The effects of a stem cell transplant for multiple myeloma can vary. Here are some potential side effects:
Short-term side effects
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tiredness
- Mouth sores
- Bleeding problems
- Anemia (low red blood cell levels), leading to fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and pale skin
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The effects of a stem cell transplant for multiple myeloma can vary. Here are some potential side effects:
Short-term side effects:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tiredness
- Mouth sores
- Bleeding problems
- Anemia (low red blood cell levels), leading to fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and pale skin
- Infections
Long-term side effects:
- Cataracts (clouded vision)
- Sexual side effects
- Early menopause
- Infertility (inability to have biological children)
- Increased chances of developing another type of cancer
- Graft-versus-host disease (for allogeneic transplants only)
Additional considerations:
- Fatigue may persist beyond the immediate recovery period.
- It may take months to fully recover.
- For allogeneic transplants, the threat of graft-versus-host disease never fully disappears and may require lifelong immunosuppressant medications.
Always discuss potential side effects with your doctor and report any health problems to your healthcare team.
August 2