Scottsdale, Arizona - Multiple myeloma may cause a number of complications. Some of the most common include bone problems, infections, kidney problems and a low red blood cell count (anemia). You can take steps to help prevent and manage these complications. But you'll also likely need treatment for the complications, in addition to treatment for multiple myeloma.

Bone problems

Bone loss, fractures and bone pain are common. To repair or stabilize your bones and reduce pain, your doctor may recommend chemotherapy or radiation along with:

• Medications. Bisphosphonates reduce bone loss. Pain medications can help control pain.
• Surgery. Insertion of metal rods, plates or bone cement can repair or strengthen bones. Surgery can reduce pain from pressure on your spinal cord if other treatments such as radiation don't help.

You can also:

• Stay as active as possible to help maintain bone density. But avoid activities that put you at risk for injury. Ask your doctor about activities that are safe for you.
• Take calcium and vitamin D supplements to help maintain bone density. Ask your doctor about which medications and what doses are best for you.

Frequent infections

During the first three or four months of multiple myeloma treatment, you may be especially vulnerable to infections. To protect against infection, your doctor may suggest:

• Vaccines for the flu and pneumonia.
• Antibiotic and antiviral drugs.
• Antibody treatments. If you have serious, recurrent infections, you may need an antibody treatment (immunoglobulin) given through an intravenous (IV) line.
• Drugs that stimulate the production of white blood cells (colony stimulating factors) if your white blood cell count is very low.

It's also a good idea to:

• Wash your hands frequently and remind others around you to do so.
• Avoid sharing personal items, such as towels, wash cloths or drinking glasses with anyone, including your family.
• Avoid those who're sick and crowded places, if possible.
• Call your doctor at the first sign of infection, such as a fever, so you can be treated before it becomes more serious.

Kidney problems

When your kidneys don't work well, you may be nauseated, have trouble sleeping, feel weak and be confused. Treatment depends on the cause of kidney damage, but your doctor may recommend:

• Fluids given through an IV line in a vein.
• Checking for abnormal blood values, such as an elevated calcium level.
• A lower dosage of any medications that can affect the kidneys.
• Chemotherapy to help improve your kidney function.
• Filtering your blood through an external machine (dialysis).

You can also:

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Limit alcohol, which can be dehydrating.
• Avoid smoking, which speeds kidney decline.
• Ask your doctor or a dietitian about changes you can make in your diet that may help keep your kidneys healthier.
• Talk to your doctor before taking any new medications. This includes prescription or over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and herbal supplements. Some may harm the kidneys.

Low red blood cell count (anemia)

Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, weakness and dizziness. If you have anemia, your doctor may advise:

• Certain vitamins and supplements, such as iron, folate and vitamin B-12.
• Drugs to stimulate your bone marrow to make more red blood cells.
• Red blood cell transfusions if your anemia is severe.

You can also help by eating foods high in:

• Iron, such as lean meats and seafood, beans, lentils, iron-fortified cereals, dark-green leafy vegetables, and dried fruit.
• Folate, such as citrus fruits and juices, bananas, dark-green leafy vegetables, legumes and fortified breads, cereals, and pasta.
• Vitamin B-12, such as lean meat and dairy products and some cereals.
• Vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, melons and berries.