Understanding Urticaria
Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin reaction that causes raised, itchy welts (wheals) on the skin. It can be acute (lasting less than 6 weeks) or chronic (lasting more than 6 weeks). Hives can be triggered by allergies, infections, stress, medications, or sometimes have no identifiable cause. At Dermacian Jaipur, our dermatologists diagnose the underlying cause and provide effective treatment to control symptoms.
Signs & Symptoms
Causes & Risk Factors
Allergic reactions — food (nuts, shellfish, eggs), medications, insect bites
Infections — viral infections (common in children), bacterial infections, parasitic infections
Medications — antibiotics (penicillin), NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen), blood pressure medications
Physical triggers — pressure, cold, heat, sunlight, water, exercise
Stress — emotional or physical stress can trigger hives
Autoimmune conditions — thyroid disorders, lupus
Contact allergens — latex, plants, animal dander, cosmetics
Idiopathic — in many chronic cases, no specific cause is identified
When to See a Dermatologist
- Hives are accompanied by difficulty breathing or throat swelling (emergency)
- Hives persist for more than a few days
- You have chronic hives lasting more than 6 weeks
- Hives are severe, widespread, or interfering with sleep and daily activities
- You develop hives after starting a new medication
- Hives are accompanied by fever, joint pain, or other systemic symptoms
Treatment Options at Dermacian
Antihistamines
First-line treatment. Non-drowsy second-generation antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine) control itching and reduce hives. May need higher doses for chronic cases.
H2 Blockers
Medications like ranitidine or famotidine that work alongside antihistamines for improved symptom control in resistant cases.
Oral Corticosteroids
Short courses for severe, acute flare-ups. Not recommended for long-term use due to side effects.
Omalizumab (Biologic)
Injectable medication for chronic spontaneous urticaria that doesn’t respond to antihistamines. Highly effective with monthly injections.
Cyclosporine
Immunosuppressant medication for severe, treatment-resistant chronic urticaria. Used under close medical monitoring.
Trigger Identification
Detailed history, allergy testing, and sometimes elimination diets to identify and avoid specific triggers.
Prevention & Management Tips
Doctor's Note
"Urticaria can be triggered by food, medications, infections, or stress. Identifying and avoiding triggers is key."
— Dr. Vivek Rungta, Dermatologist & Hair Transplant Specialist