If one had red or skin-colored lumps that emerged quickly, it’s doubtful that one had common bug bites. Urticaria, also known as hives, could cause a skin rash; the itching from these hives can range from minor to severe. Urticaria affects around 20% of the population at some point in their lives. Scratching, consumption of alcohol, exercise, and psychological pressure can all aggravate the condition.

Based on references from the expert dermatologist Dr. Nivedita Dadu, this blog will address the causes of urticaria and the top treatments for treating it efficiently. The doctor is the founder of Skinology Clinic, a renowned skin clinic providing effective Urticaria Treatment In Delhi. Continue reading to gain insights. 

Causes of Urticaria

Depending on the duration of the hives, urticaria is characterized as acute or chronic. Acute urticaria usually lasts up to 6 weeks; however, chronic urticaria may last over 6 weeks. 

• Acute Urticaria– Allergic responses to food, medicine, cosmetics, or soap, infections, insect bites or stings, environmental pollution, latex, severe temperatures, emotional stress, and exercise are the most prevalent causes of acute urticaria. 
• Chronic Urticaria– The etiology of chronic urticaria is frequently difficult; the cause is hard to determine. In some situations, it might be connected to immune system problems or diseases such as hepatitis.

Factors Triggering Hives or Urticaria

Varied factors or substances can trigger urticaria or hives, or they can result from other conditions. Some of them are listed below:

• Stress
• Allergy to certain food products
• Allergies from animal dander or pollens
• Autoimmune disease
• Bacterial, fungal, or viral infection
• An extreme change in temperature
• Hormonal fluctuations like thyroid
• Allergic reactions to certain plants/animals can lead to hives

How are Hives Diagnosed?

By examining the skin, the doctor can identify hives and angioedema. Allergy testing can assist in identifying what is causing a reaction. However, this is mostly true for acute hives. Knowing the cause can assist one in avoiding allergens and the hives accompanying them. The following allergy tests can be used to identify hives:

• Skin Examinations: During this test, the doctor will apply various allergens to the patient’s skin. If the skin becomes red or swollen, one is allergic to that substance. A skin prick or scratch test is another name for this allergy test. Skin testing is rarely performed for chronic hives.
• Blood Test: A blood test looks for specific antibodies in the blood. To combat allergies, the body produces antibodies. Hives and swelling might occur if the body produces too many antibodies.

Top Treatments for Treating Urticaria

Urticaria can be confused with other skin disorders that have a similar appearance. Conversely, a dermatologist can help identify and diagnose the condition based on the symptoms, medical history, and skin examination. Moreover, after confirmation of urticaria, the skin expert will suggest a suitable treatment. Some of the best treatments available to treat Urticaria are as follows- 

Read More...