Myeloma patients may receive certain treatments that are intended to alleviate symptoms rather than cure the disease; this is known as supportive therapy. In patients with severe anemia, administering the blood cell growth factor erythropoietin may decrease the need for red blood cell transfusions. Antibiotic therapy is given to treat infections that occur, and researchers are investigating the use of antibiotics prophylactically to prevent recurrent infection.
Bisphosphonates can help make bones stronger. These drugs inhibit bone destruction and increase bone density, decreasing pain and the likelihood of fracture. They also prevent high levels of calcium in the blood. Pamidronate is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for this purpose.
Bone pain may also be alleviated with the help of radiation therapy, which also stabilizes areas that are likely to fracture. Exercise can also reduce the loss of calcium from the bones and make the skeleton stronger. Drinking plenty of fluids can help the kidneys excrete excess calcium from the blood and also prevents calcium from accumulating in the kidneys.
Patients can help prevent infections by eating a diet high in calories and protein and getting plenty of rest. When a patient experiences signs of infection, including a fever, sore throat, rash, tiredness or painful discharge of urine, he or she should notify a doctor immediately.
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