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Diagnosed with SMM, SPB, or MGUS?

Learn how you can stall the development of full-blown Multiple Myeloma with evidence-based nutritional and supplementation therapies.

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Pre-myeloma- Kidney Damage

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Because they do not meet conditions for smoldering multiple myeloma or MM, these patients are mistakenly diagnosed as MGUS (or pre-myeloma) 

While the studies linked below are confusing at best, it is clear to me that pre-myeloma patients can develop kidney damage as a symptom of this asymptomatic blood disorder.

The challenge for any patient diagnosed with MGUS or SMM (pre-myeloma) is that they are told to watch and wait and not to worry. So do you watch and wait or undergo therapies in hopes of improving your kidney function?

While a kidney cleanse or kidney detoxes are less than evidence-based therapies, they are all you can do if you want to improve your kidney function. Scroll all the way down the page to learn more about kidney cleansing.

If you have been diagnosed with MGUS, SMM or MM and your creatinine or other kidney function tests are abnormal, please ask your oncologist to have an immunofluoresence study.


MGUS at a glance-

 

Read the posts linked below to learn more about kidney involvement in pre-myeloma

Consider pre-myeloma therapies such as:

  1. non-toxic, cytotoxic/apoptotic supplements,
  2. foods that starve MGUS/SMM and MM
  3. evidence-based mind-body therapies,
  4. detoxification therapies,
  5. Non-conventional bone health therapies

Have you been diagnosed with a stage of pre-myeloma? Do you have kidney involvement? Scroll down the page, post a question or comment and I will reply to you ASAP.

To Learn About Pre-Myeloma (SPB, MGUS, MGCS, SMM), diagnostics, symptoms and therapies- click now

Thank you,

David Emerson

  • MM Survivor
  • MM Cancer Coach
  • Director PeopleBeatingCancer

Recommended Reading:

Monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance: when MGUS is no longer undetermined or insignificant

“Indeed, a growing number of pathologic renal conditions are being attributed to a clonal plasma cell disorder that is less “myeloma-like” and more “MGUS-like” in terms of its bulk and proliferative rate.11,12 Unfortunately, the current diagnostic schema fails to properly categorize the hematologic disorder in these patients. Because they do not meet conditions for smoldering multiple myeloma or MM, these patients are mistakenly diagnosed as MGUS...

Unfortunately, MGUS in this context is misrepresented because in these patients there is significance to the monoclonal gammopathy, and its significance is not “undetermined.” Despite their nonmalignant nature, these diseases are associated with a great deal of morbidity and even mortality.10,12,16

MGUS should not be used to describe hematologic disorders that result in kidney disease. It is because of this necessity that we propose the term “monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance” (MGRS) to discriminate the pathologic nature of these diseases from the truly benign MGUS…

Although the MGUS-like biology sometimes makes the hematologic disease less lethal, the effect on the kidney regrettably is not as benign…

Kidney disease associated with plasma cell dyscrasias

“Plasma cell dyscrasias are frequently encountered malignancies often associated with kidney disease through the production of monoclonal immunoglobulin (Ig). Paraproteins can cause a remarkably diverse set of pathologic patterns in the kidney and recent progress has been made in explaining the molecular mechanisms of paraprotein-mediated kidney injury…”

Kidney Damage- Natural Detox Therapies

Non-conventional therapies aka kidney cleanses are less than evidence-based. Meaning, few, if any studies have been conducted into natural kidney cleansing.

I’ve said this in many of my blog posts on PeopleBeatingCancer. When we MM patients and survivors are faced with a health problem that is related to our MM, we may not be able to find a suitable or effective therapy provided by conventional oncology.

Remember that conventional oncology considers MM to be incurable. There are a host of multiple myeloma symptoms that conventional oncology just can’t fix. There are several MM symptoms and side effects that conventional oncology creates with chemotherapy and radiation.

Think chemobrain, heart damage, blood clots, cataracts and the list goes on…

If I was a newly diagnosed MM patient experiencing kidney damage and wanted to improve my kidney function/health, I would:

  • talk to my conventional MD
  • meet with a naturopath with an expertise in kidney health
  • and finally, consider the natural kidney cleansing therapies linked below-

The articles linked below are those articles, recipes, videos, etc. that I find to be credible and, though not “evidence-based,” may offer therapies for kidney patients to consider.

Recommended Reading:

Before You Try a Kidney Cleanse

“Kidneys also release three important hormones: erythropoietin (which stimulates the bone marrow to make red blood cells), renin (which regulates blood pressure), and calcitriol (the active form of vitamin D, which helps maintain calcium for bones and for normal chemical balance in the body)…

If you’re interested in taking natural approaches to enhance your kidney health, talk with your doctor and consider consulting a qualified health professional.

