Home | health | 3 Effective Ways To Manage Multiple Myeloma

3 effective ways to manage multiple myeloma

3 effective ways to manage multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the plasma cells in the bone marrow. Here, cancerous cells begin accumulating in the bone marrow and outnumber the healthy cells. This leads to huge amounts of unwanted proteins rather than helpful antibodies. About 34,000 adults in the country are estimated to be affected by this condition in 2022. However, the disease can be managed through the following treatment options, foods, and lifestyle changes:

Treatment options
Multiple myeloma does not have a permanent cure, but the disease and its symptoms can be managed with the right treatment. Doctors may recommend immunotherapy to treat this blood-related condition.

Immunotherapy
This is a treatment method that empowers the patient’s immune system to fight cancerous cells. It is a biological therapy where certain substances derived from living beings are used for the treatment. Here are a few options:

CAR T-cell therapy: This is a form of immunotherapy prescribed for multiple myeloma patients. This works on the T-cells (a white blood cell type), stimulating them to fight cancerous growth. The therapy involves drawing blood from the patient and adding chimeric antigen receptors (or CARs) to the blood, helping the T-cells target certain cancerous cell antigens. The CAR T-cells are then infused into the blood of the patient. Doctors can recommend BCMA-targeted immunotherapy for patients to enter remission. The B-cell maturation antigen or BCMA helps regulate the growth and survival of B cells, and it is heavily present in myeloma cells. Targeting BCMA to kill cancer cells can slow the progression of the disease. BCMA-targeted treatment is a form of CAR T-cell therapy.
Monoclonal antibodies: These are synthetic or man-made antibodies that attack the proteins on the myeloma cell surface. The antibodies attach to the CD38 protein on the myeloma cells, killing them and strengthening the immune system to attack the cancerous cells. Some monoclonal antibodies can target BCMA and are associated with chemotherapy.

Food choices
Here are a few foods that can help with symptom management:

Foods with ursolic acid: Apples, basil, rosemary, and cranberries are rich sources of ursolic Acid (or UA) which is a triterpene compound naturally found in many fruits and veggies. Due to UA’s anti-oxidizing, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and apoptotic properties, it can help suppress factor-kappa B signals in cancerous growths and thus inhibit cancer cells. Additionally, apples also are fibrous in nature which helps prevent constipation and promotes clear bowel movement in patients.
Cruciferous vegetables: Cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower contain isothiocyanates— a compound that exhibits anti-cancer properties. To top it, broccoli has high fiber content that keeps the body free from constipation, one of the common side-effects of various treatments for the disease.
Iron-rich foods: Beans, chickpeas, lentils, and nuts are rich sources of iron, an essential mineral to help fight against blood-related diseases. Due to the cancerous buildup in the bone marrow, there could be a reduced number of red blood cells or RBCs in the blood brought on by the deficiency of iron.
Blueberries: This fruit is a rich source of pterostilbene that exhibits antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties. This helps fight malignant cell growth and helps normal cells function better.
Turmeric: This spice contains curcumin which is known for its antioxidant properties. It has been researched for cancer treatment, and studies suggest that it can slow the growth of malignant cells and protect healthy cells from damage during certain treatment procedures.
Foods rich in folate: Black-eyed peas, broccoli, and lentils contain folate or folic acid that helps slow down the spread of cancer as it helps repair cells.
Vitamin C sources: Bell peppers, oranges, berries, and lemon juice contain vitamin C, which helps in the faster absorption of iron. Besides, this essential vitamin activates the immune system to produce healthy cells.
Foods with vitamin B12: Dairy products, soy milk, almond milk, and flax milk contain good amounts of vitamin B12. This nutrient supports the growth of healthy blood cells and prevents megaloblastic anemia.
Sources of vitamin D: Studies show that higher levels of this essential vitamin can help reduce the spread of cancer and lower the chances of metastasis. Oranges, yogurt, and milk contain vitamin D.

