What happens in your body when you have Waldenström macroglobulinemia?
Signs and Symptoms of WM
Common Symptoms of Waldenström macroglobulinemia include:
- Fatigue (due to anemia)
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Easy bruising and bleeding
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Neuropathy (numbness or tingling in the hands and feet)
- Vision problems (caused by blood hyperviscosity)
- Enlarged spleen or liver
Related Link
Why Patients Should Speak Up About WM Symptoms and Side Effects
Causes and Risk Factors of WM
Risk factors that may increase your chance of developing WM include:
- Age: Most common in adults over 65
- Family history: Higher risk if relatives have WM or other B-cell disorders
- Genetic mutations: MYD88 and CXCR4 mutations are common in WM
- IgM monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (IgM MGUS): A condition in which higher-than-normal levels of the antibody IgM are present
Accessing the Best Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Care
Expert Tips
- Find a Specialist: Seek a hematologist-oncologist with experience in WM.
- Understand Your Diagnosis: Learn about your specific subtype and genetic mutations.
- Discuss Treatment Plans: Ask about chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or clinical trials.
- Assess Financial Support: Determine insurance coverage and available assistance programs.
- Engage with Support Systems: Talk with loved ones and join support groups for guidance.
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Why Should You See a Waldenström Macroglobulinemia (WM) Specialist?
Three Ways to Partner in Your Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Care
Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Access & Early Detection Programs
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