Vitiligo is a condition in which the skin loses its pigment cells. It can cause white patches to appear on the skin and sometimes on the mucous membranes and the retina of the eye. If you suspect that you may have vitiligo, it is important to see a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis.
Here are some things you can do to check for vitiligo yourself:
Look for white patches on your skin: Vitiligo usually appears as white patches on the skin, but it can also cause the hair and eyebrows to turn white.
Examine your skin in natural light: Vitiligo is easier to see in natural light, so try looking at your skin in daylight or outdoors.
Check your mucous membranes: Vitiligo can also affect the mucous membranes, such as the inside of the mouth and nose. Look for any white patches on these areas.
Examine your hair: If you have vitiligo, you may notice that your hair has turned white or gray.
Check your eyes: Vitiligo can also affect the retina of the eye, causing it to lose pigment. This can be difficult to detect without an eye exam, so it is important to see a doctor if you suspect you may have vitiligo.