Sign 8: Weakness or Numbness in Legs
Multiple myeloma’s love for the bone marrow makes the spine a prime target. The spine doesn’t just support us; it also houses a significant portion of our bone marrow. As myeloma cells thrive here, they can start pressing against the spinal cord, leading to a range of neurological symptoms.
One of the first signs that something’s amiss is a sudden weakness or numbness in the legs. It might start off as a mere tingle, a sensation that’s easy to dismiss. But as time progresses, this can intensify, with sharp pains sometimes shooting down the legs.
Beyond the immediate discomfort, there’s a larger threat looming. Compression of the spinal cord, if severe and left untreated, can lead to irreversible damage. In the worst-case scenario, this could mean paralysis. Hence, any neurological symptom, however minor it seems, should be a cause for concern.
This symptom is a testament to how invasive multiple myeloma can be. It’s not just the bones or the blood that it impacts. Its effects can ripple across the body, affecting vital systems and significantly hampering one’s quality of life.
To sum it up, if you or someone you know starts experiencing leg weakness or numbness, especially if other signs of multiple myeloma are present, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and intervention can be the difference between manageable discomfort and life-altering consequences. (8)
