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.

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer affecting women in our country. It occurs when the cells in the breast mutate and grow uncontrollably. The common signs include a lump in the breast and changes in the appearance of the breast. Thankfully, there are several treatment options for the condition, and it is curable if detected early. Listed below are the treatments, nutrition tips, and lifestyle changes to treat and manage breast cancer: Treatment options Treatment is the first step when dealing with any cancer. Two options for breast cancer include: AFINITOR Doctors recommend this option to treat specific types of cancers, including breast cancer. AFINITOR works by killing cancer cells in the body and preventing them from spreading. It is especially beneficial for postmenopausal women who have not responded to specific other treatments. Diarrhea, decreased appetite, vomiting, and nausea are some of its typical side effects. CAR T-cell therapy In this treatment, T cells (a type of white blood cell) are drawn from the patient’s blood. They are then genetically modified with a receptor known as CAR and infused back into the patient. The new cells modified through CAR T-cell therapy are more capable of destroying cancer cells. Foods to eat and avoid While certain foods complement the treatment and help one recover, others can aggravate the condition. First, we have mentioned the foods that are beneficial for breast cancer: Foods with healthy fats C ancer treatment can affect the person’s overall health and energy. So, one must add healthy fats to the meal plan to boost energy levels. Some foods rich in healthy fats are chia seeds, avocados, and olive oil. High-protein foods Protein is excellent for building muscle mass and strength. Therefore, food items with a high content of protein are recommended. The best options include lentils, chicken, eggs, and fish like tuna and trout.

Lymphoma is cancer that starts in the infection-fighting cells of the immune system, known as lymphocytes. These cells change and abnormally grow, spreading to the bone marrow, lungs, and liver. Some of the most common symptoms of lymphoma are pain and swelling in the lymph nodes of the armpit or neck and high levels of fatigue. Here are a few treatment options, food plans, and simple tips for managing this health condition: Treatment for lymphoma The two main types of lymphoma are Hodgkin’s lymphoma This cancer affects the body’s lymphatic system, which is part of the germ-fighting immune system. This form of lymphoma is aggressive and may quickly spread in the body. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma begins in the lymphatic system, causing the lymphocytes to grow abnormally and create tumors throughout the body. Under these mentioned categories, there are 70 types of lymphoma. The treatment options depend on the overall health of a person, type of lymphoma, person’s age, and the stage at which cancer prevails. Doctors will stage a tumor to indicate how far the cancerous cells may have spread. At stage one, the tumor is limited to a few lymph nodes. At stage four, cancer would have spread to other organs such as the bone marrow or lungs. The doctor may diagnose the condition with tests such as biopsy, chest X-ray, MRI, PET scan, molecular tests, and blood tests. Imbruvica This treatment option is used for adults with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) who have received one prior treatment. Imbruvica works differently from chemotherapy and is to be taken as advised by the healthcare expert. One should not eat grapefruit, Seville oranges, or drink grapefruit juice when taking Imbruvica. Ibrutinib Ibrutinib is a kinase inhibitor that may kill cancer cells or stop them from increasing or growing by blocking the protein called kinase that allows lymphoma cells to live and grow.

Nasal congestion, also known as a stuffy nose, occurs when the blood vessels and mucus membranes in the nasal passageways swell up and get inflamed or irritated. It can result from several factors, but the most common reasons are allergies and the common cold and flu. The symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, and loss of taste or smell. Here are some treatment options, meal plans, and tips for managing nasal congestion: Treatment options A doctor or ENT physician diagnoses nasal congestion after analyzing its symptoms. They may also perform a physical examination, checking the nose, ears, and throat to determine the cause. Then, a suitable treatment is recommended. Allegra® Allegra® is an FDA-approved antihistamine that helps treat seasonal allergies. It relieves symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, and throat irritation. In addition, it helps treat non-respiratory symptoms like skin itching. Allegra® is typically recommended for adults and children 12 years and older. The treatment can have side effects like drowsiness, diarrhea, and nausea. Besides traditional treatments, healthcare experts recommend nasal saline products to reduce nasal dryness. Using a humidifier may also be beneficial, especially during the colder months. Further, a bulb suction device helps suck out excess mucus from the nasal passages of babies and young children, providing relief. Foods to eat and avoid for nasal congestion Some foods make preventing and managing the symptoms of nasal congestion pretty easy. Individuals can include the following options in their meal plan to treat the condition: Chili peppers Spicy foods like chili peppers have natural elements that open the nasal passages and thin out the mucus, allowing it to drain. Better drainage helps individuals breathe better, providing relief. Best examples of chili peppers to add to the meal plan are bell peppers, cayenne peppers, and jalapeno peppers. Chicken soup Studies indicate that chicken soup helps clear nasal congestion and ease cold symptoms.

