Chronic urticaria is a common allergic skin disease of unclear etiology. Clinically, this pathology is manifested by itching and a rash that does not go away for a month and a half or more.
Blisters have clear boundaries, their size varies from a few millimeters to several centimeters. A characteristic feature is the regular renewal of rashes. The quality of life of the patient with this disease significantly deteriorates. Constant itching leads to discomfort, sleep disorders, and becomes the cause of the development of disorders of the nervous system. Diagnosis is made on the basis of the collected anamnesis, clinical picture, data from laboratory tests. Treatment is medication. The basis of therapy is the use of antihistamines.
Causes of chronic urticaria
The exact causes of this form of the disease are unknown. There are a number of factors that can provoke the development of the disease.
These include:
- chronic stress, constant nervous tension;
- helminthiasis of various origins;
- increased physical exertion;
- insect bites;
- alcohol consumption;
- fungal, viral, bacterial infections;
- tight clothing made of synthetics;
- uncontrolled use of certain medications;
- physical factors (cold, heat, solar radiation) and a number of others.
Scientists have found that some highly allergenic foods (nuts, eggs, seafood), while not being direct allergens for the patient, can provoke the development of urticaria.
Symptoms
The clinical picture may be of varying degrees of severity, but in all cases, itchy blisters are formed on the patient’s skin. The skin around the rashes is swollen, the elements have clearly delineated borders. The color of the blisters is from purple to pink, the size can also be different.
Periodically new elements are formed, which over time occupy increasingly large areas of the body. The rash may merge. The opening begins at the center of the blister.
Itching forces the patient to scratch the lesions, which often leads to the attachment of secondary infection. Quality of life deteriorates, itching causes insomnia. The patient becomes irritable, nervous breakdowns occur.
Rashes give a person aesthetic discomfort and force him to lead a more closed lifestyle. Depending on the severity of the lesion, the patient may experience symptoms such as headaches, general weakness, lethargy, chills, fever, chronic stress, dyspepsia.
Treatment of acute and chronic urticaria
First of all, it is necessary to identify and eliminate all the factors that may have caused the allergy. In the case of chronic urticaria, when the allergen can not be identified, it is necessary to undergo a more detailed examination by appropriate specialists (gastroenterologist, rheumatologist, dermatologist, otolaryngologist, infectious diseases, etc.) and begin treatment of associated diseases.
To treat urticaria, the patient is prescribed:
- Antihistamines;
- Corticosteroids (for the treatment of the most severe forms of the disease);
- Aerosols, antipruritic ointments;
- Special diet, which excludes from the diet of foods that cause allergies.
Tips from doctors
Avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and drinking alcohol to avoid hives. Avoid hot showers and tight clothing that rubs or squeezes your skin. Get adequate sleep.
Chronic urticaria is rarely associated with food allergies, but if you notice that eating certain foods triggers rashes, try to avoid eating those foods.
Additional measures for chronic urticaria
One of the key factors contributing to chronic urticaria is stress. Therefore, it is important to learn how to manage your emotional state and minimize your stress levels. Techniques such as meditation, yoga, breathing practices and relaxation are recommended. Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, can help manage chronic stress and improve the patient’s psycho-emotional state. In some cases, therapists or psychiatrists may prescribe antidepressants or anxiolytics if stress or anxiety becomes too severe.
Prevention and symptom control
In addition to medication, it is important to monitor the condition of the skin and follow preventive measures to avoid worsening the situation. Patients are advised to:
- Follow a hypoallergenic diet. A diet for chronic urticaria often excludes foods such as citrus fruits, nuts, dairy products, chocolate, spices and foods with preservatives. Even if the exact cause of the allergy is not identified, dietary restrictions can significantly reduce the number of exacerbations.
- Regular skin care. Using mild cleansers, moisturizing creams and lotions can help reduce itching and prevent dry skin. Choosing hypoallergenic products is especially important to avoid additional irritation.
- Temperature and environmental control. Given that physical factors such as temperature and humidity can trigger hives to worsen, you should avoid prolonged exposure to hot temperatures (such as hot showers or baths) as well as excessive cold. Wear clothes made of natural fabrics, such as cotton, which do not cause skin irritation.
- Proper sleep patterns. Getting regular, adequate sleep is an important part of treatment. Chronic urticaria can worsen due to lack of sleep, which further contributes to stress and irritability. Strive to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Physical activity. Although physical activity can be a trigger for exacerbations, moderate exercise, such as walking outdoors or practicing yoga, can help maintain health and improve circulation. It is important to avoid excessive and intense exercise.
Conclusion
Chronic urticaria can severely affect a person’s quality of life, causing discomfort, sleep issues, and emotional stress. While its exact causes are unclear, managing triggers such as stress, infections, certain foods, and physical factors is key. Treatment mainly involves antihistamines and corticosteroids for severe cases, along with addressing underlying health issues. In addition to medication, lifestyle changes like a hypoallergenic diet, stress management, proper skin care, and adequate sleep can help control symptoms and prevent flare-ups. With the right treatment plan, patients can improve their quality of life and reduce outbreaks.
