Urticaria
An Introduction to Urticaria
Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is an allergic skin condition characterized by raised, itchy welts on the skin. These welts, or wheals, can vary in size and shape, often appear suddenly and may change location rapidly. Urticaria typically results from the body’s immune response releasing histamines and other chemicals in response to allergens, medications, infections or other triggers. There are two main types of urticaria: acute and chronic urticaria. Acute urticaria lasts for a short period, usually a few hours to a few days, and is often caused by specific triggers, such as certain foods, medications, insect stings or infections. Chronic urticaria can persist for more than 6 weeks. Identifying its cause can be more challenging than for acute urticaria; this type of urticaria may be linked to autoimmune factors, underlying medical conditions or other triggers. Symptoms of urticaria include itching, redness and the appearance of pale or red welts on the skin. Angioedema, which involves swelling beneath the skin, may occur in some cases. The management of urticaria involves identifying and avoiding triggers whenever possible. Antihistamines are commonly used to relieve itching and reduce the severity of symptoms. For chronic urticaria, additional medications or treatments may be needed to manage the condition. In cases of severe allergic reactions or angioedema, medical attention and epinephrine may be required. While it can be uncomfortable and distressing, urticaria can be effectively managed with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments in most cases.
