Hello and thank you for your patience as I am new to this site unsure of how to start so here goes:
My husband was diagnosed with high risk multiple myeloma (p-53 positive) in September and started DVRD, Danatumumab (weekly injection), Bortezomib (weekly injection), Lenalidomide (Revlimid) pills 2 weeks on one week off, Detamethosne (weekly pill), on October 18. No one tells us about side effects, only catastrophic ones, We are getting treatment #4 (of 16) today. The only side effect we have seen is fatigue. Are we to expect more? When?
My 2nd problem is eating, drinking and protein. struggling with getting these in him. Doesn't like protein shakes (I have added fruit, instant breakfast, protein powder, flavorings, protein bars are too dry. Any suggestions!
This whole problem started March 10 when Dale had surgery to remove a mass that was wrapped around spine. Fusions, rods & pins were used. He continues to have stomach tightness, back tightness and numbness in legs and feet. Will this improve or do I need to go to different chat room to discuss this?
Thank you very much for your help and any feedback that you can provide.
@itlooksunny Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect! You're doing just fine, we understand your dilemma.
Everyone seems to respond differently to a protocol of medications. Yes, fatigue is a big factor. Our body is fighting this new opponent of myeloma, and that takes a lot of energy! For me, I try to keep as normal a routine as possible. While there are days I cannot accomplish everything on that list, it spurs me forward to try.
As for diet. If your husband does not need to consider any co-morbidities and dietary concerns, here are some ideas. Eat what appeals to you. If water is not appealing, try adding some flavoring. I use True Lemon, True Lime, or True Orange as an additive to give my water just a bit of taste. In the morning, my go-to is a glass of crushed ice with water, and usually one of these packets. I am always looking for ways to increase my protein intake, as dialysis is hard on a person to keep up protein levels. Hummus with celery or carrot sticks, or chips is a good source. Peanut butter on crackers. My homemade protein shake has bananas or blueberries, greek yogurt, almond milk, and plant-based protein powder. You don't need a huge shake, about 10 ounces, to get a good "meal" in with lots of protein! Lean chicken in all forms, likewise fish.
You may find some information about the spine issues and aftereffects in the spine health group https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/spine-health/
We're here for you! any other questions come to mind? How are you doing handling all this?
Ginger