For around 70% of all dementia cases, the root cause is Alzheimer’s disease . This neurological disorder severely affects thinking, memory, organizing skills, and eventually, one’s ability to carry out even the simplest daily tasks. Although there is no cure for reversing or stopping the symptoms, a few key measures for treatment and prevention may help in addressing this condition. The tips discussed herein can help with effectively managing Alzheimer’s disease in people : Tips for patients For those at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, one might find the tips listed below quite useful: Stay occupied Keeping the brain engaged by reading a book, learning something online, or taking a class will help to boost thinking capabilities. Such activities are crucially necessary to take care of one’s mental health. And if one has symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other similar concerns, consulting a health care expert can assist in regulating these mental illnesses. Exercise regularly A link between physical activity and the reduced risk of cognitive decline has been found through various studies. This link proves how essential it is to exercise every day. Physical activity can boost the heart rate and promote blood flow to the body and the brain. Avoid head injuries Brain injury may increase the risk of cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease , and subsequently, dementia. One can try to avoid brain injuries by following simple preventive measures such as wearing a helmet, fastening a seat belt, and taking caution when riding a bike, driving a car, and playing contact sports. Follow balanced meal plans Eating a healthy, balanced and nutritious meal helps provide proper nutrition to the body and the brain. Try having a meal plan low in fats and rich in vegetables and fruits to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fresh juices.

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death for both men and women in the country, with approximately 659,000 people succumbing to it every year. Sedentary lifestyles, poor stress management, and bad eating habits are putting individuals increasingly at risk of this condition. However, it is never too late to begin taking care of yourself. Here is a list of foods excellent for keeping a heart healthy: 10 foods that will help maintain a healthy heart Fatty fish Oily fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, and trout are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial fats. Triglycerides, a type of unhealthy fat in our bodies, have been proven to be reduced by omega-3 fatty acids. The nutrients may also help decrease plaque formation in the arteries and reduce overall inflammation. Three ounces of salmon contains approximately 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). If these fish do not appeal to you, consider white fish such as halibut or trout. Greek yogurt Yogurt contains probiotics, which are living microorganisms that play a crucial role in intestinal health. They help keep the heart healthy by reducing inflammation and maintaining healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Yogurt also contains a lot of calcium and potassium. Choose low-fat versions such as Greek yogurt to maximize calcium and minimize fat intake. Over time, cholesterol and triglycerides can harden or clog your arteries, resulting in heart disease or atherosclerosis. Greek yogurt may help you avoid or decrease the course of heart disease by lowering your cholesterol. Oatmeal Oatmeal has a lot of soluble fiber that can help lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol levels in your system. It functions as a sponge in the digestive tract, soaking up cholesterol and allowing it to be removed from the body rather than absorbed into the bloodstream.

Arthritis causes pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the tissues of the joints and includes conditions such as gout, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. The food one has on a daily basis plays an important role in the frequency and severity of inflammation. Being strict about one’s daily meal plan by including and avoiding some foods may help in managing arthritis. Here are a few foods and beverages that are quite bad for this condition: High-fat dairy Dairy on this list may surprise many as it contains useful nutrients such as calcium and proteins. However, it also consists of casein, which promotes inflammation. Limiting dairy products or avoiding full-fat dairy products with added sugar is good when one has arthritis. One must also note that some dairy products, such as yogurt, consist of probiotics that would help reduce inflammation and help relieve other arthritis symptoms. Processed and red meat These foods have a direct link with the inflammation that causes arthritis. Red meat has more saturated fats than white meat and plant-based proteins. Substituting red meat with legumes, chicken, and fish can reduce inflammation in the body, which subsequently alleviates other symptoms of this condition. Gluten-rich food Gluten is a protein found in barley, wheat, and rye. There is an association between rheumatoid arthritis and celiac disease, an autoimmune disease wherein gluten triggers inflammation in the gut and elsewhere in the body. Having a gluten-free meal plan may help reduce inflammation and hence be beneficial to rheumatoid arthritis patients. Sugary snacks and beverages One should limit their sugar intake, especially when they have arthritis. Added sugars are found in sodas, candies, sweet tea, fruit juices, and ice cream. A survey conducted on 217 people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has cited that among 20 foods, desserts and sugar-sweetened sodas have worsened the symptoms of RA.

