Multiple myeloma (MM) is a kind of cancer that forms in the plasma cells, a type of white blood cell. Plasma cells allow one to fight against infections by producing antibodies that attack any foreign substance entering the body. Multiple myeloma happens when cancerous plasma cells outnumber healthy blood cells in the body. Keep reading to learn about the warning signs of multiple myeloma to remember for an early diagnosis and timely treatment. Causes When a person has cancer, plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and outnumber healthy blood cells. Instead of producing normal antibodies, these cancerous cells make abnormal proteins, which cause several health complications. In multiple myeloma cases, the body might or might not show symptoms. Since the disease often does not cause symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage, an early diagnosis is difficult. Sometimes, it gets accidentally detected during a routine blood test by showing an abnormal protein level. Signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma Some early warning signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma are listed below. Symptoms Nausea – When cancerous plasma cells cause bone damage, bones break down, and calcium enters the bloodstream. Excessive calcium levels can trigger nausea. Bone pain, mainly in the chest and spine, is a common symptom of MM, triggered by bone damage due to the myeloma cell growth in the bone marrow.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. It often develops on areas of the skin that are constantly exposed to the sun. Depending on the cells they affect, there are three major types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Each of these conditions may manifest differently. Knowing their warning signs can help one detect skin cancer early and manage it before it spreads. Warning signs of basal cell carcinoma This is the most common type of skin cancer. It forms in the basal cells of the skin, which lie at the bottom of the epidermis. It usually affects the sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the face and neck. Common signs and symptoms include a small pink or red bump that is shiny, pearly, or translucent and may have black, blue, or brown spots; flat, flesh-colored, yellow, or brown scar-like lesion; lesions that bleed spontaneously without being irritated or picked; bleeding or scabbing open sore that doesn’t heal or heals and returns; pink growth with raised edges and a deflated center that may feature atypical blood vessels; and raised and itchy red patches. Warning signs of squamous cell carcinoma This is the second most common type of skin cancer, affecting over one million people yearly.

Lymphoma is a form of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, a vital part of the immune system. It arises when either of the two types of lymphocytes (T cells or B cells) begin to multiply uncontrollably. There are two main categories of lymphoma: Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin. Identifying the type is crucial for devising a suitable treatment plan. The following are a few common warning signs of the condition. Swollen lymph nodes Lymph nodes are a critical part of the lymphatic system, located in various body parts, including the neck, groin, armpit, and spleen. They filter lymph fluid to eliminate harmful substances and fight off infections. Lymphoma leads to an abnormal multiplication of lymphocytes, which, in turn, causes one’s lymph nodes to enlarge and swell. As a result, one may notice swelling in the spleen, neck, armpits, or groin, which does not go away. The swelling is usually painless but can be painful in some cases. Itchy skin Persistent and unusual skin itching can also be a warning sign of lymphoma. One may experience itching all over the body or near affected lymph nodes. Persistent and unexplained itching in the hands, legs, or feet could point toward lymphoma. The itchiness results from the release of certain chemicals called cytokines.