Urticaria

What is Urticaria?

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition characterized by raised, pale-colored, itchy, and sometimes painful, red welts (wheals) on the skin. It is a common and often temporary disorder that affects as many as one in five people, at some point in their lives. It is caused by the release of histamine and other chemicals from the cells of the affected skin. Hives usually appear as an allergic reaction to a trigger, such as food, medications, or other allergens.

The condition can be acute or chronic. Acute urticaria is a reaction that typically disappears within a few hours, or up to 24-48 hours. On the other hand, chronic urticaria is a long-term skin condition that can last for over 6 weeks. Both types of urticaria are monitored and treated in such a way that they become controllable.

What Common Triggers Lead to Urticaria?

Often known as “urticaria triggers,” the following events are triggers that can trigger urticaria and its underlying symptoms:

• Allergens, which are anything that causes a person to have an allergic reaction, such as pet dander or latex.
• Weather changes, extreme temperatures or humidity.
• Emotional stress and panic attacks.
• Certain food, such as shellfish, eggs, and nuts.
• Insect bites.
• Medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin.
• Pollutants and other environmental toxins.

Treatments for Urticaria

The goal of treating urticaria is to manage the symptoms and to avoid potential triggers. Treatment choices usually depend on the type and severity of the condition. Mild cases of urticaria may go away on their own. For more severe cases, treatment may involve medications, such as antihistamines, steroids, and immunomodulators. In some cases, other treatments such as light therapy, exercise or relaxation may help to reduce symptoms.

It is important to note that urticaria is usually a temporary condition and can be managed with the right treatment. If you have any concerns regarding urticaria, it is best to speak to a doctor to ensure that you receive the right treatment.