Urticaria

Symptoms

The main symptoms of urticaria are itchy, red bumps or spots on the skin that vary in size and shape. This rash can appear anywhere on the body and is often accompanied by a burning or stinging sensation. Urticaria can be acute, with symptoms lasting up to six weeks, or chronic, with symptoms lasting longer than six weeks.

What makes it worse?

Several factors can worsen urticaria symptoms. This includes allergens such as food (such as peanuts, shellfish or milk), medications (such as antibiotics or aspirin), insect bites or stings, latex, pollen and dust mites. Other triggers can be physical stimuli such as heat, cold, pressure, sunlight or friction on the skin. Certain infections, stress, hormonal changes and even emotional factors can also contribute to the onset or worsening of urticaria.

What does it improve?

Although urticaria can be annoying and uncomfortable, there are some measures that can provide relief. Avoiding known allergens or triggers is an important step. Wearing loose, breathable clothing can also help reduce friction on the skin. In addition, applying cold compresses or taking antihistamines can relieve symptoms.

Risk factors

Urticaria can affect people of all ages, but certain factors can increase the risk. Allergies, such as food allergies or insect bite allergies, may play a role. In addition, a history of urticaria, angioedema (swelling of the deeper layers of the skin) or other allergic conditions may increase the risk. Some forms of urticaria may also be associated with autoimmune diseases or other underlying medical conditions.

Different forms of Urticaria

• Acute Urticaria: This form usually lasts from several hours to several days and can be caused by allergens, physical stimuli or infections.
• Chronic Urticaria: This form lasts longer than six weeks and can be a persistent or recurring condition. The exact cause is often difficult to determine, but autoimmune mechanisms are suspected.
• Physical Urticaria: This form is caused by physical stimuli such as pressure, cold, heat, sunlight or friction on the skin. Examples are pressure urticaria, cold urticaria and solar urticaria.

Regular treatment

Treatment for urticaria focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing recurrent episodes. Antihistamines are often prescribed to reduce itching and inflammation. In some cases, corticosteroids or other medications may be prescribed to treat severe symptoms. Identifying and avoiding triggers is also essential in the treatment of urticaria. In cases of chronic urticaria, it may be necessary to seek the help of a specialist, such as a dermatologist or allergist, to determine the underlying cause and devise an appropriate treatment plan.