The plasma cell is a type of white blood cell that fights against infections and disease-causing germs. Multiple myeloma, also known as Kahler’s disease, is a condition where plasma cells turn cancerous and multiply rapidly. Its symptoms can include nausea, loss of appetite, frequent infections, muscle weakness, constipation, confusion, and excess thirst. As the treatment for the condition requires a multi-pronged approach, read on to know how to manage multiple myeloma:

Treatment plans for multiple myeloma
Treatment plans for multiple myeloma are typically based on the growth rate of cancerous cells and other options, such as whether a patient can withstand the side effects of surgery. If the tumor is growing at a very slow rate, a physician might recommend only close supervision and mild treatment choices. The patient’s overall treatment plan can include a combination of multiple options.

The following are some types of targeted therapies and immunotherapies.

BCMA therapy
A form of targeted therapy, BCMA, stands for B-cell maturation antigen, a protein in the myeloma cells. BCMA therapy uses Blenrep to treat multiple myeloma in adults with recurrent or refractory cases who have received at least four previous treatments. Blenrep uses an antibody to bind to BCMA and deliver chemotherapy to the cancerous cell.

Monoclonal antibodies
This is another form of targeted therapy to deal with multiple myeloma. An antibody is a protein in our immune system that identifies and neutralizes foreign objects and pathogenic substances. Monoclonal antibodies (MAB) are lab-made antibodies that can attach to specific targets such as antigens on the surface of cancer cells. These antibodies can help in blocking cancer cell growth, destroying and removing them from the body. Some MABs flag cancerous cells so the immune system can easily identify and destroy them. Based on the prognosis of the disease, oncologists might recommend a combination of different forms of MAB that work in distinct ways to help the immune system fight against cancer cells.

Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy, also known as biologic therapy, is a mode of treatment that utilizes your immune system to fight cancer. It uses defenses that are naturally available in the body or lab-made defenses to fight against diseases. Immunotherapy helps identify the cancer cells that are not recognized by the immune system.
CAR T-cell therapy, a form of immunotherapy, is a treatment that improves the natural ability of T cells to fight cancer. T cells develop from the bone marrow and are a part of the immune system. In CAR T-cell therapy, the T cells are removed from the tumor and altered in the lab for increased efficiency against cancer. They are grown in large numbers and then put back into the body, mostly using a syringe.

Other modes include chemotherapy, immune system modulators, steroids, surgery, and radiation therapy.

Meal plans for individuals with multiple myeloma
Eating a balanced meal plan is important for dealing with multiple myeloma. The right foods can help reduce the intensity of the disease’s symptoms and the side effects of the treatment options.

Foods to have
Fruits and green veggies such as apples, cranberries, lentils, spinach, and beans are rich in essential nutrients and increase overall health.

A meal plan with fiber can boost your digestion and prevent issues with the digestive system due to treatment. Such foods include figs, oatmeal, whole grains, nuts, and cereals.

Cancer cells might lead to anemia, a condition where the body has fewer RBC levels than required. If you are diagnosed with anemia, try to include iron-rich foods such as red meat, sardines, chickpeas, beans, and spinach in your meal plans.

Foods rich in folate can help in the formation of healthy RBCs and WBCs. Black-eyed peas, broccoli, beef liver, asparagus, and Brussel sprouts are rich in this nutrient.

Sources of vitamin D and vitamin B12, such as eggs, dairy, fortified breakfast cereals, fortified yogurt, and nutritional yeast, should be added to your meal plans.

Foods to avoid
Since multiple myeloma can weaken your immune system, it is best to avoid foods that increase your chances of illness and infection. This list will include raw fish, raw meat, unpasteurized drinks, and runny eggs. These raw foods have a higher chance of containing disease-causing bacteria.

Foods rich in potassium and phosphorus should be avoided to protect the kidneys. This includes bananas, avocados, whole grain bread, citrus fruits, and tomatoes.

Lifestyle tips for dealing with multiple myeloma

Stay active
Regular activity can help reduce stress, cope with fatigue, and lead a healthy life. Try gentle exercises such as walking, stretching, and jogging to stay active. Managing your stress and getting enough sleep are also important for dealing with the symptoms.

Avoid infections
As plasma cells are affected in this condition, it can increase the risk of other infections. It is vital to wash your hands often, avoid touching the nose and eyes, stay away from crowds and people who are sick and cook foods at a temperature that is safe for eating.

The treatment options for a condition such as multiple myeloma can go beyond therapies and hospital visits. If you are experiencing worsening symptoms, do not hesitate to get help from healthcare professionals and a strong support team.