Vitiligo skin disease is a condition in which the skin loses pigmentation, resulting in white patches. This was the skin condition that Michael Jackson claimed to be suffering from during an appearance on the Oprah Winfrey show.
Although there is no definite cause of vitiligo, the big suspicion, according to many doctors and scientists is that it is probably due to an immune system malfunction. It is also evident that vitiligo does seem to be more common in those people already suffering from other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or hyperthyroidism. In most instances, the disorder frequently develops before the age of 40.
Michael Jackson's skin disorder probably developed in much the same way as most cases of vitiligo - exposure of the skin to the sun. In Michael's case, it was believed to have started on his hand. Could this be what led to his trademark glove? It could be that he wished to hide the white patches, as well as wisely protecting the hand from over exposure to the sun. Vitiligo also affects other other parts of the body that are exposed to sunlight, such as the feet, arms and face. It is important, therefore, that vitiligo sufferers protect their skin by using sunscreen and protective clothing.
Vitiligo typically arises in one of three patterns:
- -Focal- limited to one or very few areas
- -Segmental- loss of pigmentation on one side of the body
- -Generalized- widespread loss of colour, sometimes symmetrical.
It is normally very difficult to forecast the natural progression of vitiligo, as in some cases the depigmentation stops of its own accord, without any form of treatment, but more frequently, the white patches on skin spread to include almost the entire skin surface. Although vitiligo can affect anybody, it may prove to be more pronounced and disfiguring in those people with darker skin, often leading to aesthetic and low self-esteem issues.
Classic vitiligo treatments include medications, light therapy and surgery. These treatments are not always successful, time-consuming, expensive, and more worryingly, many have potentially dangerous side effects.
With no definitive cure for vilitigo, treatment is usually aimed at slowing the rate of pigment loss, with an option if required, to restore some colour to the skin, so a visit to a doctor is advisable if the symptoms become noticeable.
Medical treatment may start with a few common sense steps such as using sunscreen, or using cream to camouflage the affected areas of skin. Further treatment can take anything up to 18 months, and even then, trial and error may have to be used to find a suitable and practical treatment. Any vitiligo treatment choices are best considered following consultation with medical professionals.
One approach that many sufferers consider is a natural vitiligo treatment option, using herbal extracts and vitamins, together with diet and lifestyle changes. This method is a proven and successful vitiligo treatment approach, with the added bonus of no dangerous side effects.
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