Suhani Bhatnagar, the 19-year-old actor known for her role in the 2016 film Dangal, has tragically lost her battle with dermatomyositis, a rare autoimmune disease causing muscle inflammation. Admitted to AIIMS, Delhi, on February 7 due to severe swelling, she succumbed to the illness on February 17. Her father revealed that the disease was diagnosed after tests at the hospital. ALSO READ: Babita Phogat Mourns The Tragic Loss Of Suhani Bhatnagar; Actress Who Played Her Younger Self In Dangal
What Is Dermatomyositis?
Dermatomyositis, the autoimmune disease that claimed the life of the Dangal actress, is characterized by skin rashes and chronic muscle inflammation. It falls under the category of myopathies, affecting skeletal muscle structure and metabolism, leading to muscle weakness and pain. Typically, it occurs in children aged five to 15 and adults aged 40 to 70, with women being twice as likely as men to develop dermatomyositis. ALSO READ: Dangal Fame Suhani Bhatnagar Passes Away At The Age Of 19; Fans Mourn The Loss Of The Young Star- Read REPORTS
The precise cause of dermatomyositis remains unknown to scientists. Potential triggers include environmental factors, abnormal inherited genes, or other autoimmune diseases. Individuals with connective tissue diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis may also be at risk of developing dermatomyositis.
While the exact cause remains unknown, potential triggers include cancer, infections, medications, genetics, or other autoimmune diseases. Suhani's father revealed that she developed complications after receiving steroid treatment for the disease. Complications of dermatomyositis can include lung disease, cancer, joint pain, and heart inflammation. Treatment involves managing symptoms with corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and physical therapy.
About two months ago, Suhani Bhatnagar's father reported that the Dangal actor started experiencing swelling in her hands, which eventually spread throughout her entire body. Initially considered normal, the swelling worsened, prompting her admission to AIIMS, where tests revealed she had dermatomyositis, a rare autoimmune disease. Despite treatments, complications arose, and Suhani passed away on February 17, 2024, due to weakened lungs, leading to difficulty breathing.
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