• Published on: Sep 27, 2021
  • 10 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Multiple Myeloma Cause, Prevention, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment.

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What is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that causes the abnormal growth of plasma cells. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell, and they work to produce antibodies that fight infections. In multiple myeloma there is an overproduction of one antibody called M-protein. This leads to damage in the bone marrow, where red and white blood cells are made, as well as reducing normal immune protection from these cells going up against infections. Anemia (low levels iron) may also develop because once red blood cells die off at a high rate following exposure to M-protein their numbers will be depleted significantly which reduces hemoglobin synthesis - a vital process for transporting oxygen round our body and making our heart pump effectively.

Multiple myeloma is an incurable disease that damages plasma cells in the bone marrow. The immune system's B-cells create antibodies to combat infections, for which they are sponged up by rogue plasma cells when their work is completed. Plasma cell production causes myeloma risk by activating the stem cells found in the bone marrow so that erythropoietin is created in excess, leading to the overproduction of red blood cells, chronic nausea and vomiting, generalized weakness, easy bruising or bleeding from little cuts or IV lines etc. The rates of multiple myelomas have skyrocketed since 1990 because it has become less prevalent with good hygiene standards following World War II with people who lived through it dying off.

Multiple Myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells in the bone marrow. Multiple myeloma causes an increase in proteins produced by malignant white blood cells that are too large to be removed by normal filtering mechanisms in the kidneys, which leads to the accumulation of high levels of these proteins in your blood. As this process continues, your body becomes "immune"-proof to exchange transfusions, making all future attempts futile -- that's when you need to consider harvest therapy.

Multiple myeloma is a condition in which there are increases of plasma cells in the bone marrow. This causes an increase in waste products that accumulate within the cell, and with lots of free floating antibody proteins, it's like your body starts to fight against itself. There are two types of multiple myeloma (regular and monoclonal). Monoclonal plasma cells will often end up clumping together in different parts of the bone. Regular plasmacytic myeloma arises when free-floating plasma cells invade into the protective layer around nerves or between layers separating compartments (such as next to muscle compartments), then invades into neighboring compartments, not to mention other soft tissues such as gut lining.

Multiple myeloma is cancer in which malignant cells form in the body's bone marrow and gradually accumulate into large numbers in the blood and/or bone marrow. It is caused by excessive production of immature red blood cells (i.e. increased erythropoiesis) that are unable to carry oxygen, due to an abnormal hematopoietic cell or genetic mutation called Myeloma protein. The cancerous cells invade and old up normal healthy tissue often leading to blockage of tiny veins and arteries within the bones and cause pain (often referred to as BONE-PAIN). Multiple myeloma can also affect organ soft tissues including liver, heart, stomach, spleen etc., provoking many.

Multiple myeloma often progresses to an aggressive stage after many years, but it isn't classified as a cancer. It is classified as one of seven plasma cell dyscrasias. A plasma cell dyscrasia occurs when too many or too few plasma cells are produced to fight infections or make antibodies. As this disorder progresses, the excessive number of abnormal (myeloma) cells may decrease blood platelets and cause bone disease (osteolytic lesions), kidney problems, fatigue, pain, clots in the vein (thrombosis), high calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia), mounting production of urine that contains protein (proteinuria), and changes in liver.

The myeloma cells prevent the normal division of blood cell production. Myeloma cells are a type of cancer that stops any healthy division of blood cells. Myeloma cells also produce free radicals, which can damage other parts of the body's organ system and lead to a variety of health problems including heart disease, anemia and arthritis.

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the plasma cells in the bone marrow causing them to grow unchecked. This cancer can't be cured with chemotherapy, but it's reversible with radiation therapy. Other treatments are needed as well, but our goal is remission or reduction of symptoms so patients can go back to all their normal daily activities. Standard treatment consists of multiple myeloma (chemotherapy), high-dose chemo (given only one time every three weeks) called ONPU, and stem cell transplantation including intensive chemotherapy and radiation therapy to change the blood-producing cells in the body.

Multiple Myeloma is a cancer that starts in the bone marrow cells. The abnormal cells typically produce too many frighteningly mature white blood cells. And these excess white blood cells keep on developing into plasma cell cancers, producing an overabundance of abnormal protein, which then spreads to other parts of the body. The lack of healthy blood cells combined with the high levels of circulating antibodies can weaken your immune system and make you prone to infections or bleeding.

