I thought I had a bad cold but it turned out to be cancer’ – mum’s warning signs

Ann Wraith, a 48-year-old mother from Glasgow, was diagnosed with myeloma in January 2026 after initially attributing her symptoms to a cold or perimenopause, according to the Daily Record. She experienced extreme tiredness, night sweats, disturbed sleep, and leg pain, which she described as “a bad cold that I couldn’t shake off.” Blood tests confirmed the diagnosis, leading to a stem cell transplant and three weeks of hospitalization, during which she was separated from her family.

Myeloma, a blood cancer affecting plasma cells in bone marrow, is treatable but not curable. Ann emphasized the importance of recognizing non-specific symptoms, such as ongoing pain, exhaustion, and unexplained bone issues, which can be mistaken for less severe conditions. “It can be easy to dismiss what your body is trying to tell you,” she said, urging individuals to seek medical attention if symptoms feel unusual.

What are the warning signs of myeloma?

Myeloma symptoms vary widely and may include persistent fatigue, night sweats, bone pain, and frequent infections. Ann highlighted that the absence of a single defining symptom complicates early diagnosis. “I had what I thought was a bad cold that I couldn’t shake off,” she said. The Cancer Charity spokesperson noted that earlier detection improves treatment outcomes, underscoring the need for public awareness.

Why is early diagnosis critical?

Myeloma’s non-specific symptoms often lead to delayed diagnosis, as seen in Ann’s case. The Beatson Cancer Charity reported that patients who seek care sooner may have better access to treatment options. However, the disease remains under-recognized, with many individuals, like Ann, unaware of its existence before diagnosis. “I had never heard of myeloma before,” she said.

What may happen next for Ann?

Ann is undergoing treatment with significant physical and mental side effects. While her condition is manageable, long-term challenges persist, including the psychological impact of living with a chronic illness. The charity’s support, which includes community and hospital-based resources, has been vital. “I don’t take ordinary moments for granted now,” she said. Future steps may involve adapting to life with myeloma, with ongoing medical care and emotional support likely to remain central.

Ann’s experience underscores the importance of heeding unusual symptoms and seeking timely medical evaluation. While her journey has been difficult, she aims to help others avoid similar delays in diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is myeloma? Myeloma is a type of blood cancer that originates in plasma cells within the bone marrow, according to the Beatson Cancer Charity.

How is myeloma diagnosed? Diagnosis typically involves blood tests and evaluation of symptoms such as fatigue, bone pain, and frequent infections, as reported by Ann Wraith.

Can myeloma be cured? Myeloma is currently treatable but not curable, with management focusing on extending life and improving quality of life, as stated by Ann and the charity.

What steps can individuals take to recognize potential myeloma symptoms early?