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Call Us+91 92688 80303Urticaria or Hives are raised, red, itchy rashes over the skin. They can be induced by various factors, like contact with an allergen, physical triggers like pressure generated by tight clothing, an inherent health problem, etc. In medical terms, this red, itchy skin rash has been given the name 'urticaria'.
Hives affect almost 20% of people, and it can present either in chronic or acute form. Hence, depending on the duration of urticaria, the condition has been divided into two types:
Acute Urticaria lasts over six weeks or less and results from exposure to allergens, such as certain food items, drugs, or contact with an allergen.
Chronic Urticaria lasts for more than six weeks. Detecting the trigger is often difficult in cases of chronic urticaria. It has been known to be associated with chronic autoimmune conditions such as thyroid disorders. Additionally, certain physical triggers, such as cold and vibration, can induce hives in susceptible individuals.
Urticaria or hives develop as a reaction to the following causes:
One can develop Hives when the body comes in contact with an allergen to which an individual is sensitized. Thus,on contact with the known trigger, the body releases a protein named histamine, which leads to the development of wheals/hives/urticaria.
These allergens could be food, drugs, dust and animal dander, insect bites, creams and medicines applied to the body, and they vary from person to person.
Some health conditions tend to cause hives on the human skin, and these health condition includes the following:
A lot of times, triggers cannot be identified and such cases are termed as spontaneous or idiopathic urticaria.
In some cases, Urticaria can accompany a risky and threatening condition known as anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic condition that impacts the whole body as well as internal organs. This can appear as difficulty in breathing and sometimes, loss of consciousness. This medical emergency is fatal if the person delays their treatment.
Angioedema- a swelling of the deeper layers of the skin presenting as swelling around eyes and lips.
Urticaria, in itself, because of the associated itching and frequent hives, can be distressing for patients, affecting their well-being.
Patients with severe Urticaria and angioedema, must be mindful of the signs of an anaphylactic reaction. Here are a few signs to watch out for:
The doctor can determine whether the patient has hives by history and examination of the skin. Allergy testing might help a few patients figure out what's causing the reaction. Allergy testing includes the following:
The best way for treating this Urticaria is to avoid the trigger once it is identified.Here are some treatment options commonly used-
Hives aren't a severe concern for most people, and allergies that produce hives can be managed well with effective treatment.
Anaphylaxis of the airways & lungs can occur in certain persons with angioedema. To manage serious allergic responses, individuals with this condition might need to carry injectable epinephrine with the advice of a doctor.
Reviewed By Dr. Pallavi Singh, Visiting Consultant - Dermatologist and Aesthetic physician on 24 May 2024.
Max Healthcare is home to 5000 eminent doctors in the world, most of whom are pioneers in their respective fields. Additionally, they are renowned for developing innovative and revolutionary clinical procedures.
Max Healthcare is home to 5000 eminent doctors in the world, most of whom are pioneers in their respective fields. Additionally, they are renowned for developing innovative and revolutionary clinical procedures.
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