Cindy’s Multiple Myeloma Blog

In response to the question regarding testing for Amyloidosis, I can only give my very uneducated and inexperienced response.  Right off I would say that it is not a necessary routine test when one has Myeloma.  What I have read of it, it can be a secondary complication of Myeloma.  I don’t know how common it is. 

Amyloidosis is an “umbrella term” that describes diseases caused by abnormal deposits in the body of the protein amyloid.  I got that from googling Amyloidosis from something called “Better Health Channel” fact sheet. 

I think I am being tested due to my current symptoms of numbness and loss of function.  I do not have all of the symptoms as a person with Amyloidosis in that I don’t have swelling in my tongue or real dizziness when suddenly getting up and maybe a few other symptoms.  I do have symptoms of muscular weakness, pins & needles and numbness in extremeties, etc. 

Since the doctors are still trying to figure this out, it was just one more test to eliminate.  As I’ve stated with me, I am being diagnosed by process of elimination of things.  I have been told that my situation is complicated.  I don’t doubt that. 

So, unless one is having severe numbness, tingling, loss of mobility in extremeties, I’d say don’t worry about this test. 

Of course, that is my humble opinion.

Oh ya, I was told it takes about 3-4 days to get the results.  I had the test last Wednesday, so I’m thinking the results should be in any day.  I imagine I’ll either hear from the doctor if it’s positive.  My next appointment with Dr. D. (oncologist) is next Tuesday anyway. 

Today is Day #4 since being home from the hospital.  I must say I do feel some increased strength.  I showered, in which I do every day, but it still is an accomplishment.  What I did that surprised me really was empty the trash and put wild bird feed out.  It surprised me that I not only attempted it, but I succeeded!

I also paid bills today.  I need to get more milk and mail a bill.  In the next few hours I will attempt this.  I’m no weaker than I was, really, just before I went on that vacation.  I should be able to do this.  The store is within 4 miles, country roads.  Piece of cake. 

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