals RN BSN MPH
Online Medical Reviewer: Susan K. Dempsey-Walls APRN
Online Medical Reviewer: Todd Gersten MD

Date Last Reviewed: 8/1/2023