Urticaria

Urticaria

Urticaria: Everything You Need to Know

What Is Urticaria?

Urticaria (also known as hives) is a common skin rash characterised by the appearance of raised, itchy red or pink patches on the skin. These patches are often swollen with clearly defined borders and may merge to form larger areas of rash. The associated itch is usually intense, which can make sleeping or focusing on daily activities difficult.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of urticaria include:

• Raised red or pink patches (rash)
• Severe itching
• Swelling of the skin (oedema), especially around the eyes, lips and tongue
• A burning or tingling sensation

Causes

Urticaria occurs when the body releases histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream in response to a trigger. These triggers can include:

• Medicines: Such as penicillin, aspirin or some anti-epileptic medicines
• Foods: Such as nuts, eggs, milk or shellfish
• Insect stings or bites: Such as bee or wasp stings
• Infections: Such as the common cold or influenza
• Heat or sweating
• Stress
• Sun exposure

Types

There are two main types of urticaria:

• Acute urticaria: This type typically resolves within six weeks or less and is often due to exposure to a specific trigger, such as a medicine or food
• Chronic urticaria: this type lasts for more than six weeks. In some cases, doctors may be unable to determine the cause of chronic urticaria

Diagnosis

Doctors usually diagnose urticaria based on symptoms and physical examination. Blood tests or other investigations may be requested to exclude other causes of rash.

Treatment

Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and prevent future episodes. Options at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) include:

• Antihistamines: These medicines can help reduce itching and swelling
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: Such as ibuprofen or naproxen, may help relieve pain and swelling
• Corticosteroids: Oral or topical corticosteroids may be prescribed in severe cases
• Calcineurin inhibitors: Used for chronic urticaria that does not respond to other treatments

Prevention

There is no guaranteed way to prevent urticaria; however, you can reduce your risk by:

• Avoiding triggers
• Keeping cool
• Wearing loose clothing
• Managing stress

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should see a doctor if:

• You have acute urticaria that does not resolve within a few days
• You have chronic urticaria that persists for more than six weeks
• You develop swelling of the face, lips or throat
• You experience difficulty breathing
• You have fever or chills

Contact Us

For more information, please call SSMC on 800 7762 or schedule an appointment here.