What is hives? Causes, symptoms and treatment at a glance

What is hives? Causes, symptoms and treatment at a glance

What is hives? Causes, symptoms and treatment at a glance

Hives, also known as urticaria, is a skin condition characterized by the sudden appearance of itchy, raised hives on the skin. These hives are similar to the marks caused by stinging nettles, which is where the condition gets its name. Hives can occur in various forms, from acute to chronic cases. In this article, we take a detailed look at the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for hives.

Causes of hives

The exact causes of hives are often difficult to determine. In many cases, the disease is caused by an overreaction of the immune system to certain triggers. These triggers are also known as urticaria facial factors and can vary from person to person. Possible triggers are:

1. Allergies: Certain foods, medications, or insect bites can cause allergic reactions and cause hives. Common triggers include peanuts, eggs, penicillin and bee stings.

2. Infections: Sometimes an infection such as a cold or urinary tract infection can cause hives.

3. Autoimmune reactions: In some people, the immune system can produce antibodies that interact with healthy cells in the skin and cause hives.

4. Physical stimuli: Certain physical stimuli such as cold, heat, sunlight, pressure or vibration can cause hives in some people.

5. Stress: Stress can trigger or worsen a hives episode in some people.

It is important to note that these causes can vary from person to person and that not every person with hives has all of these triggers.

Symptoms of hives

The symptoms of hives manifest primarily on the skin. The raised wheals can appear in different sizes and shapes and are usually red or white. They are extremely itchy and can spread over the entire body. In addition to the hives, hives patients may also experience swelling, redness, and burning of the skin. In some cases, accompanying symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea or difficulty breathing may occur.

Hives can appear in two different forms:

1. Acute hives: This form usually lasts less than six weeks and the symptoms usually go away on their own. Acute hives can be caused by certain triggers such as allergies or infections.

2. Chronic hives: This form lasts longer than six weeks and can severely affect the daily life of those affected. The exact causes of chronic hives are often difficult to identify, but autoimmune reactions play a role in many cases.

Treatment of hives

Treatment for hives aims to relieve symptoms and prevent future outbreaks. Therapy often involves a combination of medication and avoiding the triggers.

Drug treatments for hives include:

1. Antihistamines: These medications block the effects of histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions. Antihistamines help reduce the hives and itching.

2. Corticosteroids: For severe cases of hives, corticosteroid creams or pills may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.

3. Immunosuppressants: In some cases, immunosuppressants may be prescribed to calm the immune system and reduce hives symptoms.

Additionally, it is important to identify and avoid triggers. This may mean avoiding certain foods, protecting the skin from physical stimuli, or reducing stress.

Frequently asked questions

1. Are hives contagious?

No, hives are not contagious. It is an immunological reaction of the body and cannot be transmitted from one person to another.

2. Should I see a doctor if I have hives?

Yes, it is recommended to see a doctor if you have hives symptoms. A doctor can make an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.

3. What can I do to prevent hives outbreaks?

It can be helpful to keep a journal to identify and avoid triggers. In addition, you should avoid possible allergenic substances and reduce stress to prevent breakouts of hives.

4. Can hives be cured permanently?

In most cases, the symptoms of hives can be controlled and disappear over time. However, in some people, hives can become chronic and require ongoing treatment.

Conclusion

Hives is a skin condition characterized by the sudden appearance of itchy, raised hives on the skin. The exact causes of hives are often difficult to determine, but they can range from allergies and infections to autoimmune reactions. Symptoms range from itchy hives to accompanying symptoms such as headaches and difficulty breathing. Treatment includes relieving symptoms with medications such as antihistamines and corticosteroids, as well as identifying and avoiding triggers. With the right treatment, symptoms can be controlled and the quality of life of those affected can be improved.