सुस्वागतम ... सुस्वागतम .... सुस्वागतम


सुस्वागतम ....सुस्वागतम ....सुस्वातम ....

आपले आरोग्यम धनसंपदा या विशेष ब्लॉग मध्ये स्वागत आहे , या विशेष ब्लॉग मध्ये बरेचश्या किचकट , कठीण आजारांवर योग्य पद्धतीने उपचार करणे कसे शक्य आहे हे सांगण्याचा आमचा छोटासा प्रयत्न आहे आपल्या सुचनाचे नक्कीच आम्ही स्वागत करू , आपल्या आभिप्रायाची आम्ही वाट पाहत आहोत . तेव्हा आपला अभिप्राय नक्की नक्की कळवा ......
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सुस्वागतम , सुस्वागतम आपले सहर्ष स्वागत आहे . आपण ब्लॉग पाहून आपल्या प्रतिक्रिया / संपर्क Email.- drsonawanesd@gmail.com नक्की नक्की कळवा संपर्क - आनंद हॉस्पिटल घोडेगाव ,शनी शिंगणापूर जवळ ता.- नेवासा , अहमदनगर , महाराष्ट्र मो.- ९८२२२८७३७६ फोन- ९२२६८८५१९४ आपण चिकुन गुनिया ,दमा, संधीवात ,पांढरे दाग याने त्रस्त आसल तर कायमस्वरूपी उपचारासाठी आजच संपर्क करा /पूर्व नियोजित वेळेसाठी 9822287376 / 9226885194 किव्हा drsonawanesd@gmail.com वर संपर्क करा प्राप्त पुरस्कार - आदर्श बहुजन मित्र , समाज भूषण , समाज प्रबोधन २००८ ( नासिक येथे उप. जिल्हाधिकारी श्री . शेखर गायकवाड यांचे उपस्तितीत ) कार्यगौरव पुरस्कार ( शिर्डी येथे गृहमंत्री आर. आर. पाटील यांचे हस्ते ) संत एकनाथ महाराज स्मृती गौरव पुरस्कार मा. ना.श्री. वसंत पुरके ( उपाध्याक्ष्य . महाराष्ट्र विधान सभा, मा. शिक्षण मंत्री )यांचे हस्ते, त्याच प्रमाणे ६ जानेवारी २०१२ रोजी जामखेड तालुका ग्रामीण पत्रकार संघाच्या वतीने पद्मभुषण डॉ. रजनीकांत आरोळे स्मुर्ती पुरस्कार नुकताच प्रदान करण्यात आला आहे . सदर कार्यक्रमास मा..आ.प्रा. राम शिंदे यांचे आध्यक्षते खाली ,मा.श्री . विक्रमसिंह पाचपुते (परिक्रमा शैकक्षनिक संकुल ) . मा.श्री. विजयकुमार पोटे ( माध्यम विश्लेषक औरंगाबाद ) , पी . ल शिरसाठ (अध्यक्ष महाराष्ट्र ग्रामीण पत्रकार संघ .,महाराष्ट्र ) संदीप कोकडे ( प्रांताधिकारी कर्जत विभाग ) आदी. उपस्थित होते.सावित्रीबाई फुले बहूउद्देशीय संस्था,आसेगाव बाजार जि अकोला व राजे युवा प्रतिष्ठान यांच्या संयुक्त विद्यमाने वितरीत करण्यात येणारा सावित्रीबाई फुले समाजरत्न राज्यपुरस्कार नुकताच डाँ संजय सोनवणे यांना प्रदान करण्यात आला गेल्या 14 वर्षापासुन वैद्यकीय क्षेत्रात असामान्य काम करीत असतांना, पांढरे डाग चिकनगुणीया अश्या अनेक आजारावर नवनवीन शोध प्रणालीचा वापर करून रुग्णांची सेवा करुन खरया अर्थाने सामाजीक सेवेचा कळस रचणार्या आगदी चिकुनगुनियाची नोद गिनीज बुक पर्यंत मजल गाठणाऱ्या डाँ संजय सोनवणेंचा सन्मान म्हणजे त्यांच्या कार्याला केलेले हा मानाचा मुजराच होय. whatsapp:- 9762378492

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

Leucoderma Awareness

1. What is Leucoderma / vitiligo?

Leucoderma is a relatively common skin disorder, in which white spots or patches appear on the skin. These spots are caused by destruction or weakening of the pigment cells in those areas, resulting in the pigment being destroyed or no longer produced. Many doctors and researchers believe that Leucoderma is an autoimmune-related disorder.. In Leucoderma, only the colour of the skin is affected. The texture and other skin qualities remain normal.

