Multiple Myeloma Supportive Care

For people with multiple myeloma, supportive care is used to prevent or control health problems that develop as a result of the disease or its treatment. Supportive care for multiple myeloma is also used to improve the patient's comfort and quality of life. While the specific nature of the multiple myeloma supportive care will depend on the health problems that develop, such care may involve medications, blood transfusions, dialysis, or other approaches.

 

Multiple Myeloma Supportive Care: An Introduction

In many cases, multiple myeloma and its treatment can lead to other health problems. Multiple myeloma supportive care is used to prevent or control these health problems and to improve the patient's comfort and quality of life.
 
Health problems that may develop as a result of multiple myeloma or its treatment can include:
 
  • Infection
  • Anemia
  • Pain
  • Thinning bones
  • Too much calcium in the blood
  • Kidney problems
  • Amyloidosis.
 
Infection
People with multiple myeloma get infections very easily. If an infection develops, it can be serious and should be treated promptly. Some people may need to stay in the hospital for treatment.
 
Anemia
Myeloma and its treatment can lead to anemia, which can make patients feel very tired. Drugs or blood transfusions can help with this problem.
 
Pain
Multiple myeloma often causes bone pain.

(Click Multiple Myeloma Bone Pain for more information.)
 
Thinning Bones
Myeloma cells keep new bone cells from forming, which can cause bones to become thin. Your doctor may give you drugs to prevent bone thinning and to help reduce the risk of fractures. Physical activity, such as walking, can also help keep bones strong.
(Multiple Myeloma Supportive Care Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD