Yes, intense fatigue after starting induction therapy is very common and completely expected. Fatigue is one of the most frequently reported experiences among people with myeloma, and treatment itself is a major contributor. Several factors can pile on at once when treatment begins, including:
- The myeloma itself Show Full Answer
Yes, intense fatigue after starting induction therapy is very common and completely expected. Fatigue is one of the most frequently reported experiences among people with myeloma, and treatment itself is a major contributor. Several factors can pile on at once when treatment begins, including:
- The myeloma itself triggering inflammation in the body
- Side effects from chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or other myeloma drugs
- Pain from bone damage or nerve-related discomfort
- Emotional stress from the diagnosis and all the appointments, medications, and bills that come with it
- Other medications that may interact with your treatment
The good news is that as treatment starts working and myeloma responds, fatigue often improves too. As one specialist put it — if the big picture gets better, energy levels tend to follow. In the meantime, some things that may help include:
- Light exercise like short daily walks
- Pacing yourself and doing tasks when energy is highest
- Practicing good sleep habits
- Leaning on friends and family for help
It's always worth mentioning severe fatigue to your care team, as some causes — like low hemoglobin or medication interactions — can sometimes be addressed directly.
August 22
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