2. What does Leucoderma look like?

Leucoderma appears as uneven white patches on the skin, that may vary from lighter tan to complete absence of pigment. Many people develop Vitiligo bilaterally, in other words, if it appears on one elbow, it often appears on the other elbow. Researchers do not completely understand why this is. Others develop what is known as segmental vitiligo, where the patches develop in only one area or on only one side of the body.

3. What is an autoimmune disorder?

An autoimmune disorder is any of a number of conditions in which a person's immune system reacts against the body's own organs or tissues, and the person's immune system produces antibodies to them. An autoimmune disorder is NOT an "immune deficiency". In the case of Leucoderma, we believe that the immune system probably sees the person's own pigment cells as foreign bodies, and attacks them, destroying them or weakening them. Other examples of autoimmune disorders include thyroid disorders and pernicious anemia.

4. What is a Melanocyte (Pigment Cell)?

A Melanocyte is a specialized cell located in the skin, which produces melanin (pigment). Surprisingly, all humans have roughly the same number of pigment cells in their skin. Those with darker toned skin, have pigment cells that are able to store more melanin within them. In the diagram below, the cell with the tendrils, marked "I" is the melanocyte. The brown color within the cell is the melanin. The cell uses the tendrils to distribute the melanin evenly throughout the skin.

5.What is Melanin?

Melanin is a dark brown pigment of skin and hair in animals, particularly vertebrates, derived from the amino acid tyrosine. It is synthesized by special cells called Melanocytes, which also store the melanin.

6.What are the symptoms of Leucoderma?

People who develop Leucoderma usually first notice white patches or spots depigmentation) on their skin. The skin remains of normal texture, though very few people experience itching in areas where depigmentation is occurring. The white patches are more obvious in sun-exposed areas, including the hands, feet, arms, legs face, and lips. Other common areas for white patches to appear are the armpits and groin and around the mouth, eyes, nostrils, navel, and genitals. Leucoderma generally appears in one of three patterns. In one pattern (focal pattern), the depigmentation is limited to one or only a few areas. Some people develop depigmented patches on only one side of their bodies (segmental vitiligo). For most people who have Leucoderma depigmentation occurs on different parts of the body, in a bilateral pattern (generalized vitiligo). In addition to white patches on the skin, few people with Leucoderma may experience white hair growing in on the scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows, and beard.

7. I have Leucoderma patches on my underarms, my feet and my genitals. Is this common?

For reasons we don't really understand yet, there are certain parts of the body, which are commonly affected in those who have Leucoderma. The face, underarms, hands, wrists, fingers, feet, elbows, knees and genitals are among these areas. There are many theories about why such sensitive areas of the body seem to be commonly affected - the presence of many nerve endings, the bony nature, sweat glands, etc.

8. How does Leucoderma develop?

The course and severity of pigment loss differ with each person. In many cases, Leucoderma begins in a small area. Over time, other spots may appear, while existing spots may grow larger. Some people notice that their Leucoderma may stay the same for years or even decades, and then suddenly new areas of depigmentation may occur. Occasionally, Leucoderma patches will repigment spontaneously, all by themselves, with no treatment whatsoever. Many people with Leucoderma do notice this happening at some point in their lives.

9. Is depigmentation ever accompanied by itching?

Few,though not all affected, do experience itching of the skin prior to or while depigmentation is occurring. No research or studies have suggested a reason for this.

