What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia?

Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that produces large amounts of an abnormal protein (macroglobulin). This excess protein can lead to a variety of symptoms, which can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may have no symptoms at all, while others may experience severe symptoms.

The Most Common Signs and Symptoms of Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia include:

• Fatigue: This is a common symptom and is often due to anemia, a condition in which the body lacks enough red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the body's tissues.
• Weakness: This can be a result of anemia or the disease itself. It may be general or specific to certain parts of the body.
• Bleeding and bruising: This can occur due to the abnormal protein interfering with clotting. Nosebleeds and bleeding gums are common.
• Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss can occur in people with Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia.
• Swollen lymph nodes: The lymph nodes, especially those in the neck, may be enlarged.
• Enlarged liver or spleen: These organs may be enlarged due to the disease.
• Neuropathy: This refers to damage to the peripheral nerves, which can cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness, usually in the hands or feet.
• Visual problems: Some people may experience blurred vision or other visual problems due to the thickening of the blood caused by the excess protein.
• Confusion or dizziness: These can be symptoms of hyperviscosity, a condition in which the blood becomes too thick.

Seek Care For Your Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. While these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia, they warrant a medical evaluation. Early detection and treatment of Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia can help to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.

It's also important to have regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider if you have been diagnosed with Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia. This will allow your healthcare provider to monitor your condition and adjust your treatment as necessary.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and want to know what has worked for other blood cancer patients, visit HealthTree's Side Effect Solutions tool. Here you can search for the symptoms you are experiencing and read about what's worked (and what hasn't worked) for patients just like you.

Want to Learn More About Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia?

Keep reading HealthTree for Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia's 101 pages!

• What Is Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia?
• How Is Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia Diagnosed?
• How Long Will I Live With Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia?
• How Is Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia Staged And Classified?
• What Are Treatments For Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia?