Dermatomyositis has been in the news because of the death of Suhani Bhatnagar, a young actress who played the role of Babita Phogat in the movie ‘Dangal’. She was diagnosed with dermatomyositis in 2023 and passed away on February 16, 2024, at the age of 19, due to multiple organ failure. Her death has raised awareness and concern about this rare and serious condition.
Dermatomyositis is a rare and serious condition that affects the skin and muscles. It causes inflammation, rash, and weakness in various parts of the body. It can also lead to complications such as difficulty swallowing, breathing problems, and organ damage. The exact cause of dermatomyositis is unknown, but it may be related to genetic, environmental, or immune factors. There is no cure for dermatomyositis, but treatment can help manage the symptoms and prevent further damage.
The symptoms of dermatomyositis include:
- A violet-colored or dusky red rash on the face, eyelids, and other areas of the body
- Muscle weakness, especially in the hips, thighs, shoulders, upper arms, and neck
- Difficulty swallowing, breathing problems, and calcium deposits in some cases
Dermatomyositis is a rare inflammatory disease that affects the skin and muscles. It can also cause complications such as aspiration pneumonia, kidney failure, liver damage, and death. It is more common in women than men, and it can affect adults and children.
If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. There is no cure for dermatomyositis, but treatment can help improve the symptoms and prevent further damage. Some of the treatment options include medication, physical therapy, exercise therapy, and surgery. You may also need to avoid sun exposure and certain foods that may trigger or worsen the condition.
