How to Spot the First Sign of Multiple Myeloma: A Guide for Early Detection

Multiple myeloma can be subtle in its early stages, often hiding behind vague symptoms that are easy to overlook. This form of blood cancer starts in plasma cells an important part of your immune system and can slowly begin to affect your bones, kidneys, and immune response before more obvious signs appear. The aim of this guide is to help you understand the first warning signs of multiple myeloma, how it’s diagnosed, and what early detection can mean for treatment success and long-term health.

By learning what to watch for and when to seek help, you can take proactive steps toward early detection, effective care, and peace of mind.

What is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple Myeloma is a type of blood cancer that starts in the plasma cells, white blood cells found in your bone marrow. Normally, plasma cells help your body fight infections by producing antibodies. But in multiple myeloma, these cells become abnormal and multiply uncontrollably, crowding out healthy blood cells and producing proteins that can damage your bones, kidneys, and immune system.

This condition typically develops slowly and may not cause symptoms in the early stages. Over time, it can lead to bone pain, fatigue, frequent infections, and kidney problems. While it's a serious disease, early detection and treatment can help manage symptoms, slow progression, and improve quality of life.

What are the Multiple Myeloma Symptoms and Prognosis?

• Bone Pain: Especially in the back, hips, or ribs. This is one of the most common symptoms.

• Fatigue and Weakness: Caused by anemia (low red blood cell count) as cancer cells crowd out healthy blood cells in the bone marrow.

• Frequent Infections: Due to a weak immune system, makes it harder to fight off illness.

• Unexplained Weight Loss: Alongside general weakness and poor appetite.

• Excessive Thirst and Confusion: Signs of high calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia), a result of bone breakdown.

• Kidney Problems: Detected through blood tests or symptoms like swelling in the legs or reduced urination.

Cancer Reducing Foods to Include in Your Nutrition Cancer Diet

Diet to be followed:

• Broccoli, Cauliflower & Brussels Sprouts
  These cruciferous vegetables contain sulforaphane, a compound that helps eliminate cancer-causing substances from the body.

• Berries
  Packed with antioxidants and vitamins that help protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.

• Leafy Greens
  High in fibre, folate, and antioxidants that support immune health and fight abnormal cell growth.

• Whole Grains
  Rich in fibre and nutrients that support digestion and reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

• Legumes
  Provide plant-based protein and fibre, promoting healthy hormone levels and a balanced gut.

• Green Tea
  Loaded with catechins, especially EGCG, known for their cancer-fighting and anti-inflammatory properties.

What are the common tests for cancer diagnosis?

Common tests for diagnosis are:

1. Blood Tests:

1. Used to detect tumour markers or abnormal levels of substances linked to certain cancers (e.g., PSA for prostate cancer, CA-125 for ovarian cancer).

2. Imaging Tests:

1. X-rays, CT scans, MRI, PET scans, and Ultrasound help visualise tumours, their size, and whether cancer has spread.

3. Biopsy:

1. The gold standard for diagnosis. A sample tissue is taken and examined under a microscope to detect cancer cells.

4. Endoscopy:

1. A small flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the body to look for tumours in areas like the digestive or respiratory tract.

5. Mammogram:

1. A special X-ray is used primarily to screen and diagnose breast cancer.

Treatments and Preventions of Multiple Myeloma

Treatments:

1. Chemotherapy

1. Traditional Medications are used to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells, often combined with other treatments.

2. Targeted Therapy

1. This treatment focuses on specific proteins in myeloma cells. One of the most effective Medication is Bortezomib, which blocks the growth of cancer cells and is commonly prescribed in the form of Borviz 2.5 mg tablets.

3. Immunotherapy

1. Helps your immune system find and destroy myeloma cells. Medicines like daratumumab and elotuzumab are commonly used.

4. Stem Cell Transplant (Bone Marrow Transplant)

1. Replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy cells, usually after high-dose chemotherapy.

5. Radiation Therapy

1. Used to shrink tumours and relieve pain in specific bone areas affected by myeloma.

Preventions:

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent Multiple Myeloma, certain lifestyle choices can help lower your overall cancer risk. Maintaining a healthy and  balanced diet  like rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support your immune system and general well-being. Doing physical activities regularly, like walking or exercising moderately, helps you stay at a healthy weight. It also strengthens your immune system, which defends your body against illnesses. Avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals or industrial toxins, especially in workplaces, may also reduce your risk. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol can further protect your health. And also staying on top of regular health check-ups and addressing any unusual symptoms early like bone pain or frequent infections can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes.

Key Takeaways

Multiple Myeloma is a type of blood cancer which affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. Early symptoms can include bone pain, fatigue, frequent infections, and kidney problems. While it isn’t curable, it is treatable with options like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted Medications, and stem cell transplants. A healthy lifestyle, regular checkups, and managing risk factors may help with early detection and better outcomes. Staying informed and working closely with your healthcare provider is key to managing the disease effectively and improving quality of life over time.