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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.
July 18
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MyMyelomaTeam

Breathing difficulties and a cough with phlegm can both be connected to myeloma, so it's worth taking these symptoms seriously and speaking with your doctor soon.

Here's how myeloma can contribute to breathing problems:

- Anemia – Myeloma can reduce red blood cell counts, meaning less oxygen gets carried around your body Show Full Answer

Breathing difficulties and a cough with phlegm can both be connected to myeloma, so it's worth taking these symptoms seriously and speaking with your doctor soon.

Here's how myeloma can contribute to breathing problems:

- Anemia – Myeloma can reduce red blood cell counts, meaning less oxygen gets carried around your body, making breathing harder
- Kidney problems – When kidneys are affected by myeloma, fluid and waste can build up in the lungs
- Weakened immune system – Myeloma and its treatments can lower your ability to fight infections, which could explain the cough and phlegm Alcohol can also play a role here. It can worsen fatigue and further suppress an already weakened immune system, which may be making your breathing feel harder when drinking.

The cough with phlegm could suggest a mild infection, which people with myeloma are more vulnerable to. That combination of symptoms — especially alongside alcohol — is worth flagging with your oncologist promptly. Don't wait on this one!

July 18
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

I rarely have an alcohol drink. I am speaking of any fluids. Water, tea, lemonade ect.

July 18

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