@bigbob5461
Greetings and welcome to Mayo Connect.
I don’t know how recently you got the diagnosis, but I think it’s quite normal to be a bit preoccupied with your health. That’s very relatable.
I am three years out from my diagnosis and I found that as time went on, I felt OK and my numbers were stable, I felt reassured that what I read about the very low risk of progression might actually be accurate.
Almost everybody who is diagnosed with MGUS was diagnosed when they were looking for something else.
Which means for many there are no symptoms. Others can connect the dots between symptoms and MGUS . Bottom line is that MGUS is not cancer and the risk of progression to cancer is very low.
It’s hard to think in terms of “up side” but three years out, I have come to appreciate the excellent care I get as a result of this diagnosis. For the first two years I got blood analysis every three months and bone scans every six months. This last year my hem/onc doc and I had a discussion about going six months between blood draws. I have felt quite comfortable about it so we will stick with this plan. Some go annually. We are all different and there are many variables to consider, including age, general overall health, co-existing conditions and level of MGUS/health related anxiety.
Find the best hematologist/oncologist with the most experience treating multiple myeloma. Someone who will answer all your question and acknowledges you as a valued member of your own treatment team. If you have confidence in your provider, you will feel less anxiety.
Don’t be afraid to utilize mental health support. Therapy, your medical social worker attached to your treatment center (hope they have one) and the wonderful humans who post on Connect…whatever you need. Take care of yourself.
I’m very glad you found us. Do you mind sharing a little bit about when you were diagnosed and what your treatment plan will be?