Urticaria
Definition
Urticaria is a skin condition that causes hives,a stinging, tickling or burning sensation in areas of your skin. A symptom of urticaria is pruritus which is characterised by itchy skin and rashes.
Symptoms
-Raised area of the skin
-Swelling of affected body part
-Reddening of the skin part that is affected.
-Intense urge to itch.
- Some food (especially peanuts, eggs, nuts and shellfish)
- Medications, such as antibiotics (especially penicillin and sulphur), aspirin and ibuprofen
- Insect stings or bites
- Physical stimuli, such as pressure, cold, heat, exercise or sun exposure
- Latex
- Blood transfusions
- Bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections and strep throat.
- Viral infections, including the common cold, infectious mononucleosis and hepatitis
Diagnosis
Unless the trigger for the reaction is well known eg reaction to food or pollen, then a medical professional is required to conduct blood tests in order to distinguish the cause to prevent future reaction that could be fatal eg Anaphylactic shock which is a life-threatening allergic reaction.
Management and Treatment
- Foods: Don’t eat foods that have been identified to cause the symptoms.
- Rubbing or scratching: Avoid harsh soaps. Frequent baths may reduce itching ensuring the hives don’t feel worse.
- Constant pressure: Avoid tight clothing. Pressure hives can be relieved by wearing loose-fitting clothes.
- Temperature: If you develop hives when exposed to cold, do not swim alone in cold water and always carry an epinephrine auto-injector. Avoid exposure to cold air and use a scarf around your nose and mouth in cold weather. If you must be out in the cold, wear warm clothing.
- Sun exposure: Wear protective clothing; apply sunblock.
- Medications: Notify your physician or pharmacist immediately if you suspect that a specific medication is causing your hives.
- Medications: Over the counter antihistamines and creams can be used to relieve the urge to itch and sooth the skin.
Conclusion
While urticaria can often be managed with OTC medication, trigger avoidance, and home remedies, persistent or worsening symptoms require prompt medical attention to prevent further complications.