10. Will the Leucoderma patches spread over time?

Will they get larger? In many, but certainly not all cases ,Leucoderma does progress slowly over time, but there is really no way to tell whether your Leucoderma will progress or not. It is a slow progressing condition however, and many affected report that they may go many years without new patches developing, and then may discover new patches appearing years later. Some people even report spots that spontaneously repigment, with no treatment at all. Proper herbal medicines however, able to arrest new spots and even repigment old one.

11. Is Leucoderma at all contagious?

Leucoderma is NOT contagious. If it were, many more people in the world, including doctors who treat Leucoderma and family members of those with Leucoderma, would have the condition. There are many theories about what causes Leucoderma.

12. Where does the word "Vitiligo" come from?

It is believed that the word "vitiligo" comes from Latin. The first part of the word, "viti" is from the Latin word "vitium" meaning a mark or blemish. The suffix, "ligo" is a common Latin ending meaning to bind or cause.

13. How do you pronounce the word "vitiligo"?

Many people pronounce this word incorrectly the first time they see it. But to hear it correctly, say the words "Little I Go." Then replace the first "L" with a "V" - giving you "Vittle I Go." Run the words together and you have the correct pronunciation.

14. What causes vitiligo?

Many believe that vitiligo is a type of autoimmune disorder, in which the body's immune system sees the pigment cells in the skin as foreign bodies, and attacks them. Other theories include the possibility that an abnormally functioning nervous system may produce a substance that injures melanocytes. Some believe that melanocytes in Leucoderma affected may self-destruct, releasing toxic by products that then destroy other pigment cells. We know that some cases of vitiligo arise from exposure to certain chemicals, for example, phenols used in photography. Surgery wounds or injuries to the skin have also been known to result in Leucoderma, which can spread. Finally, there are alternative theories about Leucoderma that suggest diet, nutrition, and digestive disorders may play a role in the destruction of melanocytes. Some believe that internal pathogens within the digestive tract, such as yeast proliferation, might relate to vitiligo.

15. What is oxidative stress?

This is one theory about what may cause or contribute to the onset or exacerbation of vitiligo. Oxidative stress is an over-accumulation of hydrogen peroxide in the skin. Every person develops hydrogen peroxide in the skin, as a result of natural biological processes. An enzyme called "catalase" normally breaks down the hydrogen peroxide in the skin into water and oxygen. However, some people with vitiligo may have a problem manufacturing, using or delivering catalase to the skin.

16. Is it true that genetics may play a part in Leucoderma?

Most experts believe that there is a genetic base to Leucoderma which leads to susceptibility. In about only 12% of families where a person has Leucoderma, the condition is seen in another family member. Any one else may show signs of Leucoderma . 88% of Leucoderma affected have no family history of Leucoderma

17. What is genetic susceptibility?

This is the theory that the susceptibility or predisposition to vitiligo is genetic, and that some defect in the genetic structure, makes people more susceptible to vitiligo. While we do see vitiligo in more than one family member about 20% of the time, about 80% of patients report no other family members with vitiligo. Many experts agree that not everyone who is susceptible to vitiligo will necessarily develop it .

18. Is it true that exposure to certain chemicals can cause Leucoderma?

Some chemicals, particularly photography chemicals such as Phenols, can triggerLeucoderma in those who are susceptible. Phenols can also be found in many types of hair colorings, household stains, and similar products. There are other industrial chemicals and substances which may also trigger the onset of Leucoderma.

19. Are there things that a person with vitiligo should avoid?

In addition to the phenol type chemicals listed in the previous paragraph, there are other things and activities which people with vitiligo should avoid. Unfortunately, the list of activities, products and chemicals to avoid varies, depending on who you talk to.

20. Are there any other symptoms?

Will Leucoderma lead to other conditions or diseases?Other than the white patches of skin, there are no other physical symptoms of Leucoderma. As a secondary effect, Leucoderma patches will tend to sunburn more easily, and sunscreen is often recommended. Though some suggest eye color and vision may be affected by Leucoderma experts indicate that any effect on eye color or the retinal pigment is extremely rare, and any impairment of vision, even rarer.

21.Are there other conditions related to Leucoderma?

