What is Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer that develops in the plasma cells found in the soft, spongy tissue at the center of your bones, called bone marrow. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell responsible for producing antibodies (immunoglobulins) which are critical for maintaining the body’s immune system. Through a complex, multi-step process, healthy plasma cells transform into malignant myeloma cells.
Myeloma cells result in the production of abnormal antibodies, or M proteins. The M proteins offer no benefit to the body, and as the amount of M protein increases, it crowds out normally functioning immunoglobulins.
In addition, groups of myeloma cells cause other cells in the bone marrow to remove the solid part of the bone and cause osteolytic lesions, or soft spots in the bone, resulting in weakened bones and increasing the risk of fractures.
Signs and symptoms of Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma symptoms may vary by patient, with the early stages of myeloma often presenting no visible symptoms or signs. When present, the symptoms of multiple myeloma include:
- Bone pain or bone fractures
- Fatigue
- Increased vulnerability to infections
- Increased or decreased urination
- Restlessness – eventually followed by extreme weakness and fatigue
- Confusion
- Increased thirst
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Impaired kidney function
Traditional treatment options for Multiple Myeloma
There are various treatment options for Multiple Myeloma depending on the stage of the cancer but may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, biological therapies and stem cell transplant.
Utopia Wellness’ Intensive Medical Program for Multiple Myeloma
Multiple Myeloma is a very stressful diagnosis and your Utopia Wellness team understands this. We work with you to design a customized holistic plan to ensure you have the most effective alternative treatments for your specific cancer.
