Presence of abnormal proteins — which can be produced by myeloma cells — in your blood or urine. These proteins — which are antibodies or parts of antibodies — are called monoclonal, or M, proteins. Often discovered during a routine exam, monoclonal proteins may indicate multiple myeloma, but also can indicate other conditions.       
    
High level of calcium in your blood. This can occur when calcium from affected bones dissolves into your blood.     
    
If you have a high calcium level in your blood, you may experience signs and symptoms such as:
           
  • Excessive thirst and urination
  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Mental confusion

     

Anemia can occur as myeloma cells replace oxygen-carrying red blood cells in your bone marrow, which may lead to another common symptom — fatigue.     
    
Other signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma may include:
           
  • Bone pain, particularly in your back or ribs
  • Unexplained bone fractures
  • Repeated infections — such as pneumonia, bladder or kidney infection, or sinusitis
  • Weight loss
  • Weakness or numbness in your legs

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BonePainChart.jpg
Typical Bone Pain Areas