Leucoderma itself does not appear to "lead" to other conditions.
Some beleiveThyroid disorders (especially hypothyroidism) are quite common in those with vitiligo, and Some doctors feel treating thyroid disorders is important in treating vitiligo. Other related autoimmune conditions are much rarer.Nevertheless, most people with vitiligo have no other autoimmune disorders.

22. How is thyroid function related to Leucoderma?

Thyroid disorders are extremely common in every ethnic and racial group on the planet. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland just below the Adam's apple. This gland plays an important role in controlling the body's metabolism, that is, how the body functions. It does this by producing thyroid hormones ,that travel through the blood to every part of the body. Thyroid hormones tell the body how fast to work and use energy. Because vitiligo may well be related to numerous functions within the body, a properly functioning thyroid (or sufficient supplemental hormone) could be important in treating Leucoderma.

23. Are there treatments I should not use if I am pregnant?

There are definitely some medications which will pass through the placenta to your fetus. Ultraviolet light may also pose some risk. If you are pregnant, you should definitely consult with both your dermatologist, practitioners of Indian medicines regarding any risks to the various types of treatments available for Leucoderma

24. If I am pregnant and have Leucoderma, will my child developLeucoderma?

Most people with Leucoderma have no relatives with Leucoderma. However,12 percentage of people with Leucoderma do have parents, or siblings or children who develop Leucoderma that a genetic factor does appear to exist.

25. Am I at greater risk for skin cancer because of my Leucoderma?

While there is some disagreement in the medical community, many Leucoderma experts believe there is not an increased risk for skin cancer in Leucoderma affected. According to Pearl Grimes, MD, a leading medical expert on Leucoderma, "the current data show no increase in skin cancer in Leucoderma affected, both within the Leucoderma patches, or the normal skin...either way."

26. is PUVA or UVB associated with an increase in skin cancer in areas of Leucoderma?

Doctors say no. In psoriasis literature and articles, we do see an increase in skin cancer for those treating with UV light. But this is NOT the case for Leucoderma affected. In the case of Narrow Band UVB itself, many suggest that UVB is less carcinogenic. More research and data are required, since UVB and narrow band UVB are so new. But many doctors and researchers feel that Narrow Band UVB is safer than other light options.

27. Who is affected by Leucoderma?

About 1 to 2 percent of the world's population, or from 50 to 100 million people, have Leucoderma. In India nearly 5 crore people have this disorder. It is suspected that some countries may have higher incidents of Leucoderma, for various genetic and societal reasons. Ninety-five percent of people who have Leucoderma develop it before their 40th birthday, most between the ages of 10 and 30. The disorder affects all races, ethnicities and both sexes equally, which suggests that it truly is a human problem. Even on remote islands where the population is completely homogenous, we see instances of Leucoderma.

28. How long has Leucoderma existed?

We believe that Leucoderma has existed at least as long as the recorded history of man, and probably before that, since similar conditions are seen in many other animals. References to Leucoderma patches are mentioned in the bible, and in ancient Chinese and Greek writings.
29. How is Leucoderma diagnosed?

If a doctor suspects that a person has Leucoderma, he or she usually begins by asking the person about his or her medical history. Important factors in a person's medical history are a family history of Leucoderma; a rash, sunburn, or other skin trauma at the site of Leucoderma. In addition, the doctor will need to know whether the affected or anyone in the victim's family has had any autoimmune disorders and whether the affected is very sensitive to the sun. The doctor will then examine the patient to rule out other medical problems. The doctor may take a small sample (biopsy) of the affected skin. He or she may also take a blood sample to check the blood-cell count and thyroid function. The doctor may examine your skin with a special black light called a Woods Light, which illuminates areas of Leucoderma. This also helps the doctor rule out other conditions. For some affected, the doctor may recommend an eye examination to check for uveitis (inflammation of part of the eye). A blood test to look for the presence of antinuclear antibodies (a type of autoantibody) may also be done. This test helps determine if the affected has any other autoimmune conditions.

30. I was told Leucoderma could not be treated. Is that correct?

Leucoderma is difficult to treat - that much is true. But in the past few years, new treatments have been developed that are working good. And there are more options .Leucoderma can be treated through herbals But treatment can take time from 2years to 3 years or longer to see results.

