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Real members of MyMyelomaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
March 30
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A MyMyelomaTeam Member

@A MyMyelomaTeam Member I have experienced an ear infection that got so bad my ear canal almost swelled shut, after a few days of antibiotic drops it cleared up. The strange thing I’ve noticed for over three years is that my right ear has felt full, it’s not painful but it’s not right either. When it first began I told my PCP who sent me to an ENT who looked at my ear and said it was fine, I haven’t said anything else about it quite frankly because I’m tired of appointments, particularly appointments and tests without any answers. I’ve just marked it down as another weird myeloma thing that I’ll live with.

April 1 (edited)
MyMyelomaTeam

Has a common ear infection become more serious due to being immunocompromised?

When living with myeloma, the immune system is suppressed both by the disease itself and by treatments, making you more vulnerable to infections that can become more serious than they would be otherwise. People with myeloma are seven times more Show Full Answer

Has a common ear infection become more serious due to being immunocompromised?

When living with myeloma, the immune system is suppressed both by the disease itself and by treatments, making you more vulnerable to infections that can become more serious than they would be otherwise. People with myeloma are seven times more likely to develop infections compared to the general population.

While ear infections aren't specifically mentioned in the available information, myeloma does increase susceptibility to various types of infections including:

* Respiratory infections
* Staphylococcus infections
* E. coli infections
* Fungal infections
* Viral infections
* Gastrointestinal infections
* Urinary infections

Any infection can potentially become more serious when you're immunocompromised. It's important to watch for warning signs like fever, new areas of tenderness or swelling, chills, or worsening symptoms.

If you're experiencing an ear infection that seems to be getting worse or not responding to treatment, contact your healthcare team right away. They can assess whether more aggressive treatment is needed and monitor for complications.

March 30

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