Does vitiligo spread through contagion?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on November 22, 2024
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Vitiligo is not contagious, and it will not be transmitted to others through contact once it appears. However, this disease does tend to have a genetic predisposition. The main factors contributing to vitiligo include decreased immunity, a deficiency of copper in the body, localized trauma, or genetic heredity. There are also some reasons that cannot be fully identified through medical examination. After vitiligo appears, its progression varies from person to person. Some patients experience rapid development, with the affected area expanding significantly within a few months, while others see slower progression. Generally, if the spread is quick, it is necessary to seek routine treatment promptly. If the affected area is small and the progression is very slow, it might be reasonable to observe for a while to monitor the development of the patches before deciding on the treatment approach. In any case, it is crucial to take vitiligo seriously upon its onset, continuously observe its progression, consult a doctor to assess the severity of the condition, and receive appropriate treatment.

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Written by He Da Wei
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early symptoms of vitiligo

The best treatment period for vitiligo is in its early stages, but the early symptoms of vitiligo are easy to overlook, often presenting as smooth white patches the size of nails, with few depigmented patches, typically only 1-2, and most commonly appearing on exposed areas of the skin. Sometimes, the color of the depigmented patches is not very different from the surrounding skin, making it difficult to detect. Vitiligo generally occurs in areas susceptible to sunlight exposure and friction damage, and it mostly affects adolescents, generally before the age of 20. Many teenagers might feel too young to experience serious health issues, thus neglecting to monitor their health. However, early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial and delays or blind treatment should be avoided.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Will vitiligo keep spreading?

Vitiligo is related to one's immunity, hereditary factors, copper deficiency in the body, or local trauma. Once vitiligo is detected, it often continues to spread, especially in individuals with very weak physiques, where the spreading might occur rapidly. Upon detection, it is advisable to seek diagnosis and standard treatment at a dermatology department in a reputable hospital. The treatment usually involves a combination of oral medication, topical medication, and 308 laser therapy. During treatment, it is important to exercise to boost immunity, avoid spicy and irritating foods, avoid staying up late, and eat more dark-colored foods. Foods rich in vitamin C should be consumed in moderation. Treating vitiligo can be slow and requires long-term persistence. Once detected, efforts should be made to prevent the condition from spreading further, as larger affected areas can result in poorer treatment outcomes.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can patients with vitiligo use mobile phones?

Generally speaking, playing with mobile phones does not affect patients with vitiligo, but it is important not to stay up late while using them. If staying up late regularly leads to a decreased immune function, it can worsen the symptoms of vitiligo. Vitiligo is mainly associated with reduced immunity, genetic heritage, a lack of copper in the body, or local trauma. Once detected, it is crucial to seek formal treatment in the dermatology department of a reputable hospital. Oral medication combined with topical drugs, along with the 308 laser treatment, yields better results. Consuming more black-colored foods is recommended, while it is best to avoid consuming too much food rich in vitamin C. If long-term treatment is ineffective, melanin transplantation can also be considered. It is essential to undergo formal treatment; otherwise, the affected area may continue to expand, and the difficulty of treatment will also increase.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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What fruits can people with vitiligo eat?

Any type of fruit can be consumed as long as it is done normally, appropriately, and in moderation. Even fruits rich in vitamin C have little impact on vitiligo. Consuming fresh fruits normally provides various vitamins and trace elements, which are beneficial to the human body. However, long-term excessive intake of vitamin C-rich foods, medications, or fruits may trigger vitiligo.

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Written by Liu Gang
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What to do if vitiligo spreads during pregnancy?

Generally speaking, during pregnancy, due to reduced immunity, hormonal changes, or deficiencies in vitamins and trace elements, vitiligo can spread and worsen. Using oral and topical medications during this period is troublesome, and pregnant women are generally advised against taking medications. It is advisable to visit the dermatology department of a regular hospital for localized 308 laser treatment, which does not affect pregnant women. It is essential to seek treatment at a reputable medical institution where a doctor can diagnose and provide a treatment plan. During pregnancy, it is recommended to consume more black-colored foods such as black rice, black beans, black sesame, wood ear mushrooms, and mushrooms, while avoiding consuming too much vitamin C-rich food like strawberries, oranges, tomatoes, pineapples, and mangoes.