DISEASES AND CONDITIONS

Multiple Myeloma: Treatment Questions

March 21, 2017

Multiple Myeloma: Treatment Questions

Talking with healthcare providers about your cancer can be overwhelming. It can be hard to take in all of the information. It helps to be prepared. Make a list of questions and bring them to your appointments. Write the answers down in a notebook. Make sure you ask how the treatment might change your daily life, including your diet, and how you will feel after treatment. Ask how successful the treatment is expected to be, and what the risks and possible side effects are. You may also want to ask a friend or family member to go with you. He or she can take notes and write down the answers, and also ask questions you may not think of. You can also ask your healthcare provider if you can record the conversation.

Below are some questions to ask during your appointments. Not all of these might apply to your situation, but asking the questions that do apply can help you get a better idea of what to expect.

Deciding on a treatment

  • Do I need any more tests before we decide on treatment?

  • Does my myeloma need to be treated right away?

  • What are my treatment options? 

  • What treatment do you think is best for me? Why?

  • What are the goals of treatment?

  • What is the success rate of this treatment for my stage of cancer?

  • Should we consider a stem cell transplant?

  • What is the average life expectancy for someone with my stage of cancer getting treatment?

  • How much experience do you have treating multiple myeloma?

  • Should I get a second opinion? 

  • Are there any clinical trials I should look into?

Getting ready for treatment

  • How soon do I need to start treatment?

  • How long will each treatment take?

  • Where do I have to go for the treatment?

  • Who will give me the treatment?

  • Does someone need to go with me during treatments?

  • Can I take my other medicines during treatment?

  • How long will I be in treatment?

Coping during treatment

  • How will we know if treatment is working?

  • How will I feel during and after treatment?

  • Will I be able to do my normal activities and be around my family during treatment?

  • What side effects can I expect?

  • How long will side effects last?

  • Will there be side effects I need to call you about?

  • What can I do to ease the side effects?

  • Should I change my diet? Are there any foods I shouldn't eat?

  • Are there support groups nearby that I can join?

After treatment

  • How will I feel after treatment?

  • What type of follow-up will I need after treatment?

  • How will we know if treatment worked?

  • What are my options if the treatment doesn't work or the cancer comes back?

Making a decision

When you have answers from your healthcare provider, it’s time to think about your preferences. Think about what side effects you can and can’t tolerate. Talk about all of your concerns with your healthcare provider before making a decision about treatment.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Reviewed By:  

Alteri, Rick, MD,Gersten, Todd, MD