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Multiple Myeloma – Unusual Signs and Management

Multiple Myeloma – Unusual Signs and Management

Multiple myeloma is a rare cancer that attacks the plasma cells in the bone marrow. Myeloma occurs when one of the plasma cells starts malfunctioning or begins to divide uncontrollably. The initial symptoms of the disease can go unnoticed till cancer spreads to other parts of the body. Hence recognizing the uncommon signs will help identify the condition at an early stage. Read on to learn about the nutritional regime and lifestyle changes to follow.

5 unusual symptoms of multiple myeloma
When the plasma cells become cancerous, they grow uncontrollably within the bone marrow, crowding out healthy blood cells like red blood cells and platelets. Some patients who receive treatment could show little to no change and reoccurring symptoms. When cancer does not respond to treatment or recurs, this condition is known as relapsed refractory multiple myeloma. One can also face other unusual symptoms like:

Rib pain
If the tumor is near or compressing the spinal cord, some may also feel a shooting pain that starts in the rib and passes through the leg. 

Repeated fractures
Myeloma damages the bones, making them weak and thin. It also causes lytic bone lesions leading to the loss of pockets of bone. Hence, repeated fractures are a symptom of multiple myeloma.

Unusual and excessive bleeding
Multiple myeloma can interfere with platelet production, which is crucial for blood clotting. With reduced platelets, one can face frequent bruising and bleeds. Frequent nosebleeds, bleeding in the gums, and heavy menstrual bleeding could be signs of multiple myeloma.

Hyperviscosity
Myeloma cells produce abnormal proteins and abnormal immunoglobulin molecules, which cause the blood to thicken. This condition is called hyperviscosity. Because it is thick, blood may not be able to reach the brain tissues easily. It may interfere with the process of communication between brain cells. This can lead to confusion in some.

Severe constipation
The degeneration of bones causes the accumulation of calcium in the blood, and the kidney now has to work harder to flush out the excess calcium, which requires a lot of water. With less water in the body, one may find it hard to push out stools leading to constipation.

Foods that can improve multiple myeloma symptoms
A balanced meal plan with adequate fluid intake is crucial for multiple myeloma to fight fatigue, increase energy, and cope with the effects of treatment. The meal plan should be rich in proteins, minerals, and important nutrients to help manage the symptoms and prevent them from worsening. It should also be kidney-friendly, promote new cell growth, help bone health, and fight anemia. Food ideal for multiple myeloma are:

Protein-rich food
Protein-rich food helps to replace old cells and the cells damaged by multiple myeloma. It also helps build one’s immune system. It is best to include lean protein in regular meals. Protein-rich food recommended for multiple myeloma include:
Fish
Chicken and turkey
Eggs
Yogurt
Beans
Nuts and nut butter
Soy-based foods
Tofu

Fruits, vegetables, and greens
Fruits, vegetables, and greens are superfoods for vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can help improve symptoms like constipation, increase nutritional levels, prevent oxidative stress, and fight infections. Always cook the fruits and vegetables well before eating. Some fruits and vegetables that are best suited for multiple myeloma include:
Papaya
Pineapple
Guava
Pumpkin
Green pepper
Brussel sprouts
Spinach
Broccoli

Fiber-rich foods
Constipation is one of the symptoms of multiple myeloma. Fiber-rich food can help fight constipation and empty the bowels. Fiber-rich food includes:
Apples
Pears
Whole grains
Beans
Legumes
Lentils
Celery
Artichokes

Iron-rich food
The cancer cells that build in the bone marrow may overthrow the healthy blood cells. This may lead to anemia. Iron-rich food can improve blood cells and fight anemia, fatigue, and weakness. Some iron-rich food sources include:
Clams
Liver
Lean meat
Sardines
Leafy green vegetables
Chickpeas
Dates
Green peas

Folate
Folate can help increase the production of red and white blood cells in the bone marrow. It can compensate for the loss of blood cells caused by myeloma cells. Folate-rich food can help improve red blood cell count and build immunity. Important food sources of folate include:
Asparagus
Beef liver
Black-eyed beans
Kidney beans
Chickpeas
Fortified cereals
Green leafy vegetables

Foods to avoid and limit for multiple myeloma
There is no specific nutritional regime that doctors prescribe for multiple myeloma. The best strategy for planning a meal plan is to include foods that can help manage the symptoms and limit or avoid foods that can worsen the symptoms. Some foods that one should avoid for multiple myeloma include:

S ugary desserts
Though one does not have to give up sugar completely, avoiding sugar-laden foods is recommended as it has zero nutritional value and may contribute to worsening the symptoms. Avoid or limit foods and beverages like carbonated drinks, candy, donuts, and cakes with a lot of cream and frosting.

Raw or uncooked food
Frequent infections are a symptom of multiple myeloma. Uncooked or undercooked food can carry bacteria that can cause infections. Washing them well and cooking them reduces the risk of infection. Avoid the following raw food:
Raw or undercooked meat
Raw or undercooked eggs
Uncooked vegetables
Overcooked vegetables
Sushi
Raw or unpasteurized dairy products
Raw sprouts
Raw salad dressings

Processed foods
Processed foods have too many trans and unsaturated fats and contains many chemicals and preservatives that increase its shelf life. Avoid the following:
Non-dried deli meats
Highly processed foods
Packed and ready-to-eat food
Snacks

Potassium-rich food
Since multiple myeloma affects the kidneys, if one’s meal plan has too much potassium, they may not be able to work well enough to flush the excess potassium from the body. Avoid high-potassium foods like:
Avocado
Banana
Melons
Orange
Prunes
Raisins
Granola
Brown rice
Beans

Food with little potassium poses no danger and can be eaten in moderation. 

Phosphorus-rich food
Avoid phosphorus-rich food, as the kidneys may be unable to flush it out. This causes the build-up of phosphorus in the blood, which can further weaken the bones. Avoid the following foods:
Bran cereals
Oatmeal
Dark-colored colas

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