What is Myeloma?

Myeloma also known as Multiple Myeloma or Myelomatosis is a rare form of cancer which affects the bone marrow and plasma cells. Plasma cells can be found in the bone marrow (the spongy centre of larger bones such as hips or skull).Usually plasma cells are produced to replace older cells in an orderly way but sometimes this process gets out of control and produces large amounts of abnormal cells (Myeloma Cells).

Symptoms of Myeloma

Myeloma does not always cause symptoms particularly in its early stages but some symptoms which may occur are listed below:

• Bone pain, this could be in any bone in the body but is more often in the lower back or ribs
• Fractures, following a minor injury or sometimes no injury
• Swollen Ankles
• Tiredness, shortness of breathe
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding such as bleeding gums

How Myeloma affects Travel Insurance

If you have been diagnosed as having Myeloma, Travel Insurance which includes cover for the condition should be an important part of planning a holiday. Travel Insurance not only covers the Myeloma itself but also any complications related to it, for example if you broke a bone whilst abroad or before traveling. If this was found to be related to the Myeloma and you haven’t taken out sufficient Travel Insurance you will probably not be covered and may be left with a Hospital bill or no cancellation cover.