Allergies - Urticaria

What are hives?

Hives also known as urticaria are transient raised red bumps or splotches on the skin and happen when your body has an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions happen when your immune system comes in contact with an allergen. Hives are often very itchy, but you might also feel burning or stinging. They can be as small as a fingertip or as big as a dinner plate. They can occur anywhere on the body including eyes, lips and oral mucosa. Hives tend to fade within 24 hours, although they may be noticeable for several days or longer.

Allergies - Urticaria

Types and Causes of hives

● Acute urticaria refers to hives that don’t last very long (less than six weeks). Acute hives are often an allergic reaction to infections such as viral fever, common cold, urinary tract infection or something you put into your body like- food, drink or medication, or something that you touch or even an insect bite reaction.

● Chronic urticaria refers to hives that happen at least twice a week for more than six weeks.Sometimes they don’t have an obvious cause. They are also seen in association with autoimmune disorders such as thyroid . There’s also a condition called physical urticaria, or inducible urticaria. These hives might pop up when you’re in the cold, heat or sun. Some people react to vibrations or pressure, exercising or sweating. Physical hives usually appear within an hour after exposure. This type of hives can also be chronic.

How are hives diagnosed?

Hives are diagnosed by their clinical appearance and sometimes blood tests are done to rule out infection or autoimmune conditions

Treatment - includes oral anti allergic medications and in severe cases oral or injectable steroids. Treating or eliminating the triggers of urticaria also helps in early resolution. Topical calamine based lotions are prescribed to soothe the skin.

Chronic urticaria usually requires a longer treatment compared to acute urticaria.

Since lips or oral mucosa swelling could be life threatening due to obstruction of airways, it is always advisable to visit a nearby emergency care for injectable medications to relieve symptoms early.

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