Bone Metastases

A number of symptoms arise as a result of bone metastasis. It is important for patients to discuss any of these symptoms with their doctor. Detecting and treating this condition early can help reduce complications.  

• Bone pain
• Fractures
• Spinal cord compression
• High blood calcium levels
• Other symptoms

 

Bone Pain  

Pain is the most common symptom of bone metastasis and is usually the first symptom that patients notice. At first the pain may come and go. It tends to be worse at night or with bed rest. Eventually the pain may increase and become severe. Not all pain indicates metastasis. Your doctor can help you distinguish between pain from metastasis and aches and pains from other sources.

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Fractures 

Bone metastasis can weaken bones, putting them at risk for fractures. In some cases a fracture is the first sign of bone metastasis. The long bones of the arms and legs and the bones of the spine are the most common sites of fracture. A sudden pain in the middle of the back may indicate a cancerous bone breaking and collapsing.

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Spinal Cord Compression 

When cancer metastasizes to the spine, it can squeeze the spinal cord. The pressure on the spinal cord may not only cause pain, it may cause numbness or weakness in the legs, problems with the bowels or bladder (for example, trouble urinating), or numbness in the abdominal area.

You should notify your doctor or nurse immediately if you have any of these symptoms. If treatment is not begun early, serious injury to the spinal cord can occur.

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High Blood Calcium Levels 

High levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia) can occur when calcium is released from the bones. High calcium levels may cause any of the following: nausea, thirst, constipation, tiredness, confusion or reduction in one's appetite. If untreated, high calcium levels may cause a coma or abnormal heart rhythm.

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Other Symptoms 

If bone metastasis affects the bone marrow, other symptoms may be experienced depending on the type of blood cell affected. Red blood levels may drop, causing anemia that leads to symptoms of tiredness, weakness, and shortness of breath. If white blood cells are affected, the patient may develop infections that cause fevers, chills, fatigue, or pain. If the number of platelets drops, abnormal bleeding may occur.

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