Contents
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Common Symptoms
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Blood-Related Symptoms
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Nerve and Organ Involvement
Spotting the Signs: Symptoms of Waldenström Macroglobulinemia You Should Know
Spotting the Signs: Symptoms of Waldenström Macroglobulinemia You Should Know
What's This About?
Recognizing the symptoms of WM is essential for early diagnosis and treatment. Here's what you need to watch for.
Contents
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Common Symptoms
-
Blood-Related Symptoms
-
Nerve and Organ Involvement
Common Symptoms
WM can cause fatigue, weight loss, and night sweats. These symptoms are often vague but should not be overlooked, especially in older adults.
Blood-Related Symptoms
Thickened blood due to high IgM levels can lead to symptoms like nosebleeds, blurry vision, and headaches. These occur because the blood struggles to flow smoothly through the vessels.
Nerve and Organ Involvement
Some people may experience numbness or tingling in the extremities, known as neuropathy. Organ enlargement, such as the liver or spleen, is also possible.
FAQs
What are the common symptoms of WM?
Common symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, and night sweats.
How does WM affect the blood?
It causes thickened blood, leading to nosebleeds and blurry vision.
Can WM affect nerves?
Yes, it can cause neuropathy, resulting in numbness and tingling.
Spotting the Signs
Early recognition of WM symptoms can lead to better management and treatment outcomes.
Additional References
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Kyle RA, Benson JT, Larson DR, et al. Progression in smoldering Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia: long-term results. Blood 2012; 119:4462.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.