Corel Medical Series: Cancer/Corel Medical Series: Cancer.iso/mac/Program/c28.dxr/00055_Field_SRC.c28.C.19.txt

Text File | 1997-01-28 | 1KB | 17 lines

• Kidney Failure  Patients with acute kidney failure must be treated promptly with appropriate fluids and
  electrolytes . An artificial kidney (hemodialysis) may be necessary. In some cases, removing large amounts of
  plasma from the blood (plasmapheresis) may be helpful in acute kidney failure.

• Hyperviscosity  This condition of "thick blood" is characterized by bleeding from the nose or gums, blurred
  vision, dizziness, shortness of breath or mental confusion. It can be treated effectively with plasmapheresis .

• Muscle Weakness  People with multiple myeloma may develop weakness or paralysis of their legs and have
  difficulty urinating or controlling their bowels. If this happens, a myeloma tumor pressing on the spinal cord i
  is a possibility and can be diagnosed with a CT or MRI scan or myelography. The tumor can be treated
  effectively with radiation therapy .

• Emotional Support  Anyone with multiple myeloma needs substantial and continuing emotional support.
  The approach must be positive, emphasizing the potential benefits of therapy. It is reassuring to know that
  some patients survive for 10 years or more. It is vital that the physician caring for patients with multiple
  myeloma has the interest and capacity to deal with an incurable disease over a span of years with assurance,
  sympathy and resourcefulness and that patients can sense the doctor's confidence.