Kidney cleanses vary in approach. Here’s a look at some of the most common types of kidney cleanses:
  • Beet juice
  • Watermelon
  • Lemon juice
  • Cranberry juice
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Smoothies
  • Ginger
  • Turmeric
Vitamins-Some proponents recommend incorporating the following vitamins and minerals into a kidney cleanse:
  • Vitamin B2
  • Vitamin B6
  • Magnesium
In many cases, a kidney cleanse will integrate herbs, vitamins, and minerals into a whole-foods-based diet designed to flush out the kidneys.

Possible Concerns- While kidney-cleanse proponents suggest that they enhance the kidneys’ ability to remove waste from the body, their claim/s are not backed by scientific data. Like other supplements, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t require products marketed for kidney cleansing be proven safe and effective. While consumers face such risks when purchasing any dietary supplement, these risks may be of greater magnitude with supplements containing a variety of herbs in high doses.

Doing a Natural Kidney Cleanse at Home

“The kidneys are two small organs located on either side of the spine, below the ribs. They play an important role in getting rid of excess waste, balancing electrolytes, and creating hormones.

In the absence of disease, a well-rounded diet and adequate water intake are usually enough to keep your kidneys healthy.

However, certain foods, herbs, and supplements can help support strong kidneys.

From your morning glass of water to that extra cup of herbal tea, here are four ways to cleanse your kidneys and keep them functioning strong

  1. Hydration is key
  2. Choose foods that support kidney health
  3. Drink kidney-cleansing teas
  4. Supplement with supportive nutrients

YouTube Video Demonstrating Kidney Cleansing Drink

I found this video to be a bit silly but the cocktail/recipe seemed legit.

Leave a Comment:

29 comments
Myeloma Diet for Kidney Involvement - PeopleBeatingCancer says 9 months ago

[…] To learn more about kidney involvement in pre-myeloma stages- click now […]

Reply
MGUS- Kidney, Bone, Blood, Skin Damage - PeopleBeatingCancer says 9 months ago

[…] To learn more about kidney involvement in pre-myeloma stages- click now […]

Reply
MGUS- Kidney Health? - PeopleBeatingCancer says 9 months ago

[…] you will manage your pre-MM well for decades to come. Let me know if you have any questions.  To learn more about kidney involvement in pre-myeloma stages- click now   Hang in there,    David […]

Reply
william moskowitz says a couple of years ago

I use a product called “Kidney Stuff” that has helped to raise my eGFR

Reply
    David Emerson says a couple of years ago

    Interesting. Thanks Bill-

    David

    Reply
    Valentine says last year

    Please, where do you buy the kidney stuff and what’s the name

    Reply
      David Emerson says last year

      Hi Valentine-

      I replied to your question directly via your email address. If you don’t receive my email then check your spam folder.

      David Emerson

      Reply
Risk of Progression for Smoldering Multiple Myeloma is Reduced...at what cost? - PeopleBeatingCancer says a couple of years ago

[…] MGUS (pre-myeloma) and Kidney Damage […]

Reply
MGUS- Slurring, Vision, Thick Blood? - PeopleBeatingCancer says 3 years ago

[…] MGUS (pre-myeloma) and Kidney Damage […]

Reply
It's Either Smoldering Multiple Myeloma or Multiple Myeloma - PeopleBeatingCancer says 3 years ago

[…] MGUS (pre-myeloma) and Kidney Damage […]

Reply
Sheila Kinville says 4 years ago

The https://peoplebeatingcancer.org website is one of the best
we have found, and the MGUS (pre-myeloma) and Kidney Damage article is very
well written and useful!

Thanks and kisses! 🙂

Reply
Julie says 6 years ago

Hello David,

I just listened to your webinar and am really interested in preventing full blown multiple myeloma. I was diagnosed with MGUS two years ago and am being monitored by an oncologist. My “values” seem to either be improving or holding steady, however, I was also diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) around the same time. I suspect that I developed/acquired AIH a long time ago since my liver values have always been either slightly elevated or have exceeded 5> times the upper limit of normal. I have only experienced the latter a handful of times and each time the liver values decreased to almost normal but rarely are they normal. The treatment for AIH is brutal so I have opted not to seek treatment until it is absolutely necessary. My hepatologist monitors my liver values on a regular basis, and I get scanned twice a year. Interestingly, AIH symptoms often mimic MGUS symptoms.

Like I mentioned previously, I am very interested in being proactive and would like to explore the 8 comprehensive guides, however, I would like any information you might be willing to share regarding alternative treatments and how that factors in with a pesky liver. I am wondering if you have come across folks like me who are dealing with MGUS and a liver disease such as AIH. Oh, I am also being treated (meds) for hypothyroidism. I suspect that all three–MGUS, AIH, and thyroid issue–are interrelated. Any information is most greatly and graciously appreciated.

