What Is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a condition that affects a specific type of white blood cell called plasma cells. These cells are a critical part of the immune system, helping produce antibodies to fight off infection. In multiple myeloma, these plasma cells grow uncontrollably and begin crowding out healthy cells in the bone marrow.

As the abnormal cells multiply, they may interfere with bone strength, blood production, and the body's immune response. But this doesn’t usually happen overnight.

Instead, many people begin experiencing changes so mild they feel like everyday fatigue or simple aging. That’s why early awareness can make such a big difference—not in treatment promises, but in informed conversations with healthcare professionals.

Subtle Symptom #1: Persistent, Unexplained Fatigue

Everyone feels tired sometimes. But one of the earliest signs people report—especially women—is a deep fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest. It’s not just “I need more sleep.” It’s a kind of tired that lingers, making daily tasks feel heavier than usual.

This fatigue often stems from the way myeloma cells crowd out normal blood production, particularly red blood cells, which carry oxygen. The result? A slow, creeping sense of energy loss.

Subtle Symptom #2: Frequent or Unusual Infections

Because myeloma affects the immune system’s ability to produce healthy antibodies, one common early warning is frequent colds, sinus infections, or other recurring illnesses. These aren’t always severe, but they tend to come back often—and take longer to clear up.

If someone notices they’re getting sick more often or staying sick longer, it’s worth noting and sharing with a provider.

Subtle Symptom #3: Bone Discomfort or Pressure

One of the classic signs of progressing multiple myeloma is bone pain—particularly in the back or ribs. But in early stages, it may not register as “pain” at all.

People describe it more as a dull ache, stiffness, or discomfort after sitting or standing for a while. It can easily be mistaken for muscular tension, aging, or minor strain. That’s what makes it tricky—it doesn’t feel alarming.

Over time, as myeloma cells interfere with bone density, this pressure may increase. But even the initial signs are worth tracking.

Subtle Symptom #4: Unusual Bruising or Bleeding

Myeloma can interfere with platelet production, the part of the blood that helps with clotting. In early stages, this might lead to easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, or gums that bleed during brushing—even without dental issues.

Again, on their own, these signs may not raise immediate concern. But combined with other subtle symptoms, they may point to something worth looking into.

Subtle Symptom #5: Numbness or Tingling

Some people with early myeloma experience numbness, tingling, or a pins-and-needles feeling in their hands or feet. This can happen due to nerve damage related to abnormal proteins the cancer cells release.

While this could also signal other conditions like diabetes or poor circulation, the pattern and persistence matter. If the feeling appears without an obvious cause—and especially if it’s paired with fatigue or other listed symptoms—it becomes part of a bigger picture.

Subtle Symptom #6: Unexplained Weight Loss

Weight loss might sound like a positive change—especially if you’re not dieting. But when the body starts losing weight without effort, and especially if appetite hasn’t changed, it can sometimes signal an internal imbalance.

In the case of multiple myeloma, the body’s energy can become redirected toward fighting abnormal cell growth—leading to involuntary weight loss over time.

This isn't always dramatic, but noticing that clothes are looser or that weight is dropping for no reason is something that warrants attention.

Why Many Early Symptoms Go Unnoticed

Here’s the challenge: almost every early sign of multiple myeloma is subtle—and nonspecific. That means they can easily be explained away by stress, age, or lifestyle.

Fatigue? Could be work.

Aches? Maybe poor posture.

Bruising? Just a bump I forgot about.

Infections? It’s that time of year.

That’s exactly why many people don’t bring these signs up until later—when they’ve grown harder to ignore. But being proactive doesn’t require fear or self-diagnosis—it just means paying attention.

What To Do If You’re Noticing a Pattern

Not every symptom listed here points to multiple myeloma—or any serious condition. But if you’re experiencing a combination of these signs over time, it might be worth having a conversation with a healthcare professional.

That conversation may lead to:

A blood test

A referral to a specialist

A monitoring plan for symptoms

There’s no downside to staying informed—and plenty of value in being proactive.

For Women: Noticing the Early Clues

Research shows that women may experience or interpret symptoms differently, sometimes attributing them to stress, hormones, or “just aging.” But early signs of myeloma in women are not necessarily different—they’re just easier to overlook.

Staying tuned into your body—especially if you’re seeing repeated patterns of tiredness, discomfort, or changes that feel “off”—can help you advocate for your own health.