Urticaria is a skin condition characterized by itching, redness, and swelling of the skin. It typically occurs as a result of allergic reactions. It can be triggered by the body's response to foods, medications, insect bites, or contact with substances. Symptoms include red spots on the skin, swelling, itching, and a burning sensation. Treatment options include antihistamine medications, corticosteroid creams, and avoiding allergens. Reducing stress, maintaining a healthy diet, and exercising regularly can also help. If complaints persist, a doctor should be consulted.
What is Urticaria (Hives)?
Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition characterized by red and itchy welts that appear on the skin. The size of the welts can vary and sometimes spread over large areas.
Hives are categorized into acute and chronic types:
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Acute Urticaria: Symptoms last for less than 6 weeks.
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Chronic Urticaria: Symptoms last for more than 6 weeks and may recur.
Acute Urticaria
Acute urticaria is a short-term and sudden skin reaction. Symptoms usually last between several hours to a few days and do not exceed 6 weeks in total.
Symptoms:
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Sudden appearance of welts and redness on the skin.
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Intense itching.
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Centers of welts may appear pale, with red borders.
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Often resolves on its own in a short time.
Chronic Urticaria
Chronic urticaria is characterized by a rash and itching that lasts longer than 6 weeks or recurs in attacks. The cause of chronic urticaria is often undetermined and is called idiopathic urticaria.
Symptoms:
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Persistent itchy rashes.
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Recurring symptoms.
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Swelling and redness of the skin.
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Risk of swelling in eyes, lips, and throat.
What Are the Symptoms of Urticaria?
Urticaria symptoms can vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:
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Sudden appearance of red or pink welts on the skin
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Severe itching
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Welts with pale centers and red borders
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Swelling of the skin
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Swelling around the lips, eyes, and tongue
Symptoms may increase during night hours or in warm environments. Intense itching can severely affect a person's sleep and daily life.
What Causes Hives?
Causes of urticaria include:
1. Allergic Reactions
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Food allergies
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Drug allergies
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Pollen, animal fur, insect bites
2. Physical Factors
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Sunlight
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Pressure or friction
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Sweating after exercise
3. Infections
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Upper respiratory tract infections
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Viral infections
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Bacterial or parasitic infections
4. Stress-Induced Urticaria
Hives induced by stress are a common occurrence. Intense anxiety, sadness, or sudden stress may trigger urticaria attacks by affecting the immune system.
5. Autoimmune Diseases
Chronic urticaria can also occur in cases where the immune system attacks its own tissues.
6. Idiopathic Factors
In some cases, no cause can be found. This type of urticaria is called idiopathic urticaria.
Stress-Induced Urticaria: Psychological Factors
Stress affects both the immune and nervous systems. People experiencing intense exam periods, work-related problems, family issues, or anxiety disorders may develop stress-induced urticaria. During stress, chemicals like cortisol and histamine increase in the body, leading to itching and rashes on the skin.
Stress-induced hives often occur in attacks and symptoms disappear when stress levels decrease.
Coping Methods and Prevention for Hives
Hives are a skin reaction resulting from the body's excessive immune response. Exposure to allergens is one of the most common causes of hives. Therefore, it is important to avoid allergens. For instance, cleaning the home and workplace to avoid exposure to allergens like dust mites, pet fur, pollen is necessary.
Stress management is also among the factors that can trigger hives. Techniques such as breathing exercises and meditation can be used to cope with daily stress. Keeping stress levels under control can help the immune system work more balanced.
Regular exercise can also help reduce the risk of hives. Exercise supports overall health and strengthens the immune system. It is recommended to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can also reduce the risk of hives. Balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption are habits that can strengthen the immune system and protect the body against diseases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Urticaria Contagious?
No, urticaria (hives) is not a contagious disease. Urticaria occurs due to the immune system, allergic reactions, or environmental factors and does not have the characteristic of transmitting from person to person. Therefore, contact with a person with urticaria does not cause the disease to spread to others.
Can Stress Cause Hives?
Yes, stress can affect the body's defense mechanisms and lead to the development of hives. Intense emotional stress can increase histamine release in the body, resulting in itchy rashes on the skin. Controlling stress can be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of hives attacks.
Does Chronic Urticaria Resolve on Its Own?
Some cases of chronic urticaria may subside over time and completely disappear. However, many patients require long-term treatment, careful monitoring, and protection from trigger factors. Specialist supervision is important in autoimmune-related cases.
Can Urticaria Be Completely Treated?
Acute urticaria often fully recovers with the right treatment and does not recur. However, chronic urticaria may require long-term treatment and monitoring depending on the underlying cause and the patient's general condition; effective treatment can greatly control the symptoms.