Reply
    David Emerson says 6 years ago

    Hi Julie-

    I am sorry to learn of your health challenges. While I am out of my depth when talking about both AIH and hypothyroidism, I tend to agree with you that your diagnoses. The prognosis and treatment for AIH sounds very much like the prognosis and treatment for MM.

    I have linked and excerpted a study below about milk thistle and liver function. While the conclusions of the study are vague I think you might learn something by reading the article.

    Again, I am doing only cursory study but it seems like many/most of your issues relate to each other-

    Hashimoto’s: The Liver and The Thyroid
    “Hashimoto’s can cause a host of problems all over the body, but one place in particular where we can see it’s influence is on the liver and gall bladder…”

    21Milk Thistle: Effects on Liver Disease and Cirrhosis and Clinical Adverse Effects: Summary
    “Clinical efficacy of milk thistle is not clearly established. Interpretation of the evidence is hampered by poor study methods and/or poor quality of reporting in publications. Problems in study design include heterogeneity in etiology and extent of liver disease, small sample sizes, and variation in formulation, dosing, and duration of milk thistle therapy. Possible benefit has been shown most frequently, but not consistently, for improvement in aminotransferases and liver function tests are overwhelmingly the most common outcome measure studied…”

    Let me know if you have any questions.

    David Emerson

    Reply
PEREZANGELA1978 says 6 years ago

Hi David,

I have been visiting your site for a while to get information from. Thank you for all the work you do, it is extremely valuable. I was diagnosed in January of 2017 with multiple myeloma at 38 years old. I have 3 beautiful children and a loving husband who I want to live as long as I can for. I am currently in a Stringent Complete Response to treatment and I am praying that I stay there for a long while. I had a stem cell transplant this past July 2017, and I returned to work in October. I was un-prepared for the amount of time I had to take off all thru 2017 for treatment. We ended up in debt in order to keep our household going. I’m hoping you are considering giving away as a Christmas present one of your booklets on evidence based therapies. Please add my name to the list that goes into the hat. I would love to purchase your information but right now our belt is so tight as we pay off the bills we incurred during the time I was unable to work. I’m not one to ask for stuff, but after not being able to walk on my leg for 3 months because Myeloma ate a hole thru my right tibia I have learned to ask. Again, thank you so much for all of the information that you post and share for us all.

Reply
    David Emerson says 6 years ago

    Hi Angela-

    Timing is everything as they say. PeopleBeatingCancer has recently recieved a grant to provide MM Cancer Coaching to MMers like you. All I ask for in return is information from you. For example a testimonial from you about how you use the MM CC program and then updates about your progress if you have time.

    Let me know if you have any questions.

    Thanks

    David Emerson

    Reply
Sharon says 6 years ago

What is an MGUS starving diet? My sister died of MM at 54

Reply
    David Emerson says 6 years ago

    Hi Sharon-

    I am sorry for your loss. Food that starve both MGUS and MM (as well as other cancers) are those foods and supplements that are anti-angiogenic. This simply means that they cut off the blood and oxygen supply to cancer growth.

    David Emerson

    Reply
Barbara Benson says 6 years ago

OK -connect me to anything “natural” (normally I want to live on the edge … in Margaritaville) but with IgM MGUS … I think I should try to be good grrrrrr. IDiagnosed 2 years ago – after a 20 years+ of unanswered questions …ie: why do my kidneys hurt and a 10 years – why are my hands & feet numb? I am just now taking vitamins ie: Biotin my hair is now back and amazing. WINNING! I was taking B12 by injection but got horrible mialgia at the injection site. I now take sublingual (hope tests show good absorbtion). I am very active, physical and happy person. I need no emotional supports but I will take a look at any and all ideas on how to BACK OF THE BAD MGUS !!!!! QUESTION – Any MGUS related to sudden eye problems (seeing 3-D, vertigo, retinal neuropothy, cataracs, glacoma? I ended up with all of this in the last year. Would you give any information about MGUS IgM to an Opthamologist on a first appointment? I had obvious auto immune problems as a teenager and my first doctor (actually my baby doctor) said I should never give blood???), I complained about kidney pain for 20 years and periodic appearance of protein in urine (DAD was a diabetic – and I was fearful for that but NO … I more have hypogycemia). I eat little bits all the time or I fall over hahaha (more like I get very cranky). (PLEASE FOR GIVE SPELLING AND TYPYING). I think I got worse with a food poisoning – my feet hands numb and sometimes stinging … Now creeping up back of calves. Last test shows above normal creatine but I use muscle building protein & milk 3-5 times times per week (is that ok and it just fouls the test? Is it bad to drink whey protein?) Anyhow I would like to be KIND to my KIDNEYS MAN. Did you ever notice how similiar the words KIND & KIDNEYS are? Anyhow although I am way off being a scientist … my natural instinct is that the KIDNEY’S AND LIVER are the key … am I right? I kept asking the Doctors … WHY OH WHY DO I … have kidney pain??? Never got an answer. My Oncologist told me to go see my GP about my recent high creatine reading. Many years back I was diagnosed with a serious heart problem that disapeared??? 30 years ago I was diagnosed with dangerous osteoporosis … that has not hardly progressed. And I have no interest in bone altering medication giveN the horrible things it did to my mother (my belief). I have a 1st cousin with IgM MGUS and I do believe my mother’s family has this in the genetic line. One Oncologist told me that heredity had nothing to do with it. I spoke my mind and said that is unbeleivable … first cousins have a very rare form of MGUS … I would be interested in hearing about Canabis and pain … my entire life I have avoided pain killers except in short quick amounts for arthritis. It worked until the last time and quite a few veins in my legs let me know that I can’t do that anymore. So delighted to find this forum & your good story/outcome. I have lots of weird symptons to explore.

