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Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinaemia symptoms vary from person to person. Here are some of the most common symptoms to look out for along with advice on how to manage them.
Along with your blood tests you healthcare team will also monitor your symptoms. You might want to keep a diary of your symptoms, even if they don’t appear on this list below. Your symptoms may determine if you need further tests.
Below are some of the most common symptoms, associated with Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinaemia. Everyone’s experience is unique, so you may experience one or two, a combination of symptoms or a completely different symptoms altogether.
Some symptoms may be directly related to WM while others may be as a result of WM-related conditions, so it’s important to let your doctor know.
Your blood is made up of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinaemia is a cancer of the white blood cells.
Healthy white blood cells help to fight infections. WM occurs when a certain type of white blood cell – called B-cells – develop incorrectly. These abnormal B-cells aren’t helpful to your body but continue to multiply, crowding out healthy cells.
Without enough healthy blood cells, your body can’t act like it normally would, causing symptoms like fatigue, repeated infections, bruising or bleeding easily.
In people with WM, abnormal B-cells produce large quantities of a protein called IgM. This build-up of abnormal excess IgM can cause other symptoms such as headaches, shortness of breath, dizziness and confusion.
Sometimes there may be other underlying health condition that are responsible for your symptoms and treatments themselves can have side effects which are similar to the symptoms of WM. This is why it’s important to discuss all your symptoms with your healthcare team.
You should mention all your symptoms, however mild, to your healthcare team. They’ll advise you on how to manage them. For example, fatigue may be caused by anaemia – a shortage of red blood cells – which can be managed with iron supplements or a blood transfusion.
You may be send for additional tests to determine whether your symptoms are related to WM or as a result of WM-related condition. Some treatments come with additional side effects, so you doctor will help you to assess the benefits.
If you’d like to speak to our Support Team about any aspect of WM, diagnosis, symptoms, treatment or ongoing support, get in touch with our Support Line.
Call us for FREE anytime Monday-Thursday 9-5pm to speak to someone right now.
Email support@wmuk.org.uk and we’ll get back to you within 48 hours.
