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Overview
Myeloma affects bone marrow.
Anemia is common.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayBleeding, severe pain, or trouble breathing or swallowing.
See a doctor soonMake an appointment soon; don't wait.
Causes
Causes include myeloma and other conditions.
OwieClear has pages on 2 conditions that can cause bone pain with tiredness, high calcium, or kidney problems in an older adult. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Multiple myeloma (needs checking)See a doctor if it doesn't get better
A blood cancer of plasma cells, mostly in older adults.
- Plasma cell leukemiaOften needs care today
A rare, aggressive form of plasma cell cancer where many cancer plasma cells circulate in the blood.
What you can do at home
- Keep all follow-up appointments.
- Write down your questions.
Medicines
Treatment depends on what tests find.
At the doctor
Tests will look for the cause.
Questions you may be asked
- How long
- Weight loss
- Smoking and family history
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Bone imaging
Prevention
Lower your risk.
- Don't smoke
- Get recommended screenings
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.