Bigg Boss OTT 3 winner and popular actress Sana Makbul recently revealed her ongoing battle with a rare health condition — autoimmune hepatitis. In a candid conversation on a podcast, Sana opened up about her diagnosis and the challenges she has faced since 2020. Despite achieving remarkable success in her career, she admitted that dealing with the disorder has significantly impacted her lifestyle and health.
Sana disclosed that her body's immune system mistakenly attacks her liver, resulting in inflammation and various health complications. In her heartfelt revelation, she also expressed how the diagnosis changed her outlook on life, compelling her to adopt a healthier and more conscious lifestyle to manage her condition.
Sana Makbul Reveals Autoimmune Hepatitis Diagnosis
During her recent podcast appearance, Sana Makbul broke her silence about her struggle with autoimmune hepatitis — a condition where the immune system attacks healthy liver cells, causing inflammation and potential liver damage. Sana shared that she was diagnosed with the condition in 2020 and has been on medication ever since. She revealed that her condition shares similarities with lupus, an autoimmune disorder that affects various organs and tissues in the body. In her case, the autoimmune response primarily targets her liver, resulting in fluctuating health conditions.
"I have a liver disease that was diagnosed in 2020. It’s called autoimmune hepatitis, and my immune system keeps attacking my liver," Sana shared. She further explained that while the condition has no specific symptoms, it can sometimes lead to severe complications if not managed properly. In addition to medication, Sana has made significant lifestyle changes, including switching to a vegan diet, in an effort to improve her overall health and reduce strain on her liver.
Living with Autoimmune Hepatitis
The actress also touched upon the toll that the disease has taken on her physical health. Addressing the noticeable weight loss that her fans had been commenting on, Sana explained that her condition, along with the medication she takes, plays a major role in her body changes.
"I take steroids, immunosuppressants, and other medications. It's a tricky condition to manage, and my health keeps fluctuating. Some days are better, some are worse," she shared.
Despite the challenges, Sana expressed gratitude for the support of her fans and loved ones. She also emphasised the importance of raising awareness about autoimmune hepatitis and encouraging others to take their health seriously.
View this post on Instagram
What Is Autoimmune Hepatitis?
Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic condition in which the immune system mistakenly targets the liver, leading to inflammation and potential liver damage. This condition is relatively rare but can significantly impact the functioning of the liver if not detected and managed early.
The exact cause of autoimmune hepatitis is unknown, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to trigger the disorder. In some cases, autoimmune hepatitis can progress to cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) or even liver failure if left untreated.
Symptoms of Autoimmune Hepatitis
The symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis can vary widely depending on the severity of the condition. Some people may experience mild symptoms, while others may face more severe complications. The common symptoms include:
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or low energy levels.
- Abdominal Discomfort: Pain or tenderness in the upper right side of the abdomen.
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to high bilirubin levels.
- Dark Urine: Urine may appear darker than usual.
- Joint Pain: In some cases, individuals may experience muscle and joint pain.
- Loss of Appetite: Reduced appetite leading to unintentional weight loss.
- Skin Rashes: Certain individuals may develop itchy skin rashes.
It is essential to recognise these symptoms early and seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and management.
Causes and Risk Factors of Autoimmune Hepatitis
While the exact cause of autoimmune hepatitis remains unclear, several factors may contribute to the development of the condition:
- Genetics: Individuals with a family history of autoimmune diseases may be more susceptible to developing autoimmune hepatitis.
- Environmental Triggers: Exposure to certain viruses, toxins, or medications may trigger the condition in genetically predisposed individuals.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop autoimmune hepatitis than men.
- Other Autoimmune Diseases: People with other autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or type 1 diabetes may have an increased risk of developing autoimmune hepatitis.
Also Read: Shilpa Shirodkar Drops 14 Kg at 51! Actress Reveals Her Secret Diet Plan for Stunning Weight Loss
How Is Autoimmune Hepatitis Treated?
There is currently no cure for autoimmune hepatitis, but early diagnosis and proper management can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with the condition. Treatment typically involves:
- Medications: Immunosuppressants (drugs that suppress the immune system) and corticosteroids are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and prevent further liver damage.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can help manage symptoms.
- Liver Monitoring: Regular medical check-ups and liver function tests are necessary to monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness.
- Liver Transplant (in severe cases): In rare cases where liver damage becomes severe, a liver transplant may be necessary.
Bottomline
Despite her diagnosis, Sana Makbul continues to inspire her fans with her resilience and positive outlook. Her decision to adopt a vegan lifestyle and take better care of her health highlights the importance of proactive health management.
By sharing her story, Sana aims to break the stigma around autoimmune diseases and encourage individuals to prioritise their health. Her journey serves as a reminder that with the right support and medical care, individuals can lead fulfilling lives even with chronic health conditions. As Sana continues to navigate her health challenges, her fans remain supportive, hoping for her full recovery and continued success in both her personal and professional life.