Both back pain and fatigue are very common experiences for people with myeloma, even before treatment begins. You're definitely not alone in feeling this way.
Back pain is one of the most frequently reported symptoms. It can range from dull and ongoing to sharp and sudden, and it may affect the lower back, spine, or even Show Full Answer
Both back pain and fatigue are very common experiences for people with myeloma, even before treatment begins. You're definitely not alone in feeling this way.
Back pain is one of the most frequently reported symptoms. It can range from dull and ongoing to sharp and sudden, and it may affect the lower back, spine, or even radiate into the legs. Fatigue with myeloma is also very real and can come from several sources, including:
- Anemia – myeloma can reduce red blood cell production, meaning less oxygen reaches your body's tissues
- Cytokines – inflammatory proteins that myeloma can trigger, leaving you feeling run down
- Pain – back pain itself can be exhausting to deal with day after day
- Emotional stress – a myeloma diagnosis, even when not yet active, carries a lot of weight mentally
One MyMyelomaTeam member put it perfectly: *"I never realized how exhausting it is to do laundry. I keep having to stop and rest my back."* It's really important to let your doctor know about both the back pain and fatigue. They can run blood tests to check for anemia or other markers, and help figure out the best way to manage these symptoms. Don't just push through — there are options to help.
June 4
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