Skin discoloration is a common skin problem not usually indicative of a serious medical condition. The sudden appearance of white spots on your skin can be frightening if you are unsure about the cause. An Internet search of your symptoms often results in unnecessary fear and anxiety. Before you panic, visit FastMed Urgent Care, where we strive to provide quality medical care with compassion. We will work to determine the cause of the white spots on your skin and provide you with the proper treatment options.
Why Are There White Spots on My Skin? FastMed Has the Answer
There are many conditions that can cause white spots on the skin, but the most common is vitiligo. About 1 to 2 million people in the United States are affected by it. Vitiligo is a disease characterized by white blotches on the skin caused by a loss of skin pigment. This condition can affect any part of the body from the inside of the mouth to the bottom of your feet. Here are a few common signs of vitiligo:
- Skin discoloration
- Premature whitening or graying of the hair on your head or facial hair (typically before age 35)
- Loss of or change in color of the retina
- Discolored patches around the armpits, navel, genitals, and rectum
There is not a known way to prevent or cure vitiligo, but there are treatment methods that can improve the appearance of affected skin. If you or your child have white spots on your skin, consult a doctor as soon as you can. Your doctor will be able to determine whether the white spots on your skin are caused by vitiligo or something else.
If you are concerned about white spots on your skin, stop by a FastMed Urgent Care location near you.