Confusion in myeloma can stem from several different causes. It's often described as feeling foggy, disoriented, or having trouble thinking clearly. Here's what can trigger it:
- Hypercalcemia – When calcium builds up in the blood, it can cause confusion, drowsiness, and disorientation alongside symptoms like extreme Show Full Answer
Confusion in myeloma can stem from several different causes. It's often described as feeling foggy, disoriented, or having trouble thinking clearly. Here's what can trigger it:
- Hypercalcemia – When calcium builds up in the blood, it can cause confusion, drowsiness, and disorientation alongside symptoms like extreme thirst and frequent urination
- Cognitive decline – Myeloma (and its treatments) can affect mental sharpness over time, making it harder to focus, plan, multitask, or remember things
- Anemia – Low red blood cell counts reduce oxygen to the brain, contributing to that "foggy" feeling
- Medications – Certain treatments, including steroids and chemotherapy, can affect mental clarity In terms of how it's experienced day-to-day, cognitive changes can affect:
- Paying attention and staying focused
- Short-term memory
- Following instructions
- Planning and multitasking
The longer someone lives with myeloma, the more likely these changes may become noticeable. It's worth flagging any new or worsening confusion to your doctor promptly, as some causes — like hypercalcemia — need quick attention.
June 1
Sometimes fatigue or poor sleep can also give one that foggy feeling.
June 7
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