31. I was told that Leucoderma was just cosmetic. Is that right?

It's true that Leucoderma is not fatal, and that it has no other physical symptoms other than white patches, the emotional and social effects of Leucoderma on people are well-documented.

32. Are there any new treatments being worked on?

More research and development than ever before is being conducted about Leucoderma and treating it through Indian system of medicines

33. What is a topical steroid cream or ointment?
Steroid creams come in different strengths.
Although still not completely understood, steroids may be helpful in re pigmenting the skin, particularly if started early in the condition and where only a few patches or spots need to be treated.. Doctors often prescribe a mild topical steroid cream for children under 10 years old and a stronger one for adults. affected must apply the cream to the white patches on their skin for at least 3 months before seeing any results. It is the simplest and safest treatment but not as effective as other herbal treatments,good advice is go for herbal treatment that is absolutely risk free.Steroids treatment must be carefully monitored, as steroids can thin and damage the skin if not carefully watched. The doctor will closely monitor the patient for side effects such as skin shrinkage and skin striae (stretch marks). Because of the side effects, steroid creams should not be used for extended periods of time.

34. What is a steroid?

Steroid is the Greek word for hormone. Some steroids occur naturally in the body, such as cortisol, sex hormones, bile acids. Cortisol is essential for all life. There are many kinds of steroids, Cortico, Glutico, Sex Hormones and Anabolic steroids. Anabolic steroids are illegal. When synthetic steroid hormones are prescribed and used correctly, they can be helpful, and their side-effects can be reduced. But when safeguards are ignored, damage can result.

35.What is topical psoralen therapy?

Topical psoralen photochemotherapy often is used for people with a small number of depigmented patches (affecting less than 20 percent of the body). It is also used for children 2 years old and older who have localized patches of Leucoderma. Treatments are done in a doctor's office under artificial UVA light once or twice a week. The doctor or nurse applies a thin coat of psoralen to the victim's depigmented patches about 30 minutes before UVA light exposure. The affected is then exposed to an amount of UVA light that turns the affected area pink. The doctor usually increases the dose of UVA light slowly over many weeks. Eventually, the pink areas fade and a more normal skin color appears. Most victimss wash off any topical residue after treatment. The two major potential side effects of topical psoralen therapy are severe sunburn and blistering and occasionally too much repigmentation or darkening of the treated area or the normal skin surrounding the leucoderma (hyperpigmentation).

36. What is skin grafting?

In an autologous (use of a person’s own tissues) skin graft, the doctor removes skin from one area of a victim's body and attaches it to another area. This type of skin grafting is sometimes used for affected with small patches of Leucoderma. The doctor removes sections of the normal, pigmented skin (donor sites) and places them on the depigmented areas (recipient sites). There are several possible complications of autologous skin grafting. Infections may occur at the donor or recipient sites. The recipient and donor sites may develop scarring or an uneven appearance, or may fail to repigment at all. Treatment with grafting takes time and is costly.

37. What is autologous melanocyte transplant?

In this procedure, the doctor takes a sample of the victim's normally pigmented skin and places it in a laboratory dish containing a special cell culture solution to grow melanocytes. When the melanocytes in the culture solution have multiplied, the doctor transplants them to the patient's depigmented skin patches. A fairly new technology, this procedure is still in the experimental stages.

38. What is Melagenina?

Melagenina (now Melagenina Plus) was developed in Cuba about 20 years ago, using human placenta tissue. They may now use other animal placental tissues. The company in Cuba that markets it claims high success rates, but these cannot be substantiated, and many people have claimed no results at all. The product instructions indicate that application of the cream should be several times a day, followed by 15 minutes of natural sunlight. In 1998, Melagenina Plus was announced, which unlike the previous treatment requires only once daily application and does not require exposure to the sun.

39. What is depigmentation?

Depigmentation involves fading the rest of the skin on the body to match the already white areas. For people who have Leucoderma on more than 50 percent of their body, depigmentation may be the best treatment option. Victims must avoid direct skin-to-skin contact with other people for at least 2 hours after applying the drug. The major side effect of depigmentation therapy is inflammation (redness and swelling) of the skin. Affected may experience itching or dry skin. Depigmentation is generally permanent and cannot be reversed. In addition, a person who undergoes depigmentation will always be unusually sensitive to sunlight.

