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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.

Whats the general healing time after an autologus stem cell transplant with side effects?

A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Richards Bay, ZA
May 6
 · 
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A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Zo, Chemo kills cancer, we hope. It's toxins, so your body rejects them. Kyphoplasty took care of my back pain, like right now!.
I'm 84 and free from MM since 2010. Give your husband my best. Oh, yeah, tell him I'm shooting for 100.

May 6
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

The symptoms you felt after they discharged you, extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, fevers, nausea, vomiting, back pain? Can you remember how long did those last? Especially the nausea, my husband is having such a rough time with nausea and insomnia...maxed out his anti nausea meds.
Persistent vomiting admitted him to the ER and all vitals look good, no real sign of infection.
Hes 45, just wondering how long it generally persists because it obviously affects his appetite.

Thank you for your reply, have you stayed MRD negative since? No signs of a relapse?

May 6
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Pretty much spot on except I was in the hospital for four days (NYU -Langone), released, then subsequently saw my team the first week
Monday - Friday, second week was 4x, third week and fourth week was 3x and fifth week 2x and then once a month. Which is where I am at since 09/24.
SCT/BMT on 06/24.

May 6
MyMyelomaTeam

Recovery after an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) happens in stages. Here's a general timeline to give you an idea of what to expect:

In the Hospital (2–3 weeks)
- Blood counts begin to recover over 2–6 weeks
- You'll be monitored closely for infections, bleeding, and fatigue

First 100 Days (Most Vulnerable Period) Show Full Answer

Recovery after an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) happens in stages. Here's a general timeline to give you an idea of what to expect:

In the Hospital (2–3 weeks)
- Blood counts begin to recover over 2–6 weeks
- You'll be monitored closely for infections, bleeding, and fatigue

First 100 Days (Most Vulnerable Period)
- Highest risk for infections, bleeding, and extreme tiredness
- You may need blood transfusions, antibiotics, or other supportive medications

6 Months to 1 Year
- This is roughly how long it can take for the immune system to fully recover
- Your care team will monitor blood counts and check for any remaining myeloma cells (called minimal residual disease, or MRD) Common side effects to be aware of during recovery include:

- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Fatigue and weakness
- Mouth and throat soreness
- Fever or infection risk
- Loss of appetite
- Trouble sleeping
- Skin rashes

A MyMyelomaTeam member who went through a transplant shared a helpful tip — chewing ice during chemo and the infusion can help prevent painful mouth sores. Small but mighty advice!

After recovery, most people go on to take maintenance medications for several years to help sustain the treatment response. Always lean on your healthcare team throughout this process — they're your best guide for what's normal and what needs attention.

May 6

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