About Chronic Urticaria

Urticaria appears as an inflammation on the skin that is caused by allergens. Generally they appear as red bumps that may vary in intensity, coloring and size. Most often, the condition disappears after several hours, however in some cases, Acute Urticaria may be experienced. In this case, the bumps and inflammation remains for hours or even days before clearing. The condition known as Chronic Urticaria occurs when the rash continues for more than 6 weeks.

Several environmental factors may trigger Urticaria. Some types of food tend to cause more reactions than others and those include eggs, nuts, wheat and milk. Sometimes additives within those items can trigger acute symptoms. Bugs such as bees and other stinging insects may cause an outbreak. There are also instances of the body reacting to medicines or chemicals with rashes and hives. Immune deficiencies may cause inflammation as well as day-to-day stress, exercise, experiences of sudden heat or cold.

Causes of Chronic Urticaria are often tougher to diagnose because chronic hives rarely occur as a result of an allergic reactions. Most people with Chronic Urticaria have an idiomatic (unknown) reason for their hives. Viral infections, hormonal imbalances and malignancies might be factors; however, 30-40% of people with Chronic Urticaria will be diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder.

Treatment: Cures are based around getting rid of the itch. Generally the hives will fade in time. Most often, anti-itch creams or ointments are prescribed. Oatmeal soaps or lotions may help. For information on the best remedies, a physician or pharmacist may be consulted.

Antihistamines, which counteract the effect of the histamine release, are the most commonly used oral treatments. Most antihistamines are available over the counter (OTC) without a prescription. Benadryl, Claritin, and Zyrtec are brand name medications that can be used for the treatment of hives.

In severe cases of hives, a doctor may prescribe an individual treatment plan. If this is the case, prescription antihistamines may be recommended as well as antihistamines combined with H2 blockers. Oral steroids (such as Prednisone) may also be used for short term, as their long-term use is not considered safe. In rare cases, UV radiation, antifungal antibiotics and other immunosuppressants may be considered.

Summary: Urticaria is a condition that results in a person breaking out in hives. The hives emerge as red itchy bumps of various sizes. The outbreak may last hours, days or months. Depending on the type of condition, different medications such as antihistamines and oatmeal lotions or baths may be prescribed. For long-term problems, a physician should be consulted for a stronger dose of medications.

While antihistamines are usually effective in eliminating the symptoms, the only way to avoid outbreaks in the future is to avoid the cause. Causes may include allergens in the environment or food sources. Keeping a food diary can help discover problem foods.