What is dangerous urticaria in adults, as well as the causes of its occurrence and the main symptoms. Symptoms and treatment of urticaria, photo of the disease Disease urticaria
Hives- a group of diseases, the main symptom of which is itchy rashes, ranging in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters, rising above the surface of the skin, having a clearly defined outline.
- Urticaria has been known since the time of Hippocrates (4th century BC). For the first time, the term "urtica" in Latin - a blister, was proposed by the scientist Cullen.
- On the globe, more than 20% of the population suffers from urticaria, of which 60% is acute urticaria.
- Acute urticaria is more common in children, chronic urticaria is more common in adults.
- Chronic urticaria occurs in 30% of cases and most often in middle-aged women, while the disease is mostly familial.
- Only in 50% of cases, urticaria occurs in isolation, in 40% it occurs together with Quincke's edema.
- The cause of recurrent chronic urticaria in adults in 90% of cases remains unknown.
What causes hives, causes?
Cause | Description | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Medications | More often, allergic urticaria is caused by antibiotics (penicillins, sulfonamides, rifampicin, polymyxin, streptomycin, tetracyclines, cephalosporins, etc.) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (indomethacin, aspirin, etc.). Immune mechanism for the development of urticaria:
The following types of urticaria flow according to this mechanism: urticaria caused by food, inhalation allergens, hymenoptera venom, urticaria caused by infection, cold, solar, vibrational urticaria.
The mechanism of formation of the main element of urticaria - a blister. The main element of the manifestation of urticaria is a blister. A blister occurs as a result of swelling of the papillary dermis. Edema in the skin occurs due to the release of biologically active substances (histamine, bradykinin, etc.). These substances lead to the expansion of capillaries, an increase in the permeability of their walls for blood elements, which is manifested by the formation of a characteristic blister. Types of urticariaTypes of urticaria depending on the duration of the disease:
Dermographic urticariaDescription:
Nervous urticaria
Cold urticaria or cold allergy
In order to recognize cold urticaria, a special provocative test is performed:
solar allergyDescription: Urticaria occurs in the first minutes after exposure to the sun's rays on exposed skin. It is worth noting that a systemic development of a severe allergic reaction is possible with a sharp decrease in pressure, bronchial obstruction and loss of consciousness. However, such reactions are very rare. In most cases, solar urticaria appears on areas of the body that have been exposed to sunlight. Some drugs (tetracyclines, sulfonamides, fluoroquinolones, etc.) can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight and cause hives.Solar urticaria test:
drug urticariaEvery year the number of cases with allergic urticaria is growing. The use of drugs can cause both acute and chronic urticaria. In some cases, urticaria begins a few minutes or tens of minutes after taking the medication. In others, several days or weeks after completion of treatment. For example, urticaria may begin 2 weeks after the end of a course of penicillin.contact urticariaContact urticaria occurs when an allergen (wool, latex, various chemicals, etc.) is exposed to the skin. Rashes (blisters) appear at the site of exposure to the provoking factor.Contact urticaria test:
Urticaria symptoms, photoWhat does hives look like?
danger symptomsIt is often one of the manifestations of anaphylactic shock, and is also often combined with Quincke's edema. In this regard, if the following symptoms appear, urgent medical attention should be provided:
How to assess the severity of urticaria?Urticaria treatmentDo I need to call an ambulance?An ambulance must be called under the following circumstances:
First aid for hivesWhat can be done at the first symptoms of hives?
First you need to eliminate the effect of the allergen on the body:
Tablets, ointments and other remedies for hivesAntihistaminesIn the treatment of urticaria, antihistamines are the drugs of first choice. There are 2 generations of such drugs. Currently, preference is given to the second generation (recommendations of the World Allergy Organization). And the use of 1st generation drugs is recommended to be started only when 2nd generation drugs are not available or when they are ineffective even at maximum doses. However, the first generation of drugs is also used and has its own characteristics. Algorithm for prescribing antihistamines for urticaria:
Ointments are an aid in the treatment of allergies and are usually prescribed after the use of tablets or injections. However, in mild cases of urticaria, an ointment alone may resolve the situation. There is a wide variety of ointments for allergies. But which one to choose? To begin with, it should be said that all allergy ointments can be divided into 2 large categories: 1) ointments that do not contain hormones and 2) ointments containing hormones. The first group of ointments is safer, but not always as effective as we would like. In the second category, there are ointments with different strengths and safety. The strength of the action is determined by the hormone and its amount in the ointment. Therefore, there is a certain approach to the appointment of antiallergic ointments. At the beginning of treatment, ointments that do not contain hormones are prescribed. In the absence of effect, ointments containing a hormone with little activity are prescribed. Further ointments with a more powerful hormonal component, and so on, depending on the response to treatment. The principle is to use hormonal preparations as little as possible, and even more so ointments with a powerful hormonal component. Ideally, the attending physician should deal with the support of the ointment. Below are a few examples of ointments for hives:
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The disease is a skin pathology, which is mainly of allergic origin and is characterized by the rapid appearance of a rash on the skin.
It is accompanied by severe itching and resembles blisters.
Urticaria, the causes of which are different, can become an independent disease or a symptom of some kind of illness.
How does it manifest
The appearance of symptoms is directly affected by the type and form of the course of the disease.
However, most pathologies have common characteristic manifestations:
- rashes in the form of