Multiple Myeloma Side Effects- PTSD?

I am a long-term survivor and cancer coach of a blood cancer called multiple myeloma. By writing about PTSD, a side effect of multiple myeloma (MM), I am not trying to compare myself to veterans of war. I’m guessing that my PTSD is very different than their PTSD.

When I read the study linked below my only intention was to write about a side effect that I have identified in myself that I think other MM survivors may experience as well.

When the study below talks about “enhanced brain response to slight changes to deviant tones or anxiety or agitation” I have several reactions. First of all, I recognize those emotions in me. I know that I didn’t jump at deviant tones, or experience anxiety or agitation until I had lived with an incurable blood cancer, underwent aggressive high-dose chemotherapy (autologous stem cell transplant) and lived “the new normal” that comes with living with the long-term and late stage side effects from high-dose chemo.

Further, the study below explains that the “declines in memory or concentration” that I attributed to chemobrain may be challenges that may be exacerbated by PTSD.

This is all to say that we MMers must be aware of probable changes to our brain funtions caused by either/or chemobrain or PTSD. Once we have identified these possible side effects our challange is to heal them. Or at least help these side effects as much as we can from affecting our day to day lives.

I take a number of supplements that are said to be brain-healthy. Or, depending on the study you read, supplemenets that reduce my risk of cognitive decline. After supplementation I am a believer in frequent, moderate exercise and brain games, again, also to enhance my brain health.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, let me say this loud and clear:

It is critical that you become an active participant in your care. Learn everything you can. 

I am alive today largely because I took the time to find out everything I could about Multiple Myeloma and sought out the full spectrum of evidence-based MM therapies both conventional (FDA approved) and non-conventional.

Are you a MM patient or survivor? Please scroll down the page, post a question or comment and I will reply to you ASAP.

For those who rely on web accessibility and would like a resource,  please read Obsessive–compulsive disorder

Thank you,

David Emerson

• MM Survivor
• MM Cancer Coach
• Director PeopleBeatingCancer