Urticaria (Hives)

Urticaria (hives) is a common disease characterized by the appearance of red, swollen and itchy lesions on the skin and disappearing within 24 hours. If these complaints last less than 6 weeks, they are called acute; if they persist for longer, they are called chronic urticaria. In some patients, urticaria attacks develop after triggering factors. These; Infections, physical factors (such as pressure, cold, sun exposure), drugs, food, increased body temperature, sweating (cholinergic urticaria) and some substances that come into contact with the skin (contact urticaria).

Findings that occur deeper in the skin, such as swelling, swelling, itching or a burning-stinging sensation, are called angioedema. It often occurs on the eyelids, lips and sometimes in the mouth. It can also be seen as itching, swelling and pain in the hands and soles of the feet. When the inside of the mouth is affected, it can cause serious symptoms such as shortness of breath and difficulty swallowing.

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, can be defined as an allergic skin rash.

What are the symptoms of urticaria/hives?

Skin symptoms of urticaria are red, hard bumps that can appear anywhere on the body. Their size is very variable, they can be 1-2 mm or in the form of plaques covering large areas. The bumps are often itchy, and the itching increases at night. The clinical picture may worsen in the evenings and during menstrual periods. In rare cases, blisters may appear on them. Lesions usually disappear within 24 hours without leaving any scars.

Urticaria - Hives Treatment

During the treatment phase, the patient should first be given detailed information about his disease. H1 antihistamines are the first line of treatment.

Conditions for success in treatment; Questioning the cause by talking to the patient is a good patient-physician relationship and a good follow-up.