How do I know if I have vitiligo?
Vitiligo develops with a tiny white spot (it can look as if it were made with the nib of a sharpie), which can go unnoticed for years. Sometimes the white spot will re-pigment by itself. People usually discover the depigmentation on their skin when the spot gets bigger and whiter. If you see the spot getting bigger, now would be a good time to see your dermatologist. Sun-exposed areas such as (face, hands, and feet are usually the first to get de-pigmented). Vitiligo can affect both male and female, young and old.
Other parts of the body can be affected by vitiligo. Vitiligo can cause premature graying where hair is present on body.
There are three patterns or characteristics to look for on the body:
- Focal: Covers a few areas of the body
- Segmental: One side of the body
- Generalized: Different areas of the body in a symmetric pattern
You can do an annual spot check with your partner or in the mirror. If you discover a white spot, do not panic, sometimes the body re-pigments itself. If you have questions and the spot seems to be getting bigger, seek medical attention from a dermatologist. If you think you have vitiligo, we will be holding our Vitiligo Support Group meeting on:
DATE: Saturday, September 6th 2014
VENUE: Emory University
(Alperin Auditorium Emory University 1525 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30322)
TIME: 11:00 AM -12:00PM
AGENDA: You can learn about vitiligo from our Emory University Medical doctor, Dr. Sulochana Bhandarkar and featured special guest, Dr. Anantha Holla from India who has extensive vitiligo research and has treated hundreds of people with his holistic and new treatment approach. Learn how to live with vitiligo from Atlanta members. Learn the underlying causes of vitiligo. Learn what you might be eating or exposed to that may be triggering your vitiligo. Join our Facebook support group at www.facebook.com/vitiligobondinc