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow that eventually spreads into either the fluid around the lungs, abdomen and an space near to lymph nodes. Multiple myeloma generates blood products such as abnormal antibodies and increases your risk of infection, which increases your body's need for oxygen. Multiple myeloma can cause kidney failure or heart problems. You may have to take medications up to every hour to treat symptoms such as pain or nausea due to complications from treatment. Below are things that you should do if you suspect that you may have multiple myeloma: Keep a positive attitude- it might sound cliché, but it really does keep you going while going through life with multiple myeloma

Diabetes mellitus, chemotherapy treatments, long-term use of aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs, family history of the disease. Multiple myeloma is caused by a type of cancer involving malignant bone marrow plasma cells. These are abnormal white blood cells that can produce antibodies during an immune response to an infection or foreign substance in the body. But in multiple myeloma, these abnormal plasma cells proliferate without responding to any stimulus and they continue dividing unchecked while producing an excess number of proteins called monoclonal immunoglobulin K (IgK).  The leading causes of multiple myeloma are not entirely clear, but it seems to be an autoimmune disease caused by thyroglobulin-specific antibodies attaching to the cells in the bone marrow. It is also possible that infectious organisms may trigger conditions that lead to symptoms of multiple myeloma.

Multiple myeloma is not one specific disease but rather a group of diseases with similar symptoms, which can cause symptoms ranging from weight loss and generalized symptoms like fever or night sweats to painless swelling in the upper arm because the condition results in abnormal growths called "lymphoplasmacytic lymph nodes" or other symptoms like unexplained weakness or bruising. There are no effective treatments for multiple myeloma except surgery to remove

The leading cause of multiple myeloma is exposure to a substance called benzene through occupational exposure. Benzene is a high-volume chemical used in a range of industries, including the textile industry and rubber manufacturing. Benzene was found in many municipal water systems from its use as a solvent for gasoline. Occupational exposure can also come from air inhalation or absorption through the skin, but dietary exposure - which occurs by consuming benzene residues that have been absorbed into vegetation or other food sources - is not generally considered significant for adults because it's assumed to be at very low amounts and does not easily cross cell membranes.

The two main subtypes of multiple myeloma are based on the type of plasma cells that cause the tumor. The most common subtype is called "smoldering myeloma" and these tumors grow more slowly than others. Schchoid or plaque-sort multiple myelomas are less common, but they usually require a higher dose of chemotherapy to help control them because they tend to diffuse rapidly throughout the body and can quickly become life-threatening. Multiple myeloma is a form of cancer in which plasma cells continuously produce large amounts of abnormal proteins (called light chains) that collect as deposits in bones or other places inside the body, such as bone marrow, liver, kidneys or spleen.

The leading cause of multiple myeloma is a condition called "monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance" (MGUS). Another risk factor for myelomas involves age - as people live longer, they’re more likely to develop the tumor as well. This is because with aging, plasma cells in marrow become less able to detect and destroy malignant cells that may have developed there. Why this protective function becomes weaker over time is not known.

It's also been found that people who live near a nuclear facility or suffer from ionizing radiation are at higher risk for developing myeloma if they have MGUS.  The main leading causes of multiple myeloma are age, genetics or family history, and high blood calcium or high intake of dairy foods.

Recurring bouts of excessive production in the immune system can be caused by an infection in the past, by old age but there is also a genetic component. Other contributing factors to myeloma are certain viruses which seem to be associated with this kind of cancer - Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) for example. EBNA1 - the virus's genetic material appears in 20% to 95% percent cases of multiple myeloma worldwide.

While the exact cause of multiple myeloma is not yet defined, patients who have a history of MDS are more likely to get PMMM. Before the actual cancer occurs, there is an increase in plasma cells which leads to normal protein being filtered out too quickly by certain organs. This can lead to malignancy if this rate continues for long periods of time, meaning that the malignant cells cannot be destroyed fast enough by effete white cells. This buildup could also result from an autoimmune response where antibodies attack specific proteins within the body's major organs or tissues - basically attacking one's self may cause cancerous growths in different areas of your body.

Multiple myeloma is a cancer that affects the body's white blood cells, or "lymphocytes". It causes those cells to produce abnormal proteins called monoclonal gammopathies that cause inflammation and can damage organs. So, as far as causes go, there are three different pathways the cancer might take: Bcl-2 oncoproteins, mutated NMP (N-myc myopathy), and dysregulation of Ki-67. These do not need to be inherited; only one person in ten ever has an identified predisposition.

The most recognized risk factors for multiple myeloma can be classified into 5 categories, including

(1) family history of the disease

(2) environmental exposures like tobacco smoke and radiation

(3) immunologic susceptibility to myeloma proteins coded on tumor suppressor genes RET and CDKN2A which regulates control of cell division.

Information to include in the answer: The condition is a cancer of plasma cells in bone marrow, usually affecting only one side of the body. -Symptoms may include unusual tiredness, weakness or low red blood cell count.

  • Latest research supports that diet may play a role in diabetes or insulin resistance by causing inflammation that provokes an incurable cancer called Multiple Myelomas from mutations.

This is a difficult question to answer, but in general, increased exposure to radiation increases the likelihood of developing this disease. It depends on the type. Multi-myeloma can sometimes be cured if it is caught early enough. If it is not, the treatments are palliative to manage symptoms rather than cure or destroy cancer cells.

