Tannaz Irani, widely recognized for her role in Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, recently shared her inspiring yet challenging journey of battling a debilitating condition known as Avascular Necrosis (AVN). In an emotional conversation on the Inner Habit podcast, the actress described how this health issue impacted her mobility and daily life, even confining her to a wheelchair at one point.
A Mysterious Health Struggle
In 2021, Tannaz began experiencing difficulties with walking, initially attributing her discomfort to weight gain or a minor issue. Seeking solutions, she tried chiropractic treatment and martial arts training, but her symptoms only worsened.
"I couldn’t put weight on my leg, and I started limping in a strange way. People around me sensed something was wrong," she recounted. Despite undergoing numerous treatments and MRIs, her condition remained undiagnosed.
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As her symptoms progressed, Tannaz experienced pain in her knees, back, and ankles, complicating her mobility further. Though tests hinted at AVN—a condition commonly associated with alcohol abuse or steroid use—doctors were puzzled, as neither applied to her.
Coping with the Condition
The severity of her condition became evident during a vacation when Tannaz had to rely on a wheelchair and endure excruciating pain despite painkillers. Eventually, she underwent hip replacement surgery, which significantly altered her life.
"Post-surgery, when I realized one leg was longer than the other, it felt like a cruel joke," Tannaz shared, describing the emotional toll of her journey.
Understanding Avascular Necrosis
As per Dr Sachin Bhosle, Senior Consultant, Orthopedic surgery, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, Avascular Necrosis, also known as osteonecrosis, occurs when blood flow to the bones is disrupted, causing the bone tissue to die. Bones rely on a steady blood supply for growth and repair, and when this supply is blocked, it leads to bone deterioration and, eventually, joint damage.
The hip joint, due to its intricate network of narrow blood vessels with sharp bends, is particularly vulnerable to AVN. As the bone dies, it weakens the surrounding joint, often leading to arthritis—a condition marked by severe pain and stiffness.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
In the early stages, AVN may not present noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition advances, the following signs often emerge:
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- Localized Pain: Discomfort in the groin, thigh, or buttock area, especially when weight is applied to the hip joint.
- Joint Pain: Pain may extend to other joints, such as the shoulder, knee, or foot.
- Persistent Pain: Discomfort may persist even while resting or lying down.
- Bilateral Symptoms: AVN can affect both sides of the body, such as both hips or knees.
The pain typically starts as mild but can intensify over time, significantly impacting mobility and quality of life.
The Importance of Awareness
Tannaz’s journey highlights the challenges of diagnosing and managing AVN. Awareness of the symptoms and seeking timely medical advice can play a crucial role in mitigating the condition’s impact.
If left untreated, AVN can lead to joint collapse, necessitating invasive procedures like hip replacement. Early intervention, lifestyle adjustments, and physical therapy can help manage symptoms and maintain mobility.
Bottomline
Tannaz Irani’s openness about her battle with Avascular Necrosis sheds light on a condition that often goes unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage. Her story serves as a reminder to prioritize health, seek timely medical attention, and support others navigating similar struggles.