Vitiligo is a long-term skin condition characterized by the loss of skin color in patches. It occurs when the melanocytes, which are the cells responsible for producing the pigment melanin, are destroyed or stop functioning. As a result, white or depigmented patches appear on various parts of the body.
Vitiligo causes the skin to lose its natural color. Because this affects a person’s appearance, many people consider vitiligo a “cosmetic problem.” Cosmetic means the problem only affects the way a person looks.
But vitiligo is more than a “cosmetic problem.” It is a medical condition. People get vitiligo when their body attacks its own melanocytes, the cells that give our skin, hair, and other areas of the body color.
These cells live in the skin, hair, lips, mouth (inside of), nostrils, genitals, rectum, eyes, and inner ear. When the body attacks them, the result can be a few light-colored patches on the skin. Others see widespread loss of skin color. Hair can develop a white streak. This can happen to hair anywhere on the body, including the top of the head, an eyebrow, or eyelash. If the body attacks these cells in the inner ear, the person may develop hearing loss.
What causes the body to attack these cells is not entirely understood. Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease. These diseases happen when the person’s immune system mistakenly attacks some part of the body.
Seeing a board-certified dermatologist can help with the following.
Getting an accurate diagnosis: A dermatologist can tell what is causing the white spots on your skin. It could be vitiligo or another skin disease.
Sunburn: A dermatologist can create a customized plan to help you avoid painful sunburns. The plan may include using sunscreen that right for you and wearing sun protective clothing when appropriate.
Hearing loss
The inner ear contains melanocytes — the cells that give our skin and other parts of the body color. If the body attacks these cells in the ear, hearing loss can occur. It’s estimated that between 12% and 38% of people with vitiligo have some hearing loss. Most people are unaware that they have hearing loss. Seeing a doctor who knows about vitiligo can help find hearing loss.
Illustration of the inner ear
Problems with the eyes: Some people with vitiligo develop changes in their vision and abnormal tear production. If your dermatologist sees signs of this, you will be referred to an eye doctor. These changes are best treated early.
Autoimmune diseases: Some people who have vitiligo develop an autoimmune disease. Being under a dermatologist’s care can help find these diseases earlier when treatment can be more effective.
Anxiety and depression: Researchers have found that many people who have vitiligo often feel anxious and embarrassed around others. It’s easy to understand why. People often stare and make rude remarks. Some people are obviously frightened. Facing this day in and day out can take a toll on a person’s self-image. Low self-esteem can develop, which can lead to depression.
If you feel anxious or depressed, a dermatologist may be able to refer you to someone who can help.
According to Siddha medicine, vitiligo is believed to be caused by an imbalance in the three doshas (energetic forces) of the body: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.Siddha medicine offers a holistic approach to treating vitiligo, focusing on balancing the doshas, purifying the body, and promoting overall well-being.
Herbal Medicines: Siddha practitioners use a variety of herbal medicines to treat vitiligo. These herbs are believed to balance the doshas and promote skin health. Some commonly used herbs include Manjishta (Rubia cordifolia), Karisalai (Eclipta prostrata), Nili (Indigofera tinctoria), and Neem (Azadirachta indica).
Panchakarma Therapy: Panchakarma is a detoxification and rejuvenation therapy used in Siddha medicine. It involves various purification procedures to eliminate toxins from the body and restore balance. Panchakarma therapies such as Virechana (purgation) and Vasti (medicated enema) may be recommended for vitiligo.
A diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is generally recommended. Certain foods, such as sour and fermented items, may be advised to avoid. Stress management techniques and regular exercise are also encouraged.
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