Additionally, people affected by the condition may need to avoid eating foods that can induce nausea and vomiting. So, patients should limit their intake of raw, unwashed foods like raw meat, raw eggs, and sushi.

Lifestyle changes
Other than the treatment and food, people with multiple myeloma need to make changes to their lifestyle so that the side-effects of treatment do not have a severe impact and the immune system stays strong. Common lifestyle changes include:

Regular exercise: This helps boost the immune system, energy levels, fitness levels, and emotional outlook.
Fall management: The disease can increase the risk of falling. Patients should use supportive devices like canes, keep their home well-lit, get rid of furniture or hurdles that increase the risk of falling, and install handrails.
Fatigue management: Patients should seek help to carry out household chores like cooking and cleaning to avoid feeling exhausted. It is important to get ample rest and sleep.

Additionally, one should reduce the risk of infections and practice good hygiene, avoid crowded places, use disinfectants, and stay vaccinated as recommended by the doctor.

While the disease is not as common as other blood-related cancers, it can be managed with the help of doctors and a proper treatment plan.

Popular Articles

Top Categories

Recent Articles

7 mistakes to avoid while browsing the internet

7 mistakes to avoid while browsing the internet

home & needs
Most of us use the internet for hours daily. So doesn’t it make sense to ensure we’re doing things correctly if we invest much money and time in it? Whether you are a seasoned computer expert or a beginner, certain mistakes are inevitable. Given the recent rise in online fraud and crime, it is necessary to exercise caution. Keep reading to learn about internet mistakes that could ruin your web browsing experience. Accepting every cookie request Cookies, in essence, are documents that websites create on your computer when you visit them. These files are not hazardous by nature and store data that must be accessible from one session to the next, including login information. They can, however, be misused to track your online activity. Although one might be aware of what cookies are, one might not fully comprehend their significance. It is best to enable first-party cookies, set by the website you visit, and disable third-party cookies placed by other domains. Clicking on pop-up ads with misleading information One might know that pop-ups are counterfeit, but not many know they can be dangerous too. It’s easy to accidentally click inside the ad and be directed to a spyware site or, worse, have malware automatically downloaded onto your computer.
6 Foods to Eat to Manage Psoriatic Arthritis

6 Foods to Eat to Manage Psoriatic Arthritis

health
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that develops in some people with psoriasis, a chronic skin condition. It occurs when a person’s immune system starts to attack the body’s cells, leading to inflammation in joints and the overproduction of skin cells. It affects close to 1-3 percent of the world’s population. It is non-curable, and few treatment options aim to manage the symptoms. Read along to learn about its symptoms, triggers, and more. What are the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis? Many signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis are similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis. The manifestations of this disease also may vary from person to person. Some of the common indicators of the condition include: Scaly and inflamed skin, especially on the knees, scalp, and elbows. Pain, swelling, and stiffness in one or more back, hips, or neck joints. Lack of energy or tiredness. Tenderness in the soles and heels Swelling of a whole toe. Dents or pits in the nails. Inflammation of the eye and blurry vision accompanied by redness or pain. What triggers psoriatic arthritis? The cause of psoriatic arthritis is an immune system disorder, where your immune system acts against your body. Both genetic and environmental factors seem to influence this response.
Uncontrolled Asthma – Causes, and Worst Cities to Live In

Uncontrolled Asthma – Causes, and Worst Cities to Live In

health
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes swelling and inflammation of the airways. It is estimated that more than 339 million people worldwide suffer from this disease. It affects people of all age groups, and genders. However, it is more common in adult women than in men. Asthma has no specific underlying cause, but various allergens like pollen, dust, mold and even perfume can trigger asthma. Read on to learn more about the condition. What is uncontrolled asthma? Uncontrolled asthma is when affected individuals have persistent symptoms that interfere with daily life, even when they are on regular medication. It is estimated that over 60% of adults who are asthmatic suffer from uncontrolled asthma. Causes of uncontrolled asthma Stress People may experience asthma attacks due to excessive stress and strong unpleasant emotions like unhappiness or crying. One must try to reduce one’s anxiety and stress. Underlying health condition Some respiratory health conditions like sleep apnea that block the upper airway while sleeping can lead to an asthma flare-up. Environmental allergies could also worsen asthma attacks. Weather change Moving from drier to humid air or warmer to colder air might cause asthma attacks. This condition can be brought on by minor weather changes or leaving a controlled environment.
Lupus – Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Diagnosis

