Urticaria (Hives) is a skin condition marked by red, raised, itchy welts that can appear anywhere on the body. These welts usually fade within 24 hours but may recur, affecting quality of life.
Causes and Triggers:
Urticaria occurs when mast cells release histamine, leading to fluid leakage under the skin. Triggers include:
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Allergies (foods, medications, insect stings)
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Infections (viral or bacterial)
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Physical stimuli (cold, heat, pressure, sunlight)
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Stress
Types:
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Acute Urticaria: Lasts less than 6 weeks, often with a clear trigger
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Chronic Urticaria: Lasts over 6 weeks, often idiopathic or autoimmune
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Inducible Urticaria: Triggered by specific physical factors (e.g., scratching, cold)
Symptoms:
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Itchy, raised welts
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Welts that appear and disappear quickly
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Sometimes with angioedema (deep swelling, especially of lips, eyelids, or throat)
Treatment:
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Antihistamines (main treatment)
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Corticosteroids for severe cases
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Avoiding known triggers
Diagnosis is clinical, based on symptoms and history.
