Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer affecting the plasma cells in the bone marrow, which form an essential part of the immune system. While there is no cure for the disorder, many treatments help control and manage the symptoms so patients can maintain their quality of life. Read on to learn about a few early signs of multiple myeloma that can help diagnose the condition and seek appropriate treatment. Multiple myeloma – Signs to look out for Multiple myeloma is difficult to diagnose in the early stages. It is usually identified much later because patients do not show signs initially. Some may report vague symptoms that appear to have been caused by other conditions. Still, it is crucial to know the signs that could indicate a possibility of multiple myeloma. Those who experience the following should visit a doctor as soon as possible and undergo the necessary tests to rule out the condition: Bone pain One of the most common signs of multiple myeloma is bone pain. Those with this disorder may notice pain in the back, ribs, and hips. It can be consistent and dull and worsen with movement. The pain is usually a result of the multiplication of cancerous plasma cells in the bone marrow.

Exercising is an essential part of staying healthy. Regular movement allows us to strengthen the muscles, improve balance, regulate sleep cycles, and maintain the overall health of the mind and body. But, making time to go to the gym or taking a workout class is not always a feasible option for everyone. But, no need to fret. Here are seven easy-to-do exercises that will keep you fit and can be done every day at your convenient time. Squats Squats are one of the simplest and most productive exercises you can do anywhere. All you need to do is stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. You then engage your core and bend the knees while drawing your hips back. Keep going until your thighs are parallel to the floor, and return to the starting position. You can repeat this exercise or hold it for a period of time. Planks Planks help to strengthen the core and stabilize the abdominal muscles. It is super easy to do. Start by planting your hands and toes on the floor. Keep your back straight and your abdominal muscles tight. Hold this position and ensure that your gaze lies in front of your hands. Keep your chin tucked, and do not look at your feet.

When one suffers from multiple myeloma, this blood cancer forms in their healthy plasma cells. These white blood cells can produce antibodies that identify bacteria and fight them, helping prevent illness. In this disorder, the bone marrow produces too many cancerous plasma cells, which replace normal blood cells. In addition, an abnormal protein produced by these cancer cells can lead to complications. Here are early signs of multiple myeloma that one should know. Early signs of multiple myeloma While this condition may not cause symptoms in the early stages, it can lead to various severities. It is usually discovered during a routine blood test or, in some cases, a urine test. Some of the early signs of multiple myeloma include the following: Bone pain This condition can directly affect bone density and lead to pain in the back, ribs, and hip bones. Usually, people experience it as a dull, aching pain that gets worse with movement. Weak bone strength can also result in fractures of the spine and long bones like the arms and legs. It can also compress the spinal cord, causing numbness in the legs. Anemia Anemia interferes with blood cell production in the bone marrow, resulting in the body’s lack of red blood cells.

Aging brings its own set of health concerns. For women, menopause is one of them and cannot be avoided. A natural process of the body, menopause commonly occurs in women aged 40 years or older. It also brings along a slew of symptoms like night sweats, hot flashes, headaches, cognitive decline, and depression. Therefore, it is important to be armed with knowledge, resources, and tools for the proper management of this condition. Broccoli Cruciferous vegetables are considered beneficial for women approaching the age of menopause. Broccoli is often top of that list. It has been linked to decreased risk of breast cancer which is a trigger for menopause. Its high antioxidant content protects the body against oxidative damage and a possible cancer scare. Broccoli also reduces the amount of inflammation in the body. Edamame Satiating, healthy, and nutritious, edamame is a great choice for any meal. It is also regarded as a healthier alternative to soy. It packs a lot of phytoestrogens that help the body cope with its depleting levels of estrogen. Oatmeal Oats are rich in fiber and can prevent constipation on regular use. They may also help improve digestion, and lower blood glucose levels, and cholesterol levels in the body.

Menopause is a natural event in a woman’s life as their menstrual cycles come to an end. The phenomenon leads to a reduction in the estrogen hormone, which may affect one’s metabolism. The changes may also lead to declining bone density, hot flashes, and irregular sleep patterns. The symptoms of menopause may sometimes last for years. Therefore, women must follow a proper meal plan to cope and manage during the transition. Salmon Fatty fish like salmon are known for their heart-healthy properties called omega-3 fatty acids. These acids can improve an individual’s mood and brain function. The properties can also keep blood pressure levels in check and regulate symptoms like hot flashes. Broccoli Vegetables like broccoli are beneficial for the human body in several ways, including managing the symptoms of menopause. Broccoli contains calcium, which is known to build bone strength. It can also improve estrogen levels responsible for curbing the risk of breast cancer. Eggs Eggs are flush with vitamin D and iron, essential for women going through menopause. The food also contains healthy proteins known to reduce cholesterol levels and curb the risk of heart disease. Oatmeal Adding whole grains such as oatmeal to a meal plan can boost the fiber levels in one’s body.

