Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer originating in a type of white blood cells known as plasma cells. Plasma cells help the body fight infections by making antibodies. However, when affected by multiple myeloma, they become abnormal and gather in the bone marrow, outnumbering healthy cells. The plasma cells now produce non-functional antibodies, so the body can no longer fight infections effectively, leading to several complications that affect healthy organs.
Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma may not be the same in every individual. The general indications of the disease include:
- Nausea
- Fatigue and confusion
- Bone pain, mainly in the spine or chest
- Constipation or upset stomach
- Loss of appetite
- Frequent infections
- Excessive thirst
- Numbness in the legs
- Unexplained fever
- Frequent bleeding
Causes
The exact cause of multiple myeloma is not yet known. While research has shown it occurs when the plasma cells become abnormal and multiply, scientists are still trying to understand what triggers this response. Some risk factors of the disorder include:
- Working in an area exposed to radiation
- Coming in contact with chemicals used in woodworking, rubber manufacturing, or firefighting
- Developing specific DNA mutations during one’s lifetime
- Being diagnosed with an inflammatory disease like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis
- Being over the age of 60
- Having a family history of the disease
It should be noted that males have higher chances of developing multiple myeloma than females. Regardless, individuals should look out for the symptoms and visit a healthcare provider on experiencing anything unusual.
Treatments and remedies
While this type of cancer cannot be cured, treatments can help manage the symptoms and increase the patient’s life expectancy. The healthcare provider may recommend a combination of the following:
- Chemotherapy to lower the number of abnormal plasma cells in the body.
- Immunotherapy to stimulate the immune system so that it produces more cancer-fighting cells.
- Radiation therapy to selectively kill cancer cells.
- Stem cell transplants to replace unhealthy stem cells with healthy ones.
Besides these therapies, doctors may recommend treatments to relieve symptoms like severe joint pain, reduce inflammation, and manage infections. Further, doctors may recommend lifestyle changes and alternative remedies for multiple myeloma, such as acupuncture, acupressure treatment, therapeutic massages, meditation, and exercise.
Foods to eat
While no specific food can treat multiple myeloma, a healthy nutrition plan will improve immune function, reduce the side effects of treatments, and prevent complications. Some foods that help with multiple myeloma are:
- Foods rich in iron, vitamin B-12, and folate (help manage anemia, a common symptom)
- Meats like liver and beef
- Eggs, fish, and poultry
- Beans, chickpeas, and lentils
- Foods like apples, rosemary, basil, broccoli, spinach, and cranberries with anti-cancer properties
- Plant-based foods and foods low in sugar
Multiple myeloma is a rare cancer but can be treated if detected early. It can be confirmed with blood tests, urine tests, imaging tests, and an examination of bone marrow. Once diagnosed with the disease, individuals should get in touch with a doctor and take the necessary steps for treatment.
