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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.

Fatigue

A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
New London, OH

I am 5 months post transplant. It was successful and I’m told I’m in remission. On a 2 year maintenance program. I have felt pretty good but lately I’m feeling more fatigued. Is this normal? Will it ebb and flow? As a very previously healthy and active person, I find this discouraging. The Lord is my strength and I know He’s in control. Also, I’ve lost 18 pounds through this ordeal and only gained 3 back in 5 months. I thought it might be encouraging to hear someone else’s thoughts/experiences… read more

January 24, 2022
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A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Thank you Pap and Kathy. And all you huggers💕 I do try to be active as much as possible. My husband and I walk 1 1/2 - 2 miles daily even in this frigid snowy weather. It’s one of the highlights of my day. I’m hoping to resume golf this spring if my Dr. approves it. My maintenance was set by my Dr. Revlimid 21 days on and 7 days off along with 1darzalex infusion monthly. After 2 years he said we wait and watch. I appreciate those who took their time to respond, it was helpful. May God continue to give us all the grace and strength we so need.

January 24, 2022
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Hi Nana, Yes, I , too, experience fatigue...I know I have not been active as I should be due to lower back pain (not related to myeloma). I think my inactivity has made my fatigue worse than it should be. I encourage you to be as active as possible. I went through a sct but did not go into remission. We not other chemo combinations and a year later went into remission with darcelex and kyprolis. I wondered how long to stay on maintenance. I read you were on maintenance for two years. Not sure how long to stay on maintenance. God bless you and all of us on this journey..
Kathy Brown, from Oklahoma City

January 24, 2022
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Oh yes fatigue is very common! And only 5 months after sct is early. I am on Revlimid and it causes fatigue too. I try to stay active, it helps me!!
Take care! 😊

January 25, 2022
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Hi Nana.
Yes. Fatigue seems to come and go.
You'll see people here stating that they're having a good day. They're more than likely feeling as close to normal as possible.
I'm also having trouble adjusting to my lack of mobility from medication and pain. I hate the fact it takes me longer to do any common tasks.
On the upside, it has taught me not to take so much for granted.
I hope this helps some.

Charlie

January 24, 2022 (edited)
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Fatigue is a common symptom in people with multiple myeloma and can significantly impact quality of life. Here are some key points about fatigue related to multiple myeloma:

Causes of Fatigue
1. Anemia:
- Myeloma cells interfere with bone marrow function, leading to a shortage of erythrocytes (red blood cells).
- Show Full Answer

Fatigue is a common symptom in people with multiple myeloma and can significantly impact quality of life. Here are some key points about fatigue related to multiple myeloma:

Causes of Fatigue:
1. Anemia:
- Myeloma cells interfere with bone marrow function, leading to a shortage of erythrocytes (red blood cells).
- Symptoms of anemia include rapid heartbeat, swollen legs, dizziness, headaches, chills, and decreased libido.
- About 60-70% of people with multiple myeloma present with anemia at diagnosis.

2. Cytokines:
- High levels of cytokines, small proteins released by T lymphocytes, can cause fatigue.
- Cytokines can promote cancer cell growth and spread, contributing to fatigue.

3. Pain:
- Pain associated with multiple myeloma can also lead to fatigue.

4. Treatments:
- Chemotherapy, corticosteroids, and radiation therapy can cause fatigue.
- Chemotherapy side effects like insomnia, mood changes, muscle wasting, nausea, and vomiting contribute to fatigue.
- Corticosteroids can initially cause sleeplessness followed by a "crash" leading to persistent fatigue.
- Radiation therapy can cause fatigue, which may worsen over time and last up to four weeks after treatment.

Managing Fatigue:
1. Exercise:
- Regular, light exercise such as walking or low- to moderate-intensity resistance and aerobic training can help reduce fatigue.

2. Routine Activities:
- Keeping up with daily activities can combat fatigue and stress.

3. Medical Consultation:
- Discussing fatigue with healthcare providers can help find strategies to manage it.
- Adjusting medication timing or treating anemia can improve energy levels.

4. Personalized Approach:
- There is no single solution for everyone; management plans should be tailored to individual needs.

Emotional and Physical Impact:
- Fatigue from multiple myeloma can interfere with work, social life, and daily tasks.
- It is often described as more than just tiredness, as it cannot be resolved with rest alone.
- The emotional burden of diagnosis, treatment, and associated anxiety or depression can compound physical fatigue.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the article titled "5 Causes of Multiple Myeloma Fatigue and 4 Ways To Manage It" on MyMyelomaTeam.

July 12

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