Several conditions can cause poor circulation in the body, including stress, diabetes, and peripheral artery disease. Poor circulation may also result from low blood count, wherein the body fails to produce the necessary red blood cells (RBCs) in a day. Furthermore, a low blood count can lead to symptoms like numbness, digestive problems, and cramps. So, here are a few healthy foods that help increase blood count and improve circulation. Foods to increase blood count Eating healthy results in several health benefits. Here are some foods that can help raise the red blood cell count in the body: Cherries Cherries are rich in vitamin C, which compliments iron absorption by the body. Eating cherries can result in an increase in red blood cells in the body. Egg yolk Yolks contain folic acid, which is essential as it helps maintain hemoglobin levels in the body. Red meat Red meat, like beef, lamb, and pork, promotes healthy blood levels. These foods contain iron that is easily absorbed by the blood. The process helps improve hemoglobin levels, which improves the production of red blood cells. Dairy products Moderately having cheese and milk benefits the heart and regulates blood levels. Milk alternatives like soy and almond milk also help improve blood count.

With flu season just around the corner, there are many precautions one can take to ensure one remains healthy and fit throughout. While the best course of action is to distance oneself from people who are sick, get vaccinated against the flu, and get adequate sleep (6-8 hours) every night, a very important part of staying healthy is to check one’s daily food habits. Six foods that can help boost immunity are: Citrus fruits Citrus fruits such as grapefruit, oranges, clementines, tangerines, lemons, and limes are rich in vitamin C, which is thought to improve the production of white blood cells (WBCs). These WBCs are imperative to fighting infections in the body. However, the body does not produce or store Vitamin C, so a daily intake is required to maintain healthy levels of it in the body. Red bell peppers Citrus fruits are not the only source of vitamin C. An ounce of red bell peppers contains almost three times as much vitamin C (127 mg), as compared to a Florida orange (45 mg). Bell peppers are also rich in beta-carotene, which converts into Vitamin A in the body, and is essential for maintaining skin and eye health. Broccoli Broccoli is rich in vitamins and minerals.

A strong immune system is an essential part of leading a healthy life. A healthy immune system incorporates organs, tissues, proteins, and bodily processes that help fight infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and other foreign bodies. There are multiple ways to improve and maintain a strong immune system, one of which is to eat certain foods. Read on to learn more about foods that help in boosting one’s immune system. Yogurt Yogurt and other probiotic foods are essential to improving the body’s immune system. These foods help to improve the microbiome and bacteria that reside in the gut and the digestive tract. These bacteria play a crucial role in regulating the immune system. They also help ensure that the immune system only attacks infection and harmful bacteria and viruses but not healthy cells and tissue in the body. Besides yogurt, you can add other probiotic foods like kimchi and kombucha to your meals. Fatty fish Fatty and oily fish such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, and more contain loads of antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients. Omega-3 fatty acids are linked with lower risks of developing conditions such as heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and even eczema. It also helps with the prevention of certain autoimmune disorders and even cancer.

The skin can look tired, aged, and become acne-prone for various reasons, such as air pollutants and seasonal changes. But there may also be times when you experience breakouts out of the blue and for no mistake of your own. However, certain habits you can control might be influencing your skin more than you realize. These can worsen the skin’s overall health and also lead to conditions like eczema if you aren’t careful. 6 habits to avoid for better skin health Going out in the sun without SPF One of the golden rules of having healthy skin is to use sun protection. This includes sunscreens, hats, and sunglasses. Being disciplined about using sun protection ensures that your skin remains free of sun damage and does not show early signs of aging. It is also an effective way of reducing the risk of skin cancer. Using an unclean brush Regularly and repeatedly using unclean makeup brushes can be a definitive way of damaging your skin. You might not be aware of it, but your makeup tools can be a trove of bacterial growth that can harm your skin. For example, they could cause rashes, acne, and infections and might, in rare cases, lead to skin pigmentation.

Cancer is an umbrella term used to describe conditions caused due to the multiplication of abnormal cells in the body. This growth can start in one organ and then spread or invade the surrounding tissues and travel to other body parts. Some of the most common types include breast, cervix, colon, and mouth cancers. Here are some early warning signs of cancer to look out for. Changes in the menstrual cycle One of the typical early warning signs of cancer is changes in the menstrual cycle. Many individuals will experience irregular or changes in their menstrual cycles over time. But, if there is persistent pain in the pelvic region and sudden changes in the cycle, it is essential to check it out. This issue could be an early cervical, uterine, or ovarian cancer symptom. Coughing Coughing is mainly a symptom of a cold or a flu infection but is also typically seen as an early sign of certain types of cancer. If the cough is persistent even after two weeks, especially a dry cough, it could be a sign of lung cancer. Such a sign, accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, hoarseness, and shortness of breath, could indicate that it’s time to get checked by a healthcare professional.