Urticaria Treatment in Gurgaon

Urticaria is a very common disease. The disease can cause transient itchy red/ pale swellings and usually any individual spot clears within 6-24 hours. Both are caused by the release of histamine from cells in the skin called mast cells in the body.

In 50% of the population the condition follows a self limiting course of 6-12 months.

Hives are caused by the release of histamine from cells in the skin called mast cells in the body.

The commonest type is Ordinary urticaria. In this type no cause/ trigger is usually identified Intercurrent infections and medicines are common culprits. Auto-immune mechanisms also play a role in several cases.

Clinical examination is usually sufficient for a dermatologist to diagnose urticaria. In most of the cases no cause can be found. However if a dermatologist suspects a triggering factor, a prick test or a blood test may be carried out.

The main symptom of urticaria is itchy, red, raised lesions all over the body. This may be associated with localised swelling of the face/lips (ANGIOEDEMA). Although urticaria can be a troubling condition, it generally does not cause any grave complications. However, angioedema may lead to swelling in the tongue/ throat and may lead to breathing difficulties. This is a life threatening emergency and any sign of breathing difficulty should prompt an immediate medical attention.

No, Ordinary urticaria cannot be transmitted from person to person.

Most of the treatments for urticarial control the symptoms rather than cure it. In 50% of the population the condition follows a self limiting course of 6-12 months.

Antihistamines form the mainstay of therapy as they block the effect of histamine, and control the itching. Depending upon the severity and frequency of episodes, these anti-histamines may have to be continued for a long duration. Drowsiness is a common side-effect, however the newer generation antihistamines are less sedating.

If Urticaria does not respond to conventional antihistamines, other medicines like Montelukast or Oral steroids can be used.

medicines i.e. Biologicals like Omalizumab are now available for treatment of resistant Autoimmune Urticaria.

In case of Angioedema causing breathing difficulty, adrenaline may have to be administered.

No. As mentioned earlier, Urticaria usually follows a self-limiting course. Medication helps in providing symptomatic relief.

You can use calamine lotion. It provides a soothing effect to the skin. Also an Anti-histamine tablet would help.