How is urticaria caused?

Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
Updated on September 04, 2024
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There are many causes of hives, and the most common is related to genetics. If one of the parents has an allergic constitution, then the likelihood of allergies in their offspring significantly increases. Environmental factors also play a role in the occurrence of hives. For example, environments with a lot of dust or dust mites can trigger allergic reactions. Additionally, a humid living environment can promote the growth of fungi, which can also cause hives. The occurrence of hives is also related to food. Individuals who are allergic to proteins might experience hives when consuming high-protein foods like fish, shrimp, crabs, milk, and eggs. Furthermore, viral infections, bacterial infections, and parasite infections can also trigger hives.

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Written by Li Ya Ping
Dermatology Department
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Can urticaria be contagious?

Urticaria is not contagious. Urticaria, also known as wheals or commonly referred to as hives, is caused by temporary increased vascular permeability in the skin and mucous membranes due to allergic factors, resulting in localized edema. Wheals generally subside quite quickly, typically within 24 hours. The causes of wheals, which are essentially urticaria, may include the food we eat, airborne inhalants, and skin contact with substances such as pollen, dust mites, mold mites, as well as animal dander, fur, etc. Additionally, some cases may be related to infections, and some people may have a lethal factor due to suspicious medications. Moreover, the occurrence of urticaria can also be related to other factors such as cold, heat, ultraviolet light, and mechanical stresses such as friction or pressure. Furthermore, other factors including psychological and endocrine factors can also lead to the occurrence of urticaria.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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What medicine is used for urticaria?

Urticaria primarily uses second-generation antihistamines as the first choice, and topical treatments that soothe and relieve itching can be used as appropriate. Traditional Chinese medicine often treats it with herbal decoctions based on syndrome differentiation, and specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Symptoms of postpartum urticaria

Postpartum hives are mainly characterized by subjective itching symptoms on the skin. On the surface of the skin, you can see patches of varying sizes with a reddish color, some of which may also feel burning. Generally, this can occur within the first few hours and then quickly subside, but it is prone to recurrent outbreaks. Additionally, some patients may experience gastrointestinal reactions, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and can even cause palpitations and difficulty breathing. When hives are detected, it is advisable to go to the hospital in a timely manner, and ask professional doctors to actively carry out examinations and treatments.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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How should hives be treated?

Urticaria is divided into acute and chronic types. Antihistamines are the first choice of treatment for acute urticaria. If the condition is severe and antihistamines are ineffective, corticosteroids can be used to control the condition. The fundamental treatment for chronic urticaria is to remove the cause, and specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What is the fastest way to relieve itching from hives?

Urticaria is a type of allergic disease that generally causes large areas of hives to appear rapidly all over the body, accompanied by severe itching. A quick method to relieve itching is the topical application of calamine lotion extensively and taking oral antihistamines, such as loratadine tablets. In cases of acute flare-ups, it may be appropriate to use hormone-based medications, such as dexamethasone injection, administered intravenously or through infusion, as these act quickly. For chronic urticaria treatment, it is generally advised against the use of hormones; standard oral antihistamines should suffice. Urticaria tends to recur; therefore, it's important to maintain a controlled diet and lifestyle habits. Foods and substances to avoid include chili peppers, mutton, seafood, and alcohol.