Lupus, an autoimmune condition, mystifies many with its complexity and variable impact on sufferers. It strikes without warning, turning the body’s immune system against itself, causing inflammation and damage to any organ in the body, most commonly the skin, joints, and internal organs. Over the past 30 years, about 10,000 Malaysians have been diagnosed with lupus, with a higher prevalence among women (90 per cent).
Dr Cheah Chee Ken, Consultant Rheumatologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, shares his insights on the common symptoms, treatments, and necessary lifestyle adjustments for those navigating life with this often-misunderstood disease.
As an autoimmune disease, lupus presents with a broad range of symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, rash, and fever, which can vary from mild to severe.
“Lupus can manifest in myriad forms, each as unique as the individual it affects. It’s a disease of flares and remissions, which can make diagnosis and management particularly challenging,” explains Dr Cheah.
These symptoms may come and go, often flaring up (worsening) and then remitting. They can also develop gradually or appear suddenly.
Dr Cheah shares, “One of the main challenges with the disease is that it’s difficult to diagnose initially, as many lupus symptoms mimic those of other diseases, often leading to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment that could result in severe complications if not diagnosed earlier.”
Complications from lupus can be extensive, affecting multiple body systems. Key complications include lupus nephritis, which can cause kidney failure; neurological issues like seizures and cognitive impairments; cardiovascular problems including heart attacks and strokes; respiratory issues such as pleuritis and pulmonary hypertension; vasculitis; and blood disorders like anaemia.
“This is why early detection is so important: once you detect it early, you can start treatment early. When treatment begins early, it becomes easier to manage the disease, significantly reducing the severity of complications and improving overall outcomes,” shares Dr Cheah.
Lupus not only impacts the physical body but also takes a significant toll on mental health. The unpredictability of the disease can lead to anxiety and depression. Dr Cheah emphasises the importance of mental health support for lupus patients.
“It’s vital for patients to have access to psychological support such as support groups, counselling, and therapy. Many people may not be aware of what lupus is, which can lead to misunderstandings about the symptoms and capabilities of those affected by the disease. Awareness and education about the disease can also help foster empathy and support from the community,” he explains.
In managing lupus, treatment options and lifestyle modifications go hand in hand to ensure effective control over the symptoms. Advances in medication have introduced more targeted therapies that promise to tailor treatments specifically to the needs of individual patients, potentially reducing unwanted side effects.
“Unfortunately, there’s no cure for lupus because it comes from your own body. Once it’s activated, it will always just be there. The aim of treatment is to bring the disease into a well-controlled state called remission. These advancements are crucial, but they must be supported by consistent lifestyle adjustments,” says Dr Cheah.
Dr Cheah stresses, “Lifestyle modifications can significantly bolster the effectiveness of treatments, making them work better for the patient. This dual approach not only helps manage the physical symptoms but also supports overall wellbeing, addressing both the physical and emotional challenges posed by lupus.”
Understanding lupus is key to managing it effectively. Through education, awareness, and comprehensive care, individuals suffering from this challenging disease can lead fulfilling lives. Together, we can hope for a future where lupus is no longer a lifelong battle but a manageable condition.
“Lupus is a part of your life, but it doesn’t define it. With the right treatment and support, you can manage your symptoms and live well,” adds Dr Cheah.
