KATHMANDU, Jan 20: Dr Sudhir Karmacharya, a lupus specialist at the National Center for Rheumatic Diseases (NECRD), stated that lupus is more commonly seen in women than in men worldwide, a trend also observed in Nepal. He confirmed that out of 10 cases of lupus, nine are women and one is a man. "In Nepal as well, lupus is seen in women nine times more than in men," he said. However, he noted that no separate research has been conducted on the situation of lupus in Nepal.
Doctors in Nepal have stated that lupus patients seek treatment at health institutions at various stages: some in the early stages, some after developing rashes all over their skin, and others once their internal organs are affected.
Most lupus patients seeking treatment are between the ages of 15 and 40. Dr Karmacharya explains that the condition worsens during the cold season, leading more patients to seek medical attention.
Living with lupus, learning to thrive
In winter various infections, particularly pneumonia, influenza, seasonal flu, and stomach-related infections, are common. These infections worsen the symptoms lupus. The cold season also makes the body’s nerves more active, intensifying the pain from lupus. "As it gets cold and our activity levels decrease, lupus aggravates," Dr Karmacharya said.
Doctors explain that lupus occurs due to disruptions in the body’s immune system. Medical experts state that 0.03 percent of lupus cases are genetic, while the rest result from lifestyle factors.
Lupus inflicts problems, including rashes on the face when exposed to the sun, numbness and whitening of fingers upon contact with water, joint pain, body aches, mosquito-like marks on the skin, and hair loss. Women may also experience miscarriages. Sun exposure can trigger lupus. "Not everyone exposed to the sun develops lupus, but for some, the sun's rays can trigger the condition," Dr Karmacharya explained.
He also said that chemicals such as ultraviolet rays from the sun and viratoxins can trigger the symptoms of lupus. Furthermore, obesity, vitamin D deficiency, hormonal imbalances, pollution, pneumonia, chemical-laden foods, junk food, fast food, and a sedentary lifestyle can all play a role in the development of lupus.
Dr Karmacharya explains that women have more body fat than men, and this fat contains a chemical called leptin, which can contribute to the development of lupus.
He advises that regular medication, as prescribed by doctors, can help control lupus. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, maintaining weight, avoiding cigarettes, exercising, protecting oneself from winter infections, getting vaccinated against pneumonia and flu, and seeking timely treatment for anxiety can all help manage the disease. Dr Karmacharya warns that without timely treatment, lupus can lead to complications such as kidney damage and miscarriages.