Reply
    David Emerson says 6 years ago

    Hi Barbara-

    You are correct- MGUS is said to be “asymptomatic” yet MGUS patients regularly talk about nerve pain, numbness, kidney damage and bone pain. The genetic susceptibility is not well-established. A genetic relationship or risk factor has been established but it is not conclusive.

    Several things. I will email the cannabis guide for multiple myeloma to your email address. CBD/THC availability largely depends on what state you live in.

    Secondly, there is no conventional treatment for pre-myeloma. SBP. MGUS and SMM are pre-MM blood disorders. The pre-MM cancer coaching program is based on research but not FDA or big pharma research. Registering for the pre-MM CC program is up to you. I encourage you to watch the free webinar explaining the program and make you decision accordingly.

    Lastly, yes, I believe that the liver and kidneys are the key to health. Heart health is right up there as well…

    David Emerson

    Reply
Rob Wright says 6 years ago

David, Thank you for your positive vibe. About 5 years ago I was diagnosed with mgus and opted out of chemo, I had lost my father and brothers to chemo treated cancers. Recently irregular heartbeat awoke me during the night. Occasionally I experience a dull sort of ache in my left lower abdomen. On a pain scale of 10 I would give it a one. Obviously I have not seen a doctor for years experiencing what seemed to me to be great health. Perhaps you can advise other indicative symptoms. I am 69, I think my mother, who died peacefully in her sleep may have had mgus. As I understand poor kidney function may cause heart failure?

Reply
    David Emerson says 6 years ago

    Hi Rob-

    MGUS, SMM and MM can cause varying degrees of kidney damage. And yes, irregular heart beats can also be a symptom. Though I am certainly no expert I also understand that there is a relation between heart function and kidney function.

    My view of all of the above is to be evaluated for mgus, heart, kidney function etc. You don’t have to undergo chemo or any therapy for that matter. But having a thorough diagnostic work up will give the information to think through your situation.

    Let me know if you have any questions.

    Hang in there,

    David Emerson

    Reply
MGUS- Non-toxic Therapies says 7 years ago

[…] Pain, Nerve Pain, Kidney Damage,  Skin Rash, Blood […]

Reply
MGUS Blood Disorder says 7 years ago

[…] Pain, Nerve Pain, Kidney Damage,  Skin Rash, Blood […]

Reply
MGUS and Genetic Risk - PeopleBeatingCancer says 7 years ago

[…] Pain, Nerve Pain, Kidney Damage,  Skin Rash, Blood […]

Reply
MGUS and Fracture Risk- PeopleBeatingCancer says 7 years ago

[…] Pain, Nerve Pain, Kidney Damage,  Skin Rash, Blood […]

Reply
MGUS Increases the Risk of Blood Clots - PeopleBeatingCancer says 7 years ago

[…] Pain, Nerve Pain, Kidney Damage,  Skin Rash, Blood […]

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Newly diagnosed MGUS or SMM? To treat or watchful waiting says 7 years ago

[…] Pain, Nerve Pain, Kidney Damage,  Skin Rash, Blood […]

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MGUS Nerve Pain - PeopleBeatingCancer says 7 years ago

[…] Pain, Nerve Pain, Kidney Damage,  Skin Rash, Blood […]

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Diagnostic Testing for MGUS - PeopleBeatingCancer says 7 years ago

[…] Pain, Nerve Pain, Kidney Damage,  Skin Rash, Blood […]

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