Vitiligo: Causes, Symptoms and How to Deal with!

• Written by Rashmi Rai

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Abhishek Khanna was the epitome of confidence and enthusiasm. As a vibrant young boy, he threw himself into every school event, shone brightly as the elected head boy, and embraced the challenges of adolescence with an unshakeable spirit. However, as he was to complete his graduation, his life took an unexpected turn. A skin condition with white patches began to appear on his skin, showing signs of vitiligo, a condition that disrupts the normal pigmentation of the skin.

The emergence of these patches didn’t just affect Abhishek’s appearance; it started to impact his confidence and performance. What once was a source of pride and leadership now became a struggle. His parents, deeply concerned and overwhelmed, faced the harsh reality of a condition that, despite its widespread prevalence, remains without a cure.

Vitiligo is more than just a cosmetic issue; it’s a skin disorder where white patches affect not only the individual but their loved ones as well. The emotional toll it takes can be profound, making it crucial to create awareness and support for those living with this condition.

Read on as we discuss the importance of understanding vitiligo, the impact it has on individuals like Abhishek, and why creating awareness and encouragement is essential for those navigating life with vitiligo.

What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect people of all ages and races. Being an autoimmune disease, vitiligo destroys melanocytes, the skin cells that are responsible for producing melanin, which gives your skin the colour it has. Since melanocytes are destroyed, it leads to loss of skin pigmentation, causing white macules or patches. Hair in the affected area may turn white or silver.

Interestingly, only around 1% of the world's population is affected by skin problems caused by white patches. People who are suffering from certain diseases like Type 1 Diabetes, Thyroid, etc., are at a higher risk of developing vitiligo. Dark-coloured people may have a more visible form of vitiligo. Typically, autoimmune skin disorders with white patches start on your face, hands, forearms, or feet. The patches may or may not spread for years. In some cases, it may spread to the whole body. The case may vary from one person to another!

Note: Vitiligo is a non-communicable disease that cannot spread from one person to another!

What are the Causes of Vitiligo?

Reading about vitiligo, you may wonder about the exact cause behind it! Well, the exact cause behind vitiligo remains unclear. So far, studies have concluded that there may be various reasons behind it, such as genetic changes in the body, environmental factors around it, stress, or an autoimmune condition. Through years of study about vitiligo, it may also be said that some people are at higher risk of developing vitiligo, like Type 1 diabetes, lupus, anaemia, psoriasis, Addison’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, etc.

People with a direct family history of Vitiligo may also be at risk of developing it. After a detailed diagnosis, your doctor may be able to diagnose the condition better. So, if you suspect the symptoms of skin conditions with white patches, it is best to seek medical attention at the earliest opportunity.

Vitiligo and Its Complications

Vitiligo does not usually cause health complications. However, certain alterations may occur in one's body after contracting the disease. For instance, sunburn may become more harmful and irritating due to the thin layer of skin and lack of melanin. Additionally, the person may experience some degree of hearing or eye problems. However, with proper medical attention, the situation can be brought under control.

Apart from the physical issues, a lot of vitiligo patients suffer from anxiety because of their changing looks. The physical appearance of a person can greatly affect their self-confidence, and often, patients face the challenges of social restriction.

>> Also Read: 5 Common Skincare Ingredients that May Lead to Cancer

Living with Vitiligo: The Management and Treatment

Treatment for vitiligo is usually not a necessity since it mostly does not cause any health complications. For many, vitiligo may pose emotional challenges and mental constraints. In such a condition, one may seek counselling to be able to better deal with this new change.

If someone is willing to restore their even skin tone, they may go for medical treatment. It may include medications, light or skin therapy, or depigmentation therapy. These are helpful in either restoring the lost melanin or removing the remaining melanin to make the skin even tone. Surgery like skin or blister grafting can also be opted for to treat disease with white patches on skin.

In Closure

Vitiligo is more than just a skin condition. It is a journey that demands compassion, understanding, and support. Abhishek's story underscores the profound impact that vitiligo can have on a person's life, affecting their confidence, performance, and overall well-being. It is, therefore, imperative that we create a more inclusive and empathetic environment for those living with vitiligo.

At Care Health Insurance, we go beyond giving our customers comprehensive and affordable health insurance plans. It is our sincere endeavour to raise awareness and help patients suffering from such medical issues. By raising awareness, challenging misconceptions, and offering encouragement, we can help individuals like Abhishek embrace their uniqueness and thrive despite the challenges they face. We urge all our readers to offer support to those who are living with vitiligo, along with inclusivity and kindness.

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