Diagnosis and Treatment of Urticaria

Diagnosis and Treatment of Urticaria (Hives)

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a condition characterized by the sudden appearance of itchy, red, and raised welts on the skin. While they typically resolve on their own within a short period, some cases can become chronic. The cause of urticaria can be an allergic reaction, but it can also be triggered by factors such as stress, infections, or medication use.

Types of Urticaria

1. Acute Urticaria

• Symptoms resolve in less than 6 weeks.
• It is often triggered by allergens (food, medications, insect bites).

2. Chronic Urticaria

• Symptoms persist for more than 6 weeks and are recurrent.
• The cause may not be fully identified; autoimmune reactions may play a role.

3. Physical Urticaria

• Triggered by physical stimuli such as heat, cold, pressure, or exercise.

4. Angioedema

• In addition to hives, swelling of the deeper layers of the skin (especially in the lips and eyelids) is observed.

Causes and Triggers of Urticaria

1. Allergic Reactions

Food allergies (seafood, dairy products, nuts, etc.)
Medications (antibiotics, aspirin, ibuprofen)

2. Infections

Upper respiratory infections or viral infections.

3. Stress and Psychological Factors

Stress, anxiety, and depression can trigger urticaria.

4. Physical Stimuli

Exposure to cold, heat, exercise, pressure, or sunlight.

5. Immune System Problems

Can be associated with autoimmune diseases.

6. Insect Bites

Stings from bees, mosquitoes, or other insects can trigger urticaria.

Symptoms of Urticaria

• Raised and Red Lesions: Blisters of varying sizes form on the body.
• Itching: Intense itching is common and can be uncomfortable.
• Variability of Lesions: Blisters may move or disappear within a few hours.
• Angioedema Symptoms: Sudden swellings in areas such as the lips, tongue, or around the eyes.

Diagnosis of Urticaria

• Clinical Examination: A dermatologist examines the symptoms and their distribution.
• Allergy Tests: Skin tests or blood tests are conducted if allergic reactions are suspected.
• Blood Tests: Used to investigate infections or autoimmune disorders.
• Patch Test: Identifies triggering factors in cases of physical urticaria.

Treatment Methods for Urticaria

1. Antihistamines

• Loratadine, Cetirizine, Fexofenadine: Suppress allergic reactions and relieve itching.
• H1 and H2 Receptor Blockers: Used in severe cases.

2. Corticosteroids

• Administered orally or by injection for short-term relief during acute attacks.

3. Adrenaline Injection

• Life-saving in cases of severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.

4. Immune Modulating Medications

• Omalizumab: Used for chronic and resistant cases of urticaria.
• Cyclosporine: Preferred in autoimmune-related cases.

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