What is Urticaria (Hives)
Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition characterized by itchy, raised welts on the skin. It can be triggered by various factors, including allergies, stress, infections, or medications.
Common Clinical Presentation
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Red or skin-colored welts (wheals) that can appear anywhere on the body
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Itching, which can be intense
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Welts that vary in size and can join together to form larger areas
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Welts that come and go, often changing shape and location within hours
Antihistamines
Over-the-counter antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or loratadine (Claritin) to reduce itching and swelling.
Avoid Triggers
Identify and avoid known triggers, such as certain foods, medications, or environmental factors.
Cool Compresses
Apply cool compresses to the affected areas to soothe itching and reduce swelling.
Loose Clothing
Wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritating the skin.
Hydration
Drink plenty of fluids to help maintain skin hydration.
Avoid Known Allergens
Stay away from substances that have previously triggered hives.
Manage Stress
Practice stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises.
Regular Medication
For chronic hives, a healthcare provider may prescribe daily antihistamines or other medications to prevent outbreaks.
What You’ll Need
You should know
If hives persist for more than a few days, or if they are accompanied by difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, or other severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately
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