Is it normal to still have fatigue, bone pain, and neuropathy during myeloma remission?
Yes, experiencing these symptoms during remission can be normal. Even when myeloma is under control, some symptoms may persist because remission means the cancer is less active, not completely gone.
Fatigue in remission
Fatigue Show Full Answer
Is it normal to still have fatigue, bone pain, and neuropathy during myeloma remission?
Yes, experiencing these symptoms during remission can be normal. Even when myeloma is under control, some symptoms may persist because remission means the cancer is less active, not completely gone.
Fatigue in remission:
Fatigue related to myeloma is different from regular tiredness. It's an extreme exhaustion that can't be resolved with rest and may continue even during remission. This can be caused by the cancer itself, previous treatments, or anemia.
Bone pain in remission:
Bone damage from myeloma doesn't always heal completely. Previous bone lesions, weakened bones, or osteoporosis can continue causing pain even when cancer levels are low. Some people also experience bone pain from bisphosphonates used to strengthen bones.
Neuropathy in remission:
Peripheral neuropathy is very common and can persist long after treatment ends. About 75 percent of people with myeloma develop neuropathy during treatment. Some MyMyelomaTeam members report neuropathy improving over time, while others say it never fully goes away.
One member shared: "I had numbness and severe bone pain that required a walker while I was in treatment. I've now walked without assistance for 10 years."
Another noted: "Neuropathy can take a long time to subside, or it may never go away."
It's worth having a detailed conversation with your oncologist about managing these ongoing symptoms, as there may be additional treatment options available.
January 28
Join
Your Privacy Choices