Bone loss occurs when health conditions cause the bones to become weak and brittle. When the bones are weak, they lose their density. To keep them healthy, calcium, phosphate, and minerals are required. The human body reabsorbs old bones and produces new ones, restoring the entire bone structure every 8 to 10 years. However, the progression slows down when you get old. Here are a few health conditions that can slow down bone growth: Health conditions that cause bone loss: Osteoporosis This is a condition in which the bones, especially in the wrist, hip, and spine, become weak. It is recommended that a doctor check bone density as one ages to detect and treat osteoporosis. Although it cannot be completely healed, it can be controlled by managing one’s food intake and appropriate treatment. People with this condition should walk carefully to avoid a fall, as any fracture would take a prolonged time to heal. In addition, various treatment options and regular supplements would be needed. In severe cases of this condition, a few surgical procedures are available that could be helpful. Physical therapy is also of great help. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and lupus Studies reveal that approximately 3 million adults in the country have rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. They are both autoimmune diseases where the body attacks its healthy cells and causes inflammation. Any chronic disease that involves inflammation puts one at a significant threat of osteoporosis, as it increases the speed of bone turnover, where the old bone is restored with a healthy new bone. People suffering from RA and lupus are most often prescribed steroids for a long period to manage the symptoms; this increases the chance of osteoporosis as it slows the functioning of the bone-building cells. Asthma Although asthma, as a health condition, does not directly cause bone loss, the risk of developing it increases due to the treatments used.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints and causes immense pain, inflammation, stiffness, and mobility challenges. This type of arthritis can also cause deformities in other body parts, such as the hands, fingers, knees, feet, and toes. In severe cases, rheumatoid arthritis, if not appropriately managed, could lead to immobility. Let us look at the seven things to avoid to help alleviate the signs of RA: Lack of physical activity When you suffer from joint pains, tiredness, and mobility issues due to stiffness in the body, you must avoid resting for long hours. Daily exercise is the key to keeping yourself fit and healthy. Too much rest can worsen the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as fatigue, pain, and stiffness in joints. You can switch to low-impact exercises such as Tai Chi, yoga, or walking when symptoms become severe. Speak to your rheumatologist or therapist regarding exercises that best suit your condition. Walking for thirty minutes is ideal. Swimming too is a great choice. Sugar and refined flour Sugary snacks and soft drinks, bread made out of white flour, pasta, and white rice, among others, can spike your sugar levels which, in turn, could lead to the production of chemicals known as cytokines. This causes inflammation, which can aggravate the RA symptoms. Such foods can also increase the body mass index, further stressing the joints. Hence, avoiding these and opting for healthier alternatives such as whole-grain items like barley, oats, quinoa, and brown rice can be beneficial. Packaged foods Ready meals and foods that require minimum cooking are packed with ingredients that cause inflammation. These packaged foods are loaded with sugar, white flour, and unhealthy fats. They also contain artificial flavors, dyes, and preservatives which can trigger or worsen RA symptoms. It is suggested to read the nutrition facts on the label and the ingredient list on packaged food to make the right choice and prevent the onset of any RA triggers.

When abnormal white blood cells multiply extensively in the bone marrow, the condition results in leukemia. It adversely affects the ability of the body to fight infections. It is the most common type of blood cancer that affects about forty-five thousand people yearly. Common symptoms of leukemia are bruising and frequent nosebleeds, and infections. Here are some of the treatment options, healthy meal plans, and natural ways to manage this blood disease: Treatment options There are four primary types of leukemia: Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML) Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) The treatment depends on the type of leukemia, the severity of the condition, age, and the overall health of the affected person. Results from regular blood work will help to determine if a patient has acute or chronic leukemia. Further testing would then be required. The tests and diagnostic exams may include a physical exam, complete blood count (CBC), blood cell examination, bone marrow biopsy, lumbar puncture (spinal tap) and imaging, and other tests. A few of the treatment options are: Blincyto It is an immunotherapy option that helps to fight ALL, a type of leukemia where a specific type of white blood cell replicates out of control. It works with the immune system and destroys cancer cells. It is distinct and different from chemotherapy. The FDA granted or accelerated approval for using blinatumomab (Blincyto, Amgen Inc.) in 2018. If patients are allergic to blinatumomab or any of the ingredients of Blincyto, avoid its use as it can cause severe and, in some cases, life-threatening side effects. Tasigna Tasigna is an oral treatment option for treating Ph + CML (Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myelogenous leukemia) in adult patients. It is prescribed for at least three years, and one must go for regular and routine blood tests within the time frame.