Lupus – Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Diagnosis

health
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), commonly known as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune condition. Here, the body’s immune system, which is supposed to fight infections, begins attacking healthy tissues and organs. This causes pain and inflammation. One may also experience symptoms like skin sensitivity, joint pains, rashes, and issues with internal organs like the kidneys, heart, and lungs. The condition does not have a cure, however, treatment options can help one manage its symptoms. Symptoms Here are a few symptoms one should recognize: Fatigue Most people with lupus experience fatigue, which can worsen with muscle and joint pain. Many may experience stiffness and swelling in the neck, thigh, and arms. While getting adequate sleep can relieve general exhaustion, when fatigue is accompanied by some sort of pain and discomfort, one should consult a doctor. Skin rashes The most common and prominent symptom of this disease is a butterfly-shaped rash on both cheeks and the nose bridge. Around 30% of people affected by lupus experience this symptom. The rash may appear suddenly before a flare-up or right after excessive sun exposure. For some, the condition also causes hives and non-itchy lesions all over the body. Some may notice discoloration in their toes or fingers.
Foods to Avoid to Manage Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Foods to Avoid to Manage Eosinophilic Esophagitis

health
Eosinophilic Esophagitis, or EoE, is a chronic digestive disease of the esophagus caused by an allergic condition. It is characterized by chest pain, heartburn, and solid food dysphagia. If this disorder is left untreated, it can cause esophageal remodeling and stricture formation. This disorder is also marked by eosinophilic inflammation and impacts the quality of life of the affected person. You can check out various reliable health websites to get information on eosinophilic esophagitis. A patient with EoE must be very careful with his health and meal plans, as research suggests that EoE is linked to food allergies. Therefore, the six most common food items that are responsible for such allergies include: Dairy Cow milk is said to be one of the most common reasons for EoE. Milk protein can trigger too many eosinophils. You should avoid food items made up of milk, buttermilk, lactose, and other related dairy products. You can replace dairy products with coconut hemp, dairy-free yogurts, cashew ice cream, etc. Soy Soy-based food items include tofu, soy butter, soymilk, and miso. Soy cheese, soy nuts, soy milk, etc., should be avoided and can be substituted with refined soybean oil or coconut aminos. Wheat You might think wheat is only found in bread, cereal, or baked goods.
5 Common Digestive Issues and Their Symptoms

5 Common Digestive Issues and Their Symptoms

health
One of the most vital systems in our body is the digestive system. It is responsible for the digestion of food and the distribution of nutrients throughout the body to meet the bodily requirements for energy, development, and cell repair. Issues in the digestive can interfere with the body’s ability to get energy from food. While some gastrointestinal issues can go away with healthy eating habits, other concerns may require treatment. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) IBS is a functional bowel disorder. This means the cluster of varied symptoms categorized as IBS is brought on by changes in the normal functioning of the digestive system. The primary sign is abdominal pain, which can develop before or after a bowel movement, and is a reliable indicator of IBS. Additionally, one may experience both constipation and diarrhea. The form of IBS can be determined depending on whether a person has diarrhea or constipation more frequently or both equally. Other IBS signs and symptoms are incomplete bowel motions, white mucus in the stool, and bloating. Nutrition is important for managing the symptoms of IBS, which includes eating low-fat, high-fiber meals and avoiding common trigger foods when the cause of the condition is unknown. Food poisoning or gastrointestinal infection are common causes.

© 2024 ZealSearches.com. All Rights Reserved.