Doctors in North India are reporting a potential rise in lupus cases coinciding with the intense heatwave gripping the region. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects women between the ages of 15 and 45. So far, 6 to 10 cases of lupus have been reported in the national capital region of Delhi due to the heat waves.
According to the Lupus Foundation of America, Lupus is a chronic condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs. This widespread inflammation can damage various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood cells, and even the brain.
To understand more about this disease the Onlymyhealth team spoke to Pooja Shah Bhave, Consultant Clinical Dietician and Certified Diabetes Educator and Dr Shaloo Bhasin Gagneja, Consultant - Rheumatology, Manipal Hospital, Gurugram.
Symptoms Of Lupus
Bhave explained, “A common characteristic of autoimmune diseases is the development of inflammation. This inflammation causes most of the unpleasant symptoms patients experience and can also lead to complications. While some inflammation is necessary to fight off pathogens, excessive inflammation in autoimmune diseases like Lupus can be very harmful to the body's normal functions.”
She also highlighted some common symptoms of Lupus:
- Facial rash
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Skin lesions triggered by sun exposure
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Dry eyes
- Headaches
- Confusion and memory loss
- Distinctive butterfly-shaped rashes on the face
- Organ dysfunction
What Causes Lupus?
An estimated 43.7 per 100,000 people globally are affected by this autoimmune disease, translating to approximately 30.41 lakh individuals. These statistics were provided by a study published in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases.
“The exact cause of lupus remains unknown, but it's believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors,” said Bhave. While the sun's ultraviolet rays are a known trigger, the current heatwave may also be contributing to flare-ups in people with a genetic predisposition. Other potential triggers include smoking, certain medications, and viral infections.
How To Treat Lupus?
While there's no current cure for lupus, Dr Gagneja emphasised it can be effectively managed to achieve remission. Early diagnosis and treatment with modern therapies, combined with regular monitoring by a rheumatologist, are crucial for patients to lead healthy lives.
Dr Gagneja highlighted some steps to practice this summer to avoid Lupus flare-ups:
- Sun Protection: Limit sun exposure and consistently use high-SPF sunscreen.
- Healthy Habits: Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Medication Adherence: Only take medications as prescribed by your doctor and never stop them without consulting your health care providers first.
Bhave and Dr Gagneja concluded that with proper management, most people with lupus can lead active and fulfilling lives. Early detection and treatment are crucial for controlling lupus and preventing serious complications. If you're experiencing unexplained fatigue, joint pain, or skin rashes this summer, especially during the heatwave, consult a doctor for prompt evaluation.