Urticaria: Causes, Symptoms & Many More

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin response that results in itchy welts. Hives that last longer than six weeks and frequently recur over the course of months or years are referred to as chronic hives. The root reason for persistent hives is frequently unclear. 

The blisters frequently begin as itchy areas that develop into swollen, variable-sized swellings. The blisters develop and disappear randomly as the reaction progresses. Hives that last a long time can be quite unpleasant and disrupt sleep and everyday routines. Many patients find relief with anti-itch drugs (antihistamines). 

Dr. Nivedita Dadu, the best doctor for urticaria in Delhi, provides optimum care and advanced technology for treating skin and hair conditions. In this blog, she has given brief insights about urticaria, symptoms, causes and treatments. Continue reading further to know more.

Urticaria Symptoms:

• Clusters of welts (wheals) which can appear anywhere on one’s body
• Depending on the skin tone, these welts may be red, purple, or skin-colored
• Size and shape-variable, repeatedly appearing and fading welts
• Itching, or pruritus, can be extremely intense
• Angioedema a painful swelling around the lips, cheeks, or eyes
• Heat, exertion, or stress-related flares
• Symptoms that last longer than six weeks return frequently and sometimes last for months or years.

Urticaria Causes-

Hives trigger the production of immune response chemicals like histamine into the bloodstream, which results in welts. The causes of chronic hives are frequently unknown, as are the reasons why short-term hives may develop into long-term issues. The following may cause the epidermal reaction:

• Warmth or cold
• Sunlight
• Vibrations produced by activities like jogging and using lawnmowers
• Skin pressure, such as that caused by a tight waistband
• Diseases include cancer, infection, allergies, and thyroid disease

Note: One is not suddenly in danger of a severe allergic reaction if one has chronic hives (anaphylaxis). One should seek emergency attention if it becomes a severe hives allergic reaction. Dizziness, difficulty breathing, and inflammation of the mouth, lips, tongue, or neck are all signs of anaphylaxis.

Urticaria Diagnosis-

The skin doctor will probably ask about the symptoms and examine the skin to determine whether one has persistent hives. The fact that the welts appear and disappear randomly is one of the significant signs of persistent hives. One might be requested to keep a log to document:

• One’s activities
• Any prescription drugs used, herbal supplements, or
• What one consumes and absorbs
• Where hives occur, the time it takes for a welt to go away, and whether bruising or other marks are left behind
• If the hives cause excruciating swelling
• Blood tests can also be required to identify the source of the symptoms. The treatment choices will be determined by an appropriate diagnosis.

Urticaria Treatment-

Non-prescription anti-itch medications are frequently the first step in treating chronic hives (antihistamines). The doctor might advise trying one or several of the following therapies if these don’t work:

• Prescribed anti-itch medications.
• Antihistamines with no drowsiness on prescription are typically used to treat chronic hives. These medicines reduce allergic symptoms like itchiness and swelling. 
• Regular usage of these medications aids in preventing the production of histamine that causes symptoms. There are not many negative effects of these medicines. 
• The skin doctor may raise the dose or add other types of antihistamines if the non-drowsy antihistamines don’t help.
• If one is pregnant, breastfeeding has a chronic medical condition or consumes other prescriptions should see the doctor before using any of these medications.

Preventive measure-

• Avoiding triggers: Foods, pharmaceuticals, pollen, pet dander, latex, and insect bites are a few examples of them. Stop taking the medication one believes the reason and get in touch with the doctor if one still has welts. According to several studies, hives may be brought on by stress or exhaustion.
• Using non-prescribed drugs: Itching may be reduced using a non-prescription anti-itch (antihistamine) medication that doesn’t make patients sleepy.
• Applying cold compresses: Applying an ice cube or covering the irritated region with a cold cloth will help to soothe the skin.
• Applying topical creams: Use an itch-relieving ointment or lotion. For a calming effect, try a menthol-containing lotion.
• Comfortable clothing: Wear loose, cotton garments with a smooth texture. Wearing clothes that are tight, scratchy, abrasive, or made of wool is not recommended.
• Protection against the sun: Sun protection for the skin. Apply sunscreen liberally for approximately 30 minutes before heading outside. When outside, look for shade to help one feel more comfortable.
• Tracking symptoms: Maintain a symptom log. Keep a journal of the activities, meals, and other activities, as well as the times and locations of the hives. This could assist the patient and the doctor in figuring out the causes.

If anyone is experiencing the above symptoms or is unsure whether it is urticaria or something else, feel free to consult Dr. Nivedita Dadu, a leading skin specialist in Delhi at Skinology Clinic. The doctor will suggest a comprehensive treatment after a thorough examination. Book an appointment today!