Vitiligo – Does it affect the quality of life of patients?
Vitiligo is a common skin-related disease characterised by the formation of depigmented patches on the skin. These patches are pigmented much lighter than your original skin colour. A lot of studies have been conducted to examine the impact of the condition on the daily life of the patients, and the results are overwhelming.
For both the person with vitiligo patches and family and friends, accepting the diagnosis and adjusting to life with the visible appearance of vitiligo patches takes time. Although the condition does not cause any potential harm to health, it can significantly affect the daily life of the person. From minor choices like clothing style to major decisions like career and relationship can be affected.
Today, we will discuss in detail various ways in which vitiligo symptoms can affect daily life and practical solutions to handle it. These solutions will also include information about effective medical procedures for the condition.
How does vitiligo contribute to daily life difficulties?
From self-acceptance to cultural disbelief, due to the inherent visibility of skin disorders, vitiligo patients have to face a number of psychological challenges on a daily basis. The condition is accompanied by a significant loss of privileges, opportunities, and possibilities. Herein, we highlight these difficulties along with steps a person can take to deal with them.
A battle with the SELF
People with white marks on skin may find it difficult to accept their skin and have to deal with poor body image. They might often question the universe: “Why me.” They are also worried about the possibility of developing new patches. However, it is a completely unpredictable thing.
Sad with alterations in their skin colour, it is quite common for vitiligo patients to look for temporary fixes, like covering the patches with appropriate changes in clothing style or by using makeup. They also do so to avoid comments from people or unwanted attention in public gatherings.
How can we deal with poor body image due to Vitiligo?
Do you know that approximately 1 % of the world’s population has this condition? Does it seem less to you? Well, it means almost 70 million people in numbers. We are not mentioning this fact to make you feel more comfortable about your skin condition with white patches; instead, we reflect on the fact that it is an autoimmune condition that can affect anybody. Yes, it affected you too, but you are not the only one it affected.
Sometimes, instead of questioning the circumstances, it is important to develop acceptance towards it and look for the most effective solutions that can implemented. For this purpose, you can try;
- Studying about famous personalities who achieved great success breaking all the odds due to vitiligo
- Seeking support from your loved ones
- Educating yourself about vitiligo disease treatment options
- If needed, you can also connect with qualified medical experts for psychological support
Social Life and Relationships
Even if you embrace your true self, the world will constantly assign labels and make judgments regarding your situation. It will require time to learn how to manage this external pressure. Your relationships might also suffer as a result. You simply need to accept that those individuals were not meant to be a part of your life and seek genuine relationships. Let’s explore some important tips for dealing with societal pressure related to vitiligo on a daily basis.
Steps to deal with the Social Stigma;
- Permit yourself to stay out of awkward situations
- Live in the present moment ( I mean, we don’t own all the worries of life)
- Participate in hobbies of your choice
- Try to educate people around you about vitiligo
- Look for true connections ( repeating this)
Health Challenges that come with the condition
Vitiligo can sometimes cause other skin or health problems, too. Lack of melanin makes the skin more susceptible to the effects of the sun. Vitiligo can also be associated with eye-related problems such as swelling of the iris, uveitis, and partial deafness (hearing loss).
Coping with health-related issues
You can implement the following steps to manage the white patches on skin and prevent them from causing any further harm;
- Sun protection: To prevent sun damage to your skin, use natural sunscreen. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating. Wear clothes that cover your skin from the sun, such as long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Consume an antioxidant-rich diet: Including a range of coloured fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and spices. Omega-3-rich foods in your vitiligo diet may also assist in easing your symptoms.
- Find a support group: You may locate a vitiligo support group in your region or through an internet community. Connecting with people who have vitiligo might make you feel more confident and at ease.
- Get in touch with a doctor: To avoid any further complications associated with the condition, it is always beneficial to consult a doctor, especially if you are experiencing any discomfort related to your eyes or ears.
Is there any hope for vitiligo?
Whether or not you want to seek treatment for white spot on skin is a personal choice. It is okay both ways. However, people lack the knowledge of factors to look for in a vitiligo treatment plan. That is why they end up going with ineffective medical procedures. Other than financial loss, they also face great disappointment and get more stressed about their condition.
If you are planning to opt for a vitiligo treatment, below we list the factors you must look for in the medical plan;
- The condition occurs due to issues in the functioning of the immune system. So, instead of merely focusing on improving the skin texture visibly, the vitiligo medication must correct the imbalances present in our immune system.
- As the skin of vitiligo patients is relatively sensitive, the approach to treating vitiligo must be safe and gentle.
- The treatment must offer proper guidance on diet and lifestyle changes.
- The medications or drugs prescribed must not lead to any further complications or cause additional side effects.
- Doctors must have a humble and empathic approach towards the emotional health of patients.
Bharat Homeopathy – India’s leading clinic to treat Skin disorders
Our homeopathic treatment for white spots on skin has been successful in offering permanent relief to countless patients from their condition. We have a team of qualified homeopaths for skin-related disorders dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions to their patients.
Firstly, they analyse the medical history of the patient to look for the causative factor behind the condition. Only after that, they prescribe highly personalised homeopathic medicine for vitiligo as per the patient’s need, along with a diet plan curated according to the patient’s eating habits. They also guide them with lifestyle tips.
To find a comprehensive and efficient answer to your skin concerns, get in touch with our skin specialists right now.