  • Following diagnosis, curing usually refers to complete removal of all myeloma cells from the blood and bone marrow; this will result in a temporary remission that usually lasts for over six months
  • Palliative therapy refers only to reducing symptoms during an established myeloma disease state
  • There is no way of distinguishing between cured and palliated cases at any point in timeUltimately, there is no certainty as to whether or not patients would be considered "cured." A trial comparing

It's not known if it is currently curable, but there are treatments that may be able to help.

Intravenous immunoglobulin can stop or slow the advancement of myeloma progression in some people for a limited time, but it doesn't cure the disease. Radiotherapy is often used to control bone marrow cancer cells and relieve pain, but does not reduce the amount of cancer cells in the body. It also has disadvantages such as causing peripheral neuropathy (irritated nerves), lymphedema (swelling of lymph vessels), and other side effects. And finally chemotherapy can sometimes be used to counteract any remaining cancer cells left after surgery or radiotherapy.

Multiple myeloma is a condition in which malignant cells form in the bone marrow. These cells make up 20% or more of the blood's plasma cells, which are responsible for white blood cell production. Multiple myeloma has the potential to be an incurable cancer because it often moves to other parts of the body before showing any symptoms, especially if it develops into "debulking" multiple myeloma where it collects in another part of your skeleton. Although clinicians can currently offer many treatments designed to slow down progression and suppress symptoms, no magic bullet cure exists that eliminates all signs of life at once. That being said, early diagnosis does promise many beneficial clinical interventions such as autologous stem.

Multiple myeloma is a cancer that begins in the plasma cells, a type of white blood cell, and can be treated with surgery if found early enough. It cannot be cured yet by any means but could possibly be cured with future treatments. Most people diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma have a good prognosis and live at least 5 years past the diagnosis date. However, many develop relapses as time goes on which decreases life expectancy from 10 years to 4 years after treatment starts."

In other words- it's not curable yet but there are ways to help prevent it from becoming worse as well as managing symptoms later on.

Multiple myeloma is a curable cancer as long as it's diagnosed early. Multiple myeloma can be treated with chemotherapy or radiation therapy and targeted therapies, which have been shown to have the ability to induce remissions that last for many years. In some cases remission will occur naturally after treatment with a single agent, but in most cases it is necessary to combine several treatments simultaneously. This aggressive combination of different treatments usually becomes necessary when less aggressive regimens fail or if the initial prognosis from imaging tests was unfavorable.

Multiple myeloma is not curable, but it is treatable. Cure means the complete elimination of all cancer cells from your body for a certain period of time afterwards. A treatment can cure you, but they have to go into remission first. Continuous treatment might be given in case that they come back or return faster than before if there's been multiple rounds of the same chemo drug therapy where a mutation occurred in a myeloma cell and they became resistant to therapy so most cancers cannot be cured so patients have to have chemo all their life for most people with myeloma multiples treatments last 2-4 years depending on if this person responds to treatment.

There is no cure for multiple myeloma, but with a very good treatment plan doctors have a high success rate of combating the cancer with remission or at least stable disease. Multiple myeloma progresses in stages from diagnosis to end-stage bone marrow failure. "Risk factor adjustments" can help predict which patients will develop end-stage bone marrow failure and those with relapse as time goes on. Most patients who enjoy long remissions or short remissions usually go into remission without needing therapy changes, but some need therapy changes if their blood cell count isn't considered healthy enough to be taken off from chemotherapy drugs after six months from diagnosis.

The treatments available to manage the symptoms of multiple myeloma are "temporary" in that they do not cure the disease, but rather help relieve it for some time period. With proper treatment methods, people with the condition can live 6 years or even more after diagnosis! Things get better when their blood test becomes free of cancer cells for 6 continuous months.

It's worth remembering that every single person is different  

I can't say that it is, but there are many treatments to help with the symptoms. Multiple myeloma is not curable. It's actually a cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow called monoclonal gammopathy which causes an overproduction of antibodies. Usually one type helps fight infection and another Type - these two types work together to attack germs or cancer cells or whatever else might be invading your system. But what starts out as good bacteria turns "bad" when it multiplies too rapidly and spreads throughout your body without regulation, attacking healthy things like your bones and immune system.

Multiple myeloma is not curable, but with proper treatment, patients can live for many years.

A patient's prognosis largely depends on where the tumor is located, whether or not it has spread to other organs or bones and how quickly the cancer cells are dividing. The average survival time for people who have multiple myeloma (an abnormal increase in white blood cells) is three to five years. Multiple myeloma is also known as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).  The malignant plasma cells generate antibody proteins called paraproteins that stick together into aggregates that block urine flow. 

