Urticaria: causes, symptoms and treatment

The main cause of hives is through an allergic reaction . When this takes place, the body reacts through the immune system, the one in charge of defending us against diseases. In this case, the immune system makes the antibodies bind to the allergen that has invaded our body. The antibody that plays a major role in hives and most allergies is immunoglobulin E. This involves the activation of 2 primordial cells that release histamine into the bloodstream, causing itching and swelling.

The types of urticaria according to evolution are the following:

• Acute urticaria. The duration of symptoms is less than 6 weeks.
• Chronic urticaria. Lesions remain for more than 6 weeks.
• Intermittent hives

In general, when an acute urticaria occurs, the one that usually disappears in a few hours, is usually related to foods such as:

• Seafood.
• Fish.
• Egg.
• Dairy products such as: milk, cheese, yogurt.
• Chocolate.
• Gluten-containing foods.
• Nuts or other dried fruits.

However, the main cause of hives are certain medications such as penicillin and other antibiotics, aspirin, among others.

Hives can occur in the following situations:

• Person who when he comes into contact with an element that causes him allergy, suffers the release in his body of the substances that cause hives. This takes place in the case of food, medicines, some materials such as latex and insect bites.
• Respiratory or gastrointestinal infections, very common in children.
• By some bacteria, food chemicals or blood transfusions.
• As a reaction to cold temperatures, by rubbing, contact with sunlight or while doing sports.

The most frequent signs that indicate that we may suffer from this allergic reaction are the following:

• Edema: swelling in some area of ​​the skin’s surface.
• Pruritus: itching, which can vary in intensity.
• Erythema: redness of the affected skin area.

It is also possible that the condition occurs in the mucous membranes and the dermis, one of the layers that makes up the skin. In this case it is angioedema , which occurs under the surface of the skin.

Other symptoms of hives can be:

• Fever.
• Low tension.
• Joint pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain.

Now that we know the causes that cause urticaria and the symptoms related to it, we will know the treatments that can be carried out. If once we detect hives on our skin, we can find out which element has been the cause, we can avoid contact with it and the allergic reaction will most likely disappear in a few hours. During this period, it is advisable not to take hot water baths and wear tight clothing to avoid intensifying the hives or causing more discomfort.

The treatment par excellence of hives are antihistamines , which fight the release of histamine, which causes hives. Some may cause drowsiness. On the other hand, if it is detected that the condition is serious, affecting breathing or that angioedema exists, the patient is treated with corticosteroids (Urbason) in order to combat it. The use of adrenaline or steraids may also be required in cases where, for example, inflammation in the throat occurs with the risk of obstructing the airways.

If you have detected that you suffer from hives and want to try some easy remedies to combat it, you can take the following actions:

• Shower in cold water to reduce swelling, or apply a cold washcloth to the affected surface (s).
• Avoid activities that involve sweating, otherwise you will increase irritation.
• Do not wear tight clothing in order to avoid chafing.
• Apply diluted vinegar . Vinegar has an acid touch, so it can ease irritation. You can take a piece of cotton and soak it in vinegar to apply it on the skin.
• Take an infusion . Sometimes stress is linked to hives. An infusion can help calm you and also soothe hives.
• Aloe vera . This plant is known for its many properties. In the case of urticaria, it will relieve itching and reduce reddish areas. You just have to apply aloe vera gel on the affected surface.

This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.

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