Community post
Managing Fatigue When Myeloma Is Stable?
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Hi.
I have procrastinated joining a group since I was diagnosed in 2018, but am so glad to have finally taken action.
After a case of bronchitis and a visit to the ED because the coughing was so painful, a chest X-ray showed multiple rib fractures in various stages of healing. Things progressed from there to a MGUS dx, then on to MM, bone lesions on my femur and spine, up to having an internal fixator device placed in my left leg because of destruction to my femur.
After surgery, I began treatment initially with Velcade and dexamethasone and later adding Revlimid with bisphosphonate therapy IV q 3 mos. Radiation on my spine helped with the pain and after 4 years of treatment, my MM blood panels remain stable.
The journey up to this point has been a blessing as much as a burden. While spiritually and emotionally I have always been at peace; my physical state has been a challenge and some days, like today, I feel completely discouraged.
Although I rejoice that this is as close to the unspoken state of "remission" as it gets; I am exhausted with the slightest activity, endure constant back pain, and am stifled by GI distress.
While these side effects minimally affect my quality of life, all in all treatments have been tolerable. I did not experience vomiting or hair loss as typically shown on TV and the Velcade injections were not very uncomfortable.
I guess I am just wondering if with a stable MM panel, should I continue to have this much fatigue?
Although I have increased my exercise regimen, I can not go a day without a pretty long nap. I am off work now for the summer, but have serious concerns as to whether or not I will be able to return to work 40 hours a week because whenever I do, problems with my health begin to emerge.
I appreciate your time and input and am praying for great outcomes for you all.
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