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Switch Soda with Detox Water: A Simple Step Toward Better Metabolic Health

Switch Soda with Detox Water: A Simple Step Toward Better Metabolic Health

Soda and sugary beverages have become a major contributor to India’s rising burden of metabolic diseases. According to NFHS-5 and ICMR data, high intake of sugary drinks significantly increases the risk of obesity, high blood sugar, fatty liver disease and heart problems. Replacing these drinks with detox water is one of the easiest and most sustainable lifestyle changes for preventive health.

Detox water is not a medical treatment-it is a healthy hydration alternative that supports the body’s natural processes. SecondMedic encourages simple, evidence-based swaps like this to help individuals improve daily habits without drastic diets.

 

Why Soda Is a Major Health Concern in India

1. Extremely high sugar content

A single can of soda contains:

  • 8-10 teaspoons of sugar

  • Over 140 empty calories
     

This spikes glucose levels and increases insulin resistance.

2. Artificial additives

Flavours, colours and preservatives strain the liver and may worsen inflammation.

3. Link to chronic diseases

ICMR and Lancet studies show soda consumption increases risk of:

  • Type 2 diabetes

  • Hypertension

  • Weight gain

  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
     

4. Poor hydration

Soda does not hydrate the body. Caffeine and sugar can actually increase dehydration.

 

Benefits of Switching to Detox Water

Detox water provides hydration and additional wellness support through natural ingredients.

• Improved metabolism

Ingredients like lemon, ginger and cinnamon support metabolic balance.

• Better digestion

Mint and ginger soothe the digestive system.

• Stable blood sugar

Sugar-free detox blends prevent rapid glucose spikes.

• Enhanced hydration

Water absorption improves when infused with electrolytes and antioxidants.

• Reduced cravings

Replacing soda breaks dependence on sugar.

• Skin health improvement

Hydration + antioxidants help reduce dullness and inflammation.

 

Popular Detox Water Ingredients and Their Benefits

Lemon

Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helps improve digestion and immunity.

Mint

Reduces bloating and supports gut comfort.

Cucumber

Hydrates deeply and reduces water retention.

Cinnamon

Known for supporting stable blood sugar.

Ginger

Anti-inflammatory and excellent for digestion.

Apple slices

Add natural sweetness without added sugar.

Berries

High in antioxidants; good for heart health.

 

Easy Detox Water Recipes

1. Lemon + Ginger Detox

Supports metabolic health and digestion.

2. Cucumber + Mint Hydration Blend

Great for daily hydration and cooling.

3. Apple + Cinnamon Water

Helps stabilise glucose naturally.

4. Mixed Berry Infused Water

Boosts antioxidant levels for skin and heart health.

5. Turmeric + Lemon Detox

Mild anti-inflammatory properties.

 

How Detox Water Helps Reduce Soda Dependence

1. Replaces sweetness gradually

Natural fruit flavours reduce the urge for sugary beverages.

2. Keeps you full

Hydration decreases cravings, especially in the evening.

3. Offers variety

Different combinations keep the habit interesting.

4. Improves energy

Consistent hydration reduces fatigue and brain fog.

 

The Science Behind Hydration and Metabolic Health

According to WHO and NITI Aayog health reports:

  • Hydration improves nutrient transport

  • Helps maintain blood pressure

  • Aids liver detoxification

  • Supports kidney function
     

Soda disrupts these processes, while detox water supports them.

 

How SecondMedic Helps You Transition from Soda to Healthy Hydration

• AI Health Guide

Identifies sugar consumption patterns and suggests healthier beverage alternatives.

• Dietitian support

Provides personalised hydration plans for metabolic health.

• Preventive care tracking

Monitors progress for weight, energy and blood sugar.

• Health education

SecondMedic guides families, teenagers and adults on sustainable lifestyle swaps.

 

Tips to Make the Switch Successfully

1. Start gradually

Replace one soda per day with detox water.

2. Add natural flavour

Use citrus or herbs to enhance taste.

3. Keep it accessible

Carry a bottle to avoid impulse soda purchases.

4. Choose chilled detox water

Cold drinks create a similar refreshing experience.

5. Track your progress

Energy and digestion improve noticeably within 2-3 weeks.

 

Conclusion

Switching soda with detox water is a small step with big preventive health benefits. It reduces sugar intake, supports metabolic wellness, improves hydration and strengthens long-term health. With personalized recommendations from SecondMedic, this transition becomes easy, enjoyable and effective.

 

References

• ICMR - Sugar Consumption & Metabolic Health Report
• NFHS-5 - Obesity, Diet and Lifestyle Indicators
• NITI Aayog - Preventive Health & Hydration Behaviour Study
• WHO - Health Effects of Sugary Drinks
• Lancet - Soda Consumption & Disease Burden India
• Statista - Beverage Consumption Trends in India
• EY-FICCI - Lifestyle Behaviour & Preventive Health Report

See all

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