Itchy, Burning, Persistent — But with a Solution
Urticaria is a dermatological disease characterized by sudden, itchy, red, and raised lesions on the skin, significantly affecting quality of life. While the acute form may resolve within a few days, the chronic form can last for weeks, months, or even years. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Demet Akpolat identifies the triggering cause of urticaria and plans a personalized treatment protocol.
What causes urticaria?
Urticaria develops when histamine and other chemicals released by the body’s immune system cause increased permeability in the skin’s blood vessels. The triggering factors are quite diverse:
- Food allergies (shellfish, nuts, eggs, etc.)
- Drug reactions (to aspirin, antibiotics, etc.)
- Insect bites
- Infections (viral, bacterial)
- Stress and fatigue
- Cold, heat, or sun exposure
- Physical pressure and friction
- Autoimmune causes (chronic spontaneous urticaria)
The Difference Between Acute and Chronic Urticaria
Acute Urticaria This is a form of urticaria that lasts less than 6 weeks. It usually develops in response to an allergen or trigger and is quickly controlled with appropriate treatment.
Chronic Urticaria This is a form of urticaria that lasts longer than 6 weeks and recurs at least twice a week. The trigger may not always be identifiable; therefore, it requires comprehensive evaluation and long-term treatment management.
How does the treatment process work?
The primary goal in treating urticaria is to identify the trigger and control the symptoms.
Trigger Identification A detailed patient history, allergy tests, and blood tests, if necessary, are conducted to investigate triggering factors.
Drug Treatment Antihistamines form the cornerstone of treatment. In resistant cases, biological agents such as omalizumab or immunomodulatory therapies may be considered.
Lifestyle Recommendations Avoiding triggers, managing stress, and adjusting diet are integral parts of the treatment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hives contagious? No. Urticaria is not contagious.
Can chronic urticaria completely resolve? In the vast majority of patients with chronic urticaria, symptoms can be controlled for a long period with appropriate treatment. The course of the disease varies from person to person.
What is the difference between urticaria and angioedema? Angioedema is swelling that develops in the deep tissue layers and can accompany urticaria. It can particularly appear around the eyes, lips, and throat. Swelling in the throat requires immediate medical attention.
Is nutrition important in urticaria? If trigger foods are identified, dietary adjustments are critically important. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Demet Akpolat also provides personalized dietary recommendations throughout the treatment process.