Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is an outbreak of inflated, pale red bumps or plaques or wheals on the skin that appear suddenly. It can either occur as a result of the body’s automatic response to certain allergy causing agents.
This itchy skin condition is also known as weals, or nettle rash. Anytime, an allergic reaction is encountered, the human body releases a protein known as histamine. When this protein is released, the tiny blood vessels known as capillaries ooze out a fluid. The fluid then accumulates in the skin and causes a rash. Hives are a common skin condition but it is not contagious.
Hives are usually characterized by redness and itching but it may also give a burning or stinging sensation. Hives or Urticaria can appear anywhere on the body.
The most commonly affected sites are:
- Face
- Lips
- Tongue
- Throat
- Ears
These red bumps can change its size and even shape. They can appear anywhere on your skin. They can range from mild or severe in intensity and lasts from a few minutes to even a few days in some patients. Hives differ in size and tend to join together to target a larger area of the body known as plaques.
Types of Hives/Urticaria
The red bumpy hives can vary in size and intensity. There are mainly two types of hives namely-
- Acute Urticaria
- Chronic Urticaria
Acute Urticaria is the most commonly occurring type of hives. Its symptoms last less than 6 weeks time and can affect any part of the body. The usually targeted areas are the face and neck, fingers, toes, and the genitals of males.
If Urticaria is prolonged for more than 6 weeks, then it is termed as Chronic urticaria. It is not very common, and only about 1 in every 1,000 people are expected to experience chronic urticaria.
Angioedema is another skin condition similar to hives. It affects the deeper layers of the skin, involving mucosa and soft tissue. To know more about various causes and cost of Urticaria treatment visit Singhania Skin Clinic.
Some common triggering causes of Urticaria
The exact causing factor of hives/urticaria is unknown. Most doctors often associate it with the immune system. There are evidences that show viruses can also trigger hives. In some cases, it is related to an underlying autoimmune disorder, such as thyroid disease or lupus.
Some of the most common triggering causes are
- Medications like antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Food items like nuts, shellfish, food, eggs, and wheat products.
- Bacterial infections, common cold, and hepatitis B
- Intestinal parasites
- Extreme temperatures or rapid changes in temperature
- Dust mites
- Cockroaches
- Latex
- Pollen
- Plants, including nettles, poison ivy, and poison oak
- Insect bites and stings
- Some chemicals
- Chronic illness, such as thyroid disease or lupus
- Excessive sunlight exposure
- Scratching
- Exercise
The exact cause of hives is still unknown but it is always better to consult a skin specialist and take immediate action against the condition. If left unattended, this may lead to severe conditions. Get the best Urticaria treatment in Raipur at Singhania Skin and see visible results. Our clinic is equipped with all kinds of medical facilities and is supported by excellent medical professionals.
