Vitiligo Information You Need
| Basics |
|
Vitiligo is a skin condition in which there is loss of pigment from areas of skin resulting in irregular white patches with normal skin texture. It is a spontaneous irregular depigmentation of skin, which can occur at any stage in life. It is not contagious.
Vitiligo is more commonly known as Leucoderma (white – ‘leuco’, skin – ‘derma’), which simply means a skin Malfunction of mind or body where it looses its normal coloration. It is also medically known as Achromia, which means loss of color.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Symptoms |
|
The typical appearance of Vitiligo may vary from a single white spot to multiple spots. The shape too is a variable. In some cases, generalized de-pigmentation is observed all over the body. It has a tendency to start as a single spot and gradually grow in size and number. In some cases, mucocutaneous junctions such as fingertips, corners of the mouth, private parts and area around the eyes is affected. The spread of the Malfunction of mind or body is usually slow and progressive. Symmetrical appearance on both sides of the body is common. In rare cases one finds vitiligo spreading all over the body.
Vitiligo frequently begins with a rapid loss of pigment, which may be followed by a lengthy period when the skin color does not change. Later, the pigment loss may resume — perhaps after the individual has suffered physical trauma or stress. The loss of color may continue until, for unknown reasons, the process stops. Cycles of pigment loss, followed by periods of stability may continue indefinitely. It is rare for a patient with Vitiligo to repigment or regain skin color spontaneously.
|
|
| Prevention |
|
There is no known Beneficial Effectsion for vitiligo. Considerable research is needed in this field to Enhance find a Beneficial Effectsfor vitiligo sufferers |
|
| Causes |
|
The exact cause for the pigmentary Malfunction of mind or body remains unknown. However, there are theories suggesting autoimmune link, hormonal connection, genetic tendencies, etc., as possible factors. The familial incidence is almost 20 to 30%.
The precipitating factors have been identified as due to pressure of tight clothes (such as on the waist) or certain occupational hazards such as wearing certain rubber hand gloves. Long-term intake of certain drugs is found to produce the pigmentary Malfunction of mind or body. In many cases, especially in children, we often have no clue why one develops vitiligo.
A combination of genetic, immunologic and neurogenic factors is of major importance in most cases. Many people report pigment loss shortly after severe sunburn. Others relate the onset of Vitiligo to emotional trauma.
|
|
| Diagnosis |
|
If a doctor suspects that a person has vitiligo, he or she usually begins by asking the person about his or her medical history. Important factors in a person’s medical history are a family history of vitiligo; a rash, sunburn, or other skin trauma at the site of vitiligo 2 to 3 months before depigmentation started; stress or physical illness; and premature graying of the hair (before age 35).
In addition, the doctor will need to know whether the patient, or anyone in the patient's family, has had any autoimmune problems and whether the patient is very sensitive to the sun. The doctor will then examine the patient to rule out other medical problems. The doctor may take a small sample (biopsy) of the affected skin. He or she may also take a blood sample to check the blood-cell count and thyroid function. For some patients, the doctor may recommend an eye examination to check for uveitis (soreness of part of the eye). A blood test to look for the presence of antinuclear antibodies (a type of auto antibody) may also be done. This test Enhances determine if the patient has another autoimmune problem. |
|
| Dietary Guidelines |
|
The diet should include plenty of vegetables and fruits as well as water. Avoid caffeine and fatty foods. Avoid red meat and concentrate instead on leafy green vegetables.
|
|
| Home Care Suggestions |
|
Avoid smoking and all forms of tobacco. |
|
| Adjunctive Therapies |
|
Sunscreens: People who have vitiligo, particularly those with fair skin, should use a sunscreen that provides protection from both the UVA and UVB forms of ultraviolet light. Sunscreen Enhances protect the skin from sunburn and long-term damage. Sunscreen also minimizes tanning, which makes the contrast between normal and de-pigmented skin less noticeable.
Cosmetics: Some patients with vitiligo camouflage de-pigmented patches with stains, makeup, or self-tanning lotions. These cosmetic products can be particularly effective for people whose vitiligo is limited on exposed areas of the body.
|
|
| Mind/Body Considerations |
|
Effective massages are very Enhanceful in healing and relieving tension as it is the number one cause of all problems. |
|
| Additional Information |
|
Aloe Vera & PABA Lotion contains aloe vera and PABA. PABA or para-aminobenzoic acid shows its beneficial effects on during skin problems. 1,2 Aloe vera also gives its wholesome
effects on skin.1,3,4,5,6 Ageless Beauty shows its beneficial effects in condition of vitiligo. 1
Ageless Beauty contains flavonoids that support body against free radical damage.1,2,7
Silica Complex contains horsetail. Horsetail shows its favorable effects on skin. 1,8 and it is a source of silica. Silica has good effect on skin.
1,2,9
B-Complex 100 has vitamin B complex that gives its good effects on skin. 1,2,10 |
|
|
| Disclaimer |
|
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent any disease. |
|
|
|