Understanding Stage III Multiple Myeloma

Many doctors refer to late-stage multiple myeloma as stage III. This is the stage you’re most likely to be in when doctors diagnose you. It’s hard to find it early since it often starts with no symptoms.

People with late-stage multiple myeloma often experience nausea, bone pain, easy bruising or bleeding, fatigue, weight loss, and frequent infections.

Stage III multiple myeloma is often diagnosed during blood or urine tests for another condition because it often does not come with symptoms. You may have high blood calcium levels, kidney damage, high levels of monoclonal immunoglobulin, low hemoglobin, and areas of bone damage.

There’s no cure for multiple myeloma. However, the five-year survival rate for stage III multiple myeloma is around 53%. Your individual rate may be impacted by factors like your kidney function, age, and overall health.

It can be helpful to include other supportive care in your regimen like physical therapy, acupuncture, support groups, exercise programs, or financial counselors. Palliative care doctors, social workers, and chaplains can also help you come to terms with your terminal cancer diagnosis.