40. How do I find a doctor that treats Leucoderma?

The best way to find a solution for Leucoderma consult LEUCODERMA AWARENESS MOVEMENT at 044 2226 5507 or 044 6538 1157,there you can avail good counseling medication by professionals to disappear Leucoderma.

41. Are there parts of the body that are harder to treat than others?

For some reason, certain parts of the body, including the hands, feet, and some areas where the hair has turned white, do seem to be harder to treat than other areas. However, many of today's brightest experts in the treatment of Leucoderma, maintain that ANY Leucoderma spot can be repigmented, and even hair repigmented, with enough work and dedication. Those who have Leucoderma should contact LEUCODERMA AWARENESS MOVEMENT and avail result oriented HERBAL treatment.

42. Can tanning beds (solariums) be used in place of PUVA or Narrow Band UVB?

Many experts suggest that tanning beds (also known as tanning booths and solariums) not be used in place of PUVA lamps or Narrow Band UVB lamps or even natural sunlight. The problem with tanning beds is that the lamps in these devices usually emit a much stronger, broader spectrum of UV rays, and may not be as safe or effective for people treating Leucoderma, and may result in severe burning or other side effects.

43. Can the genitals be treated?

Obviously a sensitive subject, but many people with Leucoderma have the same question.. The reality is, a substancial number of people with Leucoderma (estimated at 30 to 40 percent) do experience at least some (if not extensive) Leucoderma on their genitals. For many people, this can have an effect on their own esteem, and in their social and sexual lives.The genitalia can be treated and are in many cases responsive to treatment. Traditional therapies, such as Herbal medicines and food restriction, have been used to treat the genitals, both male and female.

44. Is it safe to use all treatments on the face and around the eyes?

Medicines suggested in traditional therapies have no harm.As with all ointments and creams, you want to discuss this with your doctor. The greatest risk to the eyes from Leucoderma treatment is UV exposure. Prior to any treatment with UV light, it is wise to have a full Ophthalmic exam.

45. Once a spot repigments, is it permanent? Will I have to treat my Leucoderma forever?

Right now,(in allopathy) the products available for treating Leucoderma, seem to be addressing the symptom of Leucoderma (the spots), and not the underlying cause, which we still don't completely understand. Once a spot has been repigmented, some people report that the new pigment lasts a long time, and many do not report any relapse of that spot. Some affected feel that if you can get a spot to "close," meaning, to be repigmented completely to the naked eye, that it will have a better chance of staying repigmented. Still, a significant number of people report that after repigmenting, and then stopping treatment, that over time, from a few months to a decade or longer, the areas start to lose pigment again.
At the same time, the alternative practitioners understood well the underlying cause of Leucoderma. Therefore, you can begin herbal based treatment by Indian Medicine practitioners as soon as possible..( you can avail treatment from LEUCODERMA CLINIC run by LEUCODERMA AWARENESS MOVEMENT.) This is also something important to consider. we treat the CAUSE of our Leucoderma, rather than just the symptoms.

46. Why bother treating at all if permanence of repigmentation is not guaranteed?

This is a common thought for those with Leucoderma. Why should we attempt to treat at all, and spend the money, if the permanence of our new pigment is not guaranteed? There are several reasons. First, for many people, simply making some attempt to repigment, in of itself, is a powerful emotional tool in dealing with their Leucoderma. Second, it is clear that the larger area of vitiligo, or the more extensive vitiligo is on a person, the harder it may be, and the longer it may take to repigment.

