Things that can cause Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a long-term problem that results in loss of skin color in patches. The problem can affect people of any gender or age. All over the world, around 0.5 to 2 percent of people get affected by vitiligo. In this guide, we are going to highlight the different things which cause vitiligo.

What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a skin disorder that results in white skin patches. The problem happens when the melanocytes die within the skin. The melanin is responsible for the skin, hair, and eye color. The melanin pigment is produced by cells referred to as ‘melanocytes’.

The vitiligo problem is characterized as uneven skin patches where the melanocytes have been destroyed. The problem can affect different areas which include:

• Hair which includes eyelashes & eyebrows
• Retina
• Inside of the mouth and nose

The exact causes of vitiligo are not known. But, with time the vitiligo treatment is getting effective. Let’s understand the different causes which are shared by our vitiligo doctor:

• Hereditary

Vitiligo can run in the family, but it is not that common. In most cases of vitiligo, there is no link to family history. Still, many people wonder if the problem is hereditary. Still, more research needs to be done to predict the condition based on family history. 

Your doctor is the right person to make you understand what is the exact reason for the vitiligo. 

• Immune system problem

Research suggests that our immune system can play an important role. Our immune system starts attacking the body by mistake. In this case, melanocytes cells are considered as foreign objects and they get attacked. Individuals who have autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s disease (affect thyroid gland), and alopecia are more likely to get affected by vitiligo. 

It is still not sure how vitiligo and autoimmune disorder are linked to each other or which one causes the other. 

• Emotional stress

Emotional stress can also aggravate the condition of vitiligo. But, the relationship is still not understood. However, vitiligo is not life-threatening or contagious.The effect of the problem is noticeable which is quite distressing and can lead to emotional pain. 

• Physical Trauma

Physical trauma to the skin is related to exposure to harmful chemicals or sunburn. The factors can trigger or might increase the problem of vitiligo. 

The problem mostly appears on the site of injury but why it is not known. 

• Oxidative stress

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. The imbalance triggers due to pollutants, or UV rays.

Bottom line

The scientists are working their way to get the advanced treatment that can effectively manage the condition. In the next few years, one step forward will be taken for the effective treatment course of vitiligo. For more information, schedule your appointment today only.