Urticaria

Overview

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition where swollen, painful red bumps or wheals developed suddenly due to allergen or sometimes for unknown reasons. It can be confused with other skin diseases that are similar in appearance and it is usually not contagious unless the lesions are infected.

Signs and Symptoms

Hives that may disappear and reappear over a short time, Bumps are red with clear edges, Painful and itchy occasionally, Pressing the centre of the hives makes them turn white (Blanching).

Common Causes

Allergen exposure, Insect bites or stings, Physical stimuli (eg: Sun exposure, cold exposure), Latex contact, Blood transfusions, Bacterial or viral infections

Investigation Techniques

Full blood count, Allergen test

Treatment and Prevention

Apply cool compresses on affected areas, Be in a cooling room, Wear loose-fitting clothes, Avoid allergens, Antihistamines, Epinephrine or corticosteroid injection may be needed in severe cases.