47. What if my health insurance won't cover my Leucoderma treatments?

Many health insurance companies will initially reject treatments for Leucoderma or will approve only some, because they claim the condition is only cosmetic. Of course we know that's not fully true. The key with insurance companies, is to be persistent until you achieve success. Until health insurance companies universally begin accepting Leucoderma as a legitimate medical condition that affects psychological and physical well-being, in addition to susceptibility to sunburn, this is how it must be done.The first step, is to have your doctor write a letter to the insurance company, explaining Leucoderma, explaining the psycho-social effect, and the physical risks of Leucoderma, such as serious sunburn. This is often sufficient, but it will be more convincing if you follow up with a letter of your own to the health insurance approval dept. Sometimes it will take more letters, phone calls, and supporting evidence, but if you are persistent, most insurance companies, will eventually give in, rather than have to receive any more letters and calls from you.

48. What research is being done on Leucoderma?

There is probably more research being conducted today in the area of Leucoderma, than ever before. From the genetic basis of autoimmune disorders, to the structure of the skin, and understanding the immune system, studies are now being conducted which may yield more information about the nature and causes of Leucoderma, and how to treat it more effectively.

49. How can I help?

LEUCODERMA AWARENESS MOVEMENT committed to supporting those affected by Leucoderma raising awareness, promoting research, and discussing effective treatments until a solution is found.. You can help support our efforts in various level. Please call LEUCODERMA AWARENESS MOVEMENT.
50. Will they ever find a treatment or a cure that works well for everyone?

Because people are different, and because there are thought to be many different causes of Leucoderma, different treatments work better for different people.

51. Are there cosmetics available to cover Leucoderma spots?

Yes, there are many products out there to provide excellent camouflage of Leucoderma spots. Some people prefer traditional waterproof makeup, designed to match every skin tone, and which can be applied to the spots only. Though they are waterproof, they are not always friction proof, and some men will not wear them. These types of covers are available in every skin tone, from very fair to dark black.

52. Is it true that I can make my own safe skin-colored stain to cover the spots?

Yes! Some affected of Leucoderma have created their own safe homemade skin stain, made entirely out of herbals and ordinary Food Coloring. By mixing the ingredients together, a brownish color results, and the tone can easily be adjusted to match your skin.

53. Is it safe for someone with Leucoderma to use hair dyes or bleaches?

No, it is not safe. Experts recommend that if you have Leucoderma, you should avoid hair colorings and bleaches. Chemicals in these products called Phenols may cause the onset or further spreading of Leucoderma. Temporary hair colourings however, such as henna, which do not contain phenols or phenol derivatives, are generally accepted as safe. When in doubt, you should consult with your physician.

54. Should I use sunscreen?

It is always a good idea for people with Leucoderma to use sunscreen,(Better use Umbrella) whenever they will be spending more than a few minutes in the sun. Besides the need to protect the skin from severe sunburn, sunscreen will keep non-Leucoderma affected areas from tanning, thus helping you to avoid the contrast that results between tanned areas, and Leucoderma spots.

55. What about sun-protective clothing?

Sun protective clothing can be a good addition or alternative to using sunscreens. Since sun protective clothing is an easy way to protect your skin from the sun without using chemicals such as those found in sunscreens, it is becoming more popular. This clothing is rated by a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rather than a SPF (sun protection factor), as it protects from both UVA and UVB rays. A garment with a UPF of 50 would block 98% of all UVA and UVB rays. Sun protective clothing can be found for men, women, and children, along with hats and sun protective swimwear.

56. How do I deal with the emotional issues of Leucoderma?

The change in appearance caused by Leucoderma can affect a person's emotional and psychological well-being and may create difficulty in professional and social situations. People with Leucoderma can experience emotional stress, particularly if Leucoderma develops on visible areas of the body, such as the face, hands, arms, feet, or on the genitals. Adolescents, who are often particularly concerned about their appearance, can be devastated by widespread Leucoderma. Some people who have Leucoderma feel embarrassed, ashamed, depressed, or worried about how others will react.Several strategies can help a person cope with Leucoderma. First, it is important to find a doctor who is knowledgeable about Leucoderma and takes the disorder seriously. The doctor should also be a good listener and be able to provide emotional support. Affected should also learn as much as possible about the disorder and treatment choices so that they can participate in making important decisions about medical care. LEUCODERMA AWARENESS MOVEMENT provides counseling and treatment through dedicated professional of this field.Talking with other people who have leucoderma can help a person cope with the disorder. LEUCODERMA AWARENESS MOVEMENT provides AWARENESS DOCUMENTARY, PAMPLETS,BOOKLETS for this very purpose, and most members here have found them an invaluable source of support. Relatives, family and friends are another important source of support.Finally, counseling with a registered practitioners can help you examine your fears, improve your self esteem, and find ways to deal with the emotional and social issues that everyone with Leucoderma faces.

57. People stare at my spots. I am embarrassed by my Leucoderma. Is there anything I can do?

First, understand that to most people, Leucoderma is unusual, and perhaps a bit unsettling. Do not be afraid to tell people what it is, especially children. Kids are pretty smart these days, and everyone can understand if you explain that Leucoderma is a condition in which the immune system sees the pigment cells as foreign bodies, and attacks them (our best explanation). Explain that it does not hurt, and that it is a genetic condition, and is not contagious.Finally, try to maintain a normal lifestyle. If you enjoy sports, or swimming, then you should continue to engage in these activities (remembering sunscreen where appropriate). Don't avoid social situations and parties - these are good for your psychological well-being. In the old days, many people thought Leucoderma was the result of burns or chemical spills. But people are becoming more aware about Leucoderma and it seems that almost everyone knows someone with the condition.

58. How do I explain Leucoderma to people? Should I even bother?

We suggest that you be honest and open, and explain to people that Leucoderma is a genetic condition, in which the body's immune system sees pigment cells as foreign bodies, and attacks them. Explain that it is a rather common condition, that it does not hurt or itch, and that it is not contagious. Finally, explain to them that treatment for the condition is improving. When they realize that this is a condition just like every other miserable condition humans inherit, they are less likely to be afraid of it.

59. I have a child with Leucoderma. What should I do?

Children usually cope best with Leucoderma when their parent(s) is/are prepared to talk about the condition as openly and truthfully as possible. To pretend you haven't noticed something so obvious may make it difficult for your child to talk to you about it. Because this is often so difficult for parents to cope with, especially as relates to other children, it is important to talk with teachers, and to be conscious if your child is being teased or bullied. Support your child, and encourage them to get involve with activities and hobbies. Teach them that it is OK to be different, and that it doesn't make them any less important. An useful documentary on Leucoderma awareness available at LEUCODERMA AWARENESS MOVEMENT completely free of cost , get it and ask your children to watch.

60. I am afraid I might lose my job because of my Leucoderma. What should I do?

Under our land of law, all citizens are protected from discrimination in their work or from being fired based on medical conditions or illness. If you feel that you have been discriminated against because of your Leucoderma, then you should consult an advocate (or contact LEUCODERMA AWARENESS MOVEMENT ) specializing in labour law.

61. I'm afraid my spouse or significant other won't be attracted to me because of my Leucoderma. What should I do?

Relationship issues are without question one of the most important social problems that come up with Leucoderma. People with Leucoderma are frequently concerned that they will no longer be attractive to their significant others, partners or spouses. What we find to be the case most often, is that the partners of people with Leucoderma are not terribly concerned about the Leucoderma, and often say that it does not bother them. So learn to communicate with your partner or spouse, express your concerns and fears. Another possibility is to make yourself attractive in other ways.

62. I feel self-conscious and uncomfortable at places like the beach ,marriage halls, swimming pools and other social gatherings What can I do?

Don't avoid the beach, social gatherings or swimming pools just because of your Leucoderma. Do not allow Leucoderma to interfere with the joy of living. From a physical aspect, it may make sense to go swimming and to the beach in the later afternoons, when the sun is not as strong. If it makes you feel better, wear stain or waterproof makeup cover. And if people ask about the Leucoderma, you should explain it to them just as indicated above.

63. How do I find a good counselor or psychotherapist to help me with the emotional issues?

When ever you feel distressed feel free to call LEUCODERMA AWARENESS MOVEMENT. Second to that, you should try to take medicine to disappear the conditions which affect your appearance. People at LEUCODERMA AWARENESS MOVEMENT help you to deal with Leucoderma, both inwardly and socially, and can work with you to maintain your self-esteem and pride.