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 Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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urticaria symptoms

Acute urticaria manifests as sudden severe itching of the skin, quickly followed by hives of various sizes. In severe cases, symptoms can include palpitations, restlessness, nausea, vomiting, and other signs of anaphylactic shock. Chronic urticaria is characterized by recurrent outbreaks of hives, often lasting for several months or years.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Difference between Flat Warts and Hives

Flat warts and hives are two different diseases with significant differences. First, the causes of these diseases are different. Flat warts are caused by human papillomavirus infection, while hives are related to allergies, usually caused by exposure to an allergen, and the specific cause needs to be determined through testing, with many cases having an unknown cause. Secondly, their treatment methods are also different; flat warts are often treated with lasers, cryotherapy, antivirals, etc., while hives are commonly treated with anti-allergy methods.

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Written by Zeng Hai Jiang
Pediatrics
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Do children with urticaria feel itchy?

Children's urticaria generally causes itching. It occurs when children come into contact with foods, medications, or other allergenic substances, leading to scattered or widespread red rashes. The rash may appear as wheals or might be maculopapular or urticarial in nature, generally accompanied by rashes and itching. If a child develops urticaria, topical medications can be applied, providing relief from itching and allergic reactions.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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How is urticaria best treated?

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, occurs when there is a localized swelling due to temporary increased vascular permeability of the skin and mucous membranes. It can be divided into acute urticaria and chronic urticaria. Acute urticaria often has a sudden onset. Chronic urticaria is characterized by recurrent skin lesions for more than six weeks, with episodes occurring at least twice a week, termed as chronic urticaria. The preferred treatment for acute urticaria is the use of second-generation H1 receptor antagonists with a strong sedative effect. The combination of vitamin C and calcium supplements can reduce vascular permeability and have a synergistic effect with antihistamines. For chronic urticaria, the treatment of choice is also second-generation H1 receptor antagonists. When one medication is ineffective, two to three drugs may be combined or alternated. It is also recommended to combine Chinese medicine to adjust the overall physical condition while gradually reducing the dosage of Western medicine to control the condition.

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Written by Liu Li
Pediatrics
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How long does it take for children's urticaria to heal on its own?

There are many reasons why children may develop hives, such as exposure to allergens, bacterial infection, or genetic factors. If children display symptoms of hives, parents must promptly identify the cause and treat the condition with medication based on the examination results. Normally, hives cannot heal on their own; not only are they unlikely to resolve without treatment, but they may also recur. If a child suffers from hives, it is best for parents to take them to the hospital for a detailed and comprehensive examination, and to follow the guidance of a professional doctor for safe and effective targeted treatment.