Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition characterized by raised, red, itchy welts or bumps that appear on the skin. These welts can vary in size and shape and may merge together to form larger areas of swelling. Urticaria can occur suddenly and may last for a few hours or persist for days, depending on the underlying cause.
Red, raised, and itchy welts or bumps on the skin
Swelling of the skin (angioedema), often around the eyes or lips
Welts that change shape or move from one area to another
Intense itching or burning sensation
Occasional warmth or tenderness in affected areas
Acute Urticaria: Lasts less than six weeks and is often triggered by an allergic reaction, infection, or certain medications.
Chronic Urticaria: Persists for more than six weeks and may not have a clear trigger. It can be associated with underlying autoimmune conditions or other health issues.
Physical Urticaria: Triggered by physical factors like heat, cold, pressure, or sunlight.
Urticaria can be triggered by a wide range of factors, including:
Allergic reactions to food, medication, or insect stings
Infections, such as viral or bacterial infections
Stress or emotional triggers
Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as heat, cold, or sunlight
Autoimmune diseases
Underlying medical conditions like thyroid disorders
In some cases, the cause of urticaria may not be immediately identifiable.
At Skinfine Clinic, we understand how uncomfortable and distressing urticaria can be. Our dermatology specialists provide personalized care and effective treatments to help alleviate symptoms and address the root cause of the condition. Whether your urticaria is acute or chronic, we have the expertise to manage your condition and improve your quality of life.
Antihistamines:
The first line of treatment for urticaria, antihistamines help control itching and reduce the size of the hives by blocking histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions.
Corticosteroids:
In more severe cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and control swelling, especially in cases of acute flare-ups.
Immunotherapy:
For chronic or recurring urticaria, immunotherapy treatments such as omalizumab (Xolair) can be effective in targeting the immune system to prevent symptoms from reoccurring.
Topical Treatments:
Soothing creams and ointments can help alleviate itching and provide comfort to affected areas of the skin.
Personalized Skin Care Plans:
Our experts will work with you to identify potential triggers and create a comprehensive management plan, including lifestyle and dietary changes, to reduce flare-ups.
Allergy Testing:
If allergies are suspected to be a cause, we offer comprehensive allergy testing to identify triggers that may be contributing to your condition.
While it may not always be possible to prevent urticaria, avoiding known triggers and following a proper treatment plan can help manage the condition. Some general tips include:
Avoiding known allergens (foods, medications, or environmental factors)
Managing stress levels through relaxation techniques or therapy
Wearing loose, comfortable clothing to avoid physical irritation
Keeping track of flare-ups to identify patterns and triggers
If you are experiencing hives or chronic urticaria, the team at Skinfine Clinic is here to help. We provide expert diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate care to help you manage your condition effectively. Don’t let urticaria disrupt your daily life—contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward clear, healthy skin.
Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance