Persistent headaches and migraines, often dismissed as common ailments, could be a crucial early warning sign of myeloma, a serious blood cancer originating in the bone marrow. This revelation comes from leading UK haematologists who are urging both the public and medical professionals to be more vigilant.
Beyond the Ordinary Headache: Understanding the Myeloma Link
Myeloma causes the overproduction of abnormal plasma cells, which crowd out healthy blood cells in the bone marrow. A key mechanism linking it to headaches is the production of abnormal proteins by these cancerous cells. These proteins can thicken the blood, a condition known as hyperviscosity, which impairs blood flow to the brain and can trigger severe, persistent headaches.
Professor Karthik Ramasamy, a consultant haematologist, emphasises that while headaches are common, their nature in the context of myeloma is distinct. "It's the persistence and the change in character of the headache that should raise a red flag," he explains. "We're talking about headaches that are new, different, unrelenting, and don't respond to usual over-the-counter pain relief."
The Full Spectrum of Myeloma Symptoms: A Checklist
While headaches are a significant pointer, they rarely occur in isolation. The UK's Myeloma UK charity stresses the importance of recognising a constellation of symptoms, often remembered by the acronym C.R.A.B.:
- Calcium (elevated) - leading to extreme thirst, abdominal pain, and confusion.
- Renal (kidney) failure - causing fatigue, nausea, and swelling.
- Anaemia - resulting in persistent tiredness, paleness, and breathlessness.
- Bone pain - especially in the back, ribs, or hips, which may worsen at night.
Other critical symptoms to be aware of include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Frequent infections due to a weakened immune system
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Why Early Diagnosis is Critical in the UK
Early detection of myeloma dramatically improves treatment outcomes. However, diagnosis is often delayed because initial symptoms are vague and easily mistaken for more common conditions. Dr. Sophie Castell, Chief Executive of Myeloma UK, underscores the urgency: "We need to shorten the diagnostic pathway. Raising awareness of these symptoms, including persistent headaches, is a vital step towards ensuring people are diagnosed sooner and can access life-saving treatments faster."
If you or someone you know experiences a combination of these symptoms, particularly persistent headaches alongside bone pain or fatigue, it is essential to seek a prompt consultation with a GP. A simple blood test can often be the first step in identifying potential issues.
