What is urticaria?
Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition characterised by superficial red, itchy swellings (wheals) that appear suddenly and usually fade within a few minutes to 24 hours. The condition can be:
- Acute: lasting less than 6 weeks
- Chronic: persisting or recurring for more than 6 weeks
These itchy swellings occur when histamine — a chemical released by the body — causes small blood vessels in the skin to leak, leading to redness and puffiness. Any area of the body can be affected, and while individual hives may disappear within a day, new ones may continue to appear elsewhere.
What Causes Urticaria?
In many cases, the exact cause is unknown, but common triggers include:
Allergic Reactions to:
- Foods such as nuts, eggs, shellfish, and certain additives — even those previously well tolerated.
- Insect bites or stings
- Medications such as penicillin, aspirin, and some painkillers
Other Possible Causes:
- Viral infections
- Contact allergies to chemicals, latex, cosmetics, or plants
- Physical stimuli such as pressure, cold, heat, sunlight, or exercise
Is It Dangerous?
Urticaria is usually harmless, but in rare cases, it may be accompanied by swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, which can cause difficulty breathing
⚠️ Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience throat tightness or shortness of breath.
What Tests Might Be Needed?
Diagnosis is often made based on your medical history and the appearance of the hives. It’s helpful to take a photo when the rash appears.
In most cases, no specific cause is identified. However:
- A food diary may help detect possible dietary triggers.
- If an allergic reaction is suspected, your doctor may order allergy tests such as RAST (blood test) or a skin prick test.
- For chronic urticaria, blood tests may be performed to rule out underlying conditions like thyroid disease or infections.
Treatment Options
Speak to your dermatologist to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your condition.