At any time have you suffered from red bumps like rashes with itching? These rashes are known as urticaria or hives.
They can appear anywhere in your body.
But why does this urticaria happen?
- This can happen due to infection or allergy.
- Some foods like eggs, nuts, and seafood can cause hives.
- As well as few medicines like aspirin or some antibiotics can cause it.
- Sunlight and insect stings also may be the one of the reasons behind hives.
- Excessive sweating
These allergens release chemicals called histamine, which leads to skin irritation, itching and rashes.
Some health conditions can cause hives
- Autoimmune hypothyroid
- Autoimmune diseases like Rheumatoid arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Sjogren’s syndrome.
- Viral infection like fever, cough and cold
- Bacterial infection like urinary tract infection
Symptoms
- Bumpy lesions anywhere in the body.
- It may be red or pink in color.
- Itching and burning sensation in it.
- It can vary in size.
- If you press the middle on the lesion color may turn pale.
Types
Acute Urticaria – Rashes last for less than 6 weeks. They may occur due to food, medicine or insect bites.
Chronic Urticaria – These rashes may last more than 6 months. And can cause chronic infection or autoimmune diseases.
Physical Urticaria – These may trigger after exposure to extreme cold or hot weather. Only exposed body parts get rashes. Rashes may occur mostly after 1 hour of exposure.
Diagnosis
Clinical examination and history is most important for proper diagnosis.
Dermatologists may advise you on a few blood investigations, and if necessary, they may recommend a skin biopsy.
Treatment
Dermatologists may be prescribed antihistamines.
Preventive Measures
- Prevent yourself from excessive heat, and cold.
- Use moisturiser to prevent itching due to dry skin.
- Use mild soap.
- Avoid hot water baths; instead, use lukewarm water.
- Wear loose clothes.
- Maintain proper ventilation in your home.
Urticaria can be easily treated with antihistamines, but only after your dermatologist’s recommendation.
Don’t ignore urticaria; chronic urticaria may lead to autoimmune conditions.