Ayurvedic Name: Shvitra
Description:
Shvitra, or Vitiligo, is a skin disorder resulting from Tridosha imbalance, particularly aggravated Pitta, which leads to the destruction of melanocytes and depigmentation of the skin. It results in white patches that spread gradually. Poor digestion, toxin accumulation, and improper lifestyle habits trigger this condition. Treatment focuses on detoxification, herbal pigmentation therapies, and dietary modifications to restore skin color.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Shvitra (Vitiligo): White, depigmented patches on the skin, often symmetrical in distribution.
- Kantaka (Itchy Patches): Itching or tingling sensation around the depigmented areas.
- Rukshata (Dryness): Dry, cracked skin in the affected areas due to loss of pigmentation.
- Vishama Agni (Irregular Digestion): Digestive disturbances linked to autoimmune triggers for skin depigmentation.
- Gaurava (Heaviness in the Body): Feeling of discomfort or heaviness in the affected body parts, especially in extreme cases.
- Vata Prakopa (Skin Sensitivity): Increased sensitivity to cold or sunlight in the affected areas.
Diagnosis:
Wood’s Lamp Examination
Risk Factors:
- Dietary Factors
Deficiency in nutrients like Vitamin B12, folate, and iron, which can trigger or worsen skin pigmentation disorders.
Diets high in processed or sugary foods, which can contribute to autoimmune reactions that affect skin pigmentation. - Lifestyle Factors
Sunburn or excessive sun exposure, which can trigger or worsen depigmented patches.
Stress or emotional trauma, which may trigger immune responses that affect skin pigmentation. - Medical Conditions
Autoimmune diseases like thyroid disorders or diabetes, which are commonly associated with vitiligo.
Family history of vitiligo or other skin conditions, which increases genetic susceptibility.
Complications:
- Cosmetic and Psychological Impact (Manasik Dourbalya): The visible nature of vitiligo can lead to emotional distress, social anxiety, and depression.
- Increased Risk of Skin Cancer (Twak Kshaya): Loss of pigmentation in the skin can increase the risk of sunburn and skin cancer due to reduced melanin.
- Loss of Hair (Keshapida): Vitiligo can affect hair follicles, leading to hair loss in the affected areas.
- Impaired Immune System (Pratirodh Kshaya): Vitiligo is often linked to autoimmune diseases, which can compromise overall immunity.
- Pigmentation Changes in the Eyes (Netra Vikruti): Vitiligo can cause pigmentation changes in the eyes, which may affect vision in severe cases.
Epidemeology:
More common in individuals with a family history of autoimmune diseases, as vitiligo is often associated with other autoimmune conditions.
Affects both men and women equally, but onset is usually earlier in women, often before the age of 30.
Prevalence varies by region, with an estimated 0.5-2% of the global population affected.
Higher prevalence in regions with high UV exposure (where skin pigmentation is important), especially in Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe.