Definition:
Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition characterized by red, raised, itchy welts that may vary in size and shape. These welts can appear anywhere on the body and may come and go over hours or days.

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Causes of Urticaria

1. Allergic Reactions:
   • Food allergens: Nuts, shellfish, eggs, dairy, etc.
   • Medications: NSAIDs, antibiotics (penicillin), etc.
   • Insect stings or bites.
2. Physical Triggers:
   • Heat, cold, sunlight, or water.
   • Pressure or friction on the skin.
3. Infections:
   • Viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections.
4. Chronic Autoimmune Urticaria:
   • May involve the immune system attacking healthy tissues.
5. Idiopathic (Unknown Cause):
   • No identifiable reason.

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Symptoms

• Red or skin-colored welts with defined edges.
• Intense itching.
• Swelling (angioedema), especially around the eyes, lips, hands, and feet.
• Symptoms may worsen with scratching or stress.

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Types of Urticaria

1. Acute Urticaria: Lasts less than six weeks.
2. Chronic Urticaria: Persists for more than six weeks.
3. Physical Urticaria: Triggered by physical factors (e.g., cold, pressure).

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Treatment Options

1. General Measures

• Avoid known triggers (food, drugs, environmental factors).
• Wear loose-fitting clothes to reduce irritation.

2. Medications

• Antihistamines (First-line treatment):
  • Loratadine, Cetirizine, Fexofenadine (non-drowsy options).
  • Diphenhydramine or Hydroxyzine (may cause drowsiness).
  • Dosage: Follow the recommended daily dosage or as prescribed by a physician.
• Corticosteroids:
  • Prednisone (short-term use for severe symptoms).
• Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists:
  • Montelukast (useful in combination with antihistamines).
• Epinephrine (Adrenaline):
  • For severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis.
• Immune Modulators (For Chronic Cases):
  • Omalizumab (monoclonal antibody therapy).

3. Home Remedies

• Cold compresses: Reduce itching and swelling.
• Oatmeal baths: Soothe irritated skin.
• Calamine lotion: Relieve itching.

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When to Seek Medical Attention

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing (potential anaphylaxis).
• Persistent or worsening symptoms despite treatment.
• Chronic urticaria affecting quality of life.