Side Effects of Multiple Myeloma Treatment
Multiple myeloma treatment may damage healthy cells and tissues, which may lead to unwanted side effects. Specific side effects will depend on many factors, including the type and extent of the
multiple myeloma treatment. Side effects may not be the same for each person, and they may even change from one multiple myeloma treatment session to the next. Healthcare providers should explain the possible side effects and suggest ways to manage them before multiple myeloma treatment begins.
Multiple Myeloma Treatment: Nutrition
It is important to eat well during and after multiple myeloma treatment. Eating right may help patients feel better and have more energy. However, eating well can be hard, especially during or soon after multiple myeloma treatment when patients may be uncomfortable or tired. Side effects of treatment include:
In addition, food may taste differently than it used to before treatment. A registered dietitian can suggest ways to deal with these problems.
Multiple Myeloma Treatment: Clinical Trials
Before starting multiple myeloma treatment, patients may want to consider taking part in a clinical trial. A treatment clinical trial is a
multiple myeloma research study that is meant to improve current treatments or obtain information on new treatments for patients with multiple myeloma. When clinical trials show that a new multiple myeloma treatment is better than the standard treatment, the new treatment may become the standard treatment.
Multiple Myeloma Treatment: Follow-up Care
Follow-up care after treatment for multiple myeloma is important. Even when there are no longer any signs of cancer, the disease can return if there are undetected cancer cells remaining somewhere in the body after multiple myeloma treatment. During follow-up for multiple myeloma treatment, doctors will monitor your recovery and check for recurrence of the cancer. Checkups help ensure that any changes in your health are noted and treated if needed. Checkups may include:
- A physical exam
- Lab tests
- Bone marrow aspiration
- X-rays.
Between scheduled visits, patients should contact their doctor if they experience any health problems.
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