By Dr. Vishad Viswanath, Consultant Rheumatologist & Medical Director, IRIS – Trivandrum & Kollam

When 22-year-old Aishwarya from Palakkad started feeling persistently tired, with joint pain and hair loss, it was easy to assume it was stress or exam pressure. But over time, more troubling symptoms appeared—frequent fevers, painful mouth ulcers, and rashes triggered by even a little sunlight.

She visited multiple doctors and tried everything from iron tablets to counseling, but nothing worked. It took nearly a year—and a consult with a rheumatologist—for Aishwarya to finally get a diagnosis: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).

Unfortunately, her story is far from unique.

What Is Lupus?

Lupus, or SLE, is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system, instead of protecting it, attacks its own healthy cells and tissues. It can affect nearly any organ—skin, joints, kidneys, brain, heart, or lungs. This makes lupus unpredictable, complex, and often misunderstood.

Its early symptoms—like fatigue, joint pain, and skin rashes—can be vague and easy to misdiagnose. Some people may only experience skin issues, while others face life-threatening complications such as kidney damage or seizures.

Who Is at Risk?

Though underdiagnosed in India, lupus is more common than many realise—impacting an estimated 40–60 per 100,000 people. Women in their reproductive years (ages 15–45) are particularly vulnerable, making up 90% of cases.

But lupus doesn’t discriminate entirely. Children and teenagers can also be affected, often more severely. Men, while less frequently diagnosed, tend to experience a more aggressive disease when it does occur.

What Causes Lupus?

The exact cause remains unclear, but genetics, hormones, and environmental triggers all play a part. In India, sunlight is a major aggravating factor—many patients report worsening symptoms after sun exposure. That’s why photosensitivity is a key symptom to watch for in our tropical climate.

The Many Faces of Lupus: From Mild to Severe

Lupus can vary wildly—from mild joint pain and fatigue to severe, life-threatening inflammation of the kidneys or brain. This variability leads to frequent delays in diagnosis. And when left untreated, lupus can cause irreversible damage.

That’s why early recognition is so important.

Lupus and Life: The Social and Emotional Impact

Lupus often shows up during the most defining years of life—when young people are pursuing careers, relationships, and independence. In India, where family roles and health are closely linked, a diagnosis like lupus can carry a heavy emotional and social toll.

For many women, the illness interrupts—not ends—their dreams. With the right treatment and support, they can continue their studies, careers, and relationships. Lupus may slow you down, but it doesn’t stop the journey.

Marriage, Stigma & Pregnancy

A common concern among patients and families is whether lupus affects marriage or motherhood. Here’s the truth:

• Lupus is not contagious.
• There is no taboo for Marriage and Mother hood for Lupus Patients.
• With medical guidance, most women with lupus can have safe pregnancies and healthy babies.

However, planning is key:

• Aim to conceive when the disease is in remission.
• Review medications with both your rheumatologist and obstetrician.
• Monitor the pregnancy closely to manage complications early.

Advances in medicine have made pregnancy safer than ever for women with lupus.

Emotional Support Is Essential

Lupus can make patients feel isolated or misunderstood. Support groups, counselling, and patient education can offer reassurance. More importantly, family support—emotional and practical—can make all the difference in managing the illness.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Lupus is diagnosed using a mix of clinical signs and blood tests—such as ANA, anti-dsDNA, and complement levels. A rheumatologist is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

The good news? Lupus is manageable.
While there’s no permanent cure, many people live full, active lives with the right treatment. This may include:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Steroids
• Hydroxychloroquine
• Immunosuppressants or biologics (in severe cases)

Skipping medications or abruptly stopping treatment can lead to dangerous flares—so regular follow-up and adherence to treatment are crucial.

Living Well with Lupus: Tips for Daily Life

If you or a loved one has lupus, here’s how to live better:

• Avoid long sun exposure; always use sunscreen
• Take your medications consistently
• Schedule regular follow-ups with your doctor
• Stay active within your comfort levels
• Treat infections early
• Seek mental health support when needed
• Be positive; Lupus is eminently treatable

Lupus Doesn’t Define You

Lupus is not the end—it’s a part of the journey. With awareness, early diagnosis, and compassionate care, people with lupus can live meaningful, joyful lives.

Let’s ensure no more Aishwaryas go unheard.

Dr. Vishad Viswanath
Consultant Rheumatologist & Medical Director
Institute for Rheumatology and Immunology Sciences (IRIS), Trivandrum & Kollam