Multiple myeloma: What does it mean?
Multiple myeloma refers to cancer of plasma cells, which are part of bone marrow. This is the second-most common form of blood cancer and affects approximately 30,000 Americans every year. Plasma cell cancer can lead to bone damage, kidney dysfunction and other potentially fatal complications.
Multiple myeloma is characterized by the accumulation of cancerous plasma cells in bone marrow, which can interfere with healthy blood cell production. These cancerous cells can crowd out healthy cells over time. This causes Anemia and frequent Infections . Multiple myeloma's exact cause is not known. However, certain factors can increase the risk of the condition, such as age and family history.
Multiple myeloma: Common causes
Multiple myeloma's exact cause is not known, however there are many risk factors that can increase the likelihood of getting it. They include:
- Multiple myeloma is more common in older people than those over 65.
- Multiple myeloma in the family - More likely to get it from someone with a history of multiple myeloma.
- Tobacco - There has been a link between smoking and multiple myeloma.
- Radiation exposure-People who are exposed to radiation at high doses run a greater risk of getting multiple myeloma.
There are common treatments for multiple myeloma
Multiple myeloma treatment typically includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy and/or immunotherapy. The stage and overall health of a patient will determine the type of treatment they receive. The following are common treatments for multiple myeloma:
- Multiple myeloma treatment: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells. This treatment is often combined with immunotherapy or radiation.
- Radiation Therapy - This treatment uses radiation beams of high energy to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy is used often to shrink cancerous tumors or reduce the pain caused by bone lesions.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses medication to increase the body's immune system in order to combat cancer. Sometimes, it is used with radiation or chemotherapy.
- Bone marrow donation - This procedure can replace bone marrow that has been damaged with healthy stem cells from a donor. In advanced cases of multiple myeloma, this procedure may be used.
Although the effectiveness of these treatments can vary from one patient to another, research shows that patients are most likely to see a reduction in symptoms after receiving appropriate treatment.
Considerations from professionals and experts
Multiple myeloma can be life-threatening and is recognized by professionals and experts. They also agree that proper management and treatment can help patients live long, fulfilling lives. A study in Blood showed that patients with multiple myeloma survived for five years at 82% and 10 years respectively.
Multiple myeloma management is best if it's detected early, experts agree. Early detection is key to successful treatment. Patients should be alert for signs and symptoms, and seek medical attention immediately if necessary.
Use natural remedies and tips
There are natural and lifestyle options that can help patients with multiple myeloma. These may be in addition to the conventional treatment. They include:
- Healthy, balanced eating - A healthy diet high in vegetables and fruits can boost your immune system, and help you to improve your overall health.
- Exercise regularly. Regular exercise is a great way to build bones and increase your overall fitness.
- Get enough sleep. Having enough sleep is important for the body's ability to recover and heal from treatment.
- Reduce stress - Stress can affect the immune system, making it more difficult for the body fight off disease. It is therefore important that you find relaxation and management strategies.
- Talk to a counsellor - A counselor or therapist is a good option for patients who are struggling to cope with chronic illnesses.
These lifestyle and natural treatments should not be considered a replacement for conventional treatment of multiple myeloma. However, they can help improve the patient's quality of life.
Conclusion
Multiple myeloma, a potentially fatal and life-threatening form of cancer in the plasma cells, can damage the bones and cause impairments to kidney function. Multiple myeloma's exact cause is not known, but there are some risk factors that may increase the likelihood of the condition. Multiple myeloma treatment typically includes chemotherapy, radiotherapy and/or immunotherapy. Research has demonstrated that patients with the right treatment can experience complete remission. There are natural treatments and lifestyle suggestions that can help patients live a better life.
Multiple myeloma can be a very serious disease. However, proper management and treatment will allow patients to live long, fulfilling lives. Patients should be aware of their symptoms and seek treatment if necessary. Talking to your doctor can help you find natural treatments and lifestyle suggestions that will assist with managing your condition.
Multiple myeloma can be life-threatening and is serious. Patients can still live long, fulfilling lives with proper management and treatment. Patients should be aware of symptoms and seek treatment if necessary. A patient may also benefit from lifestyle and natural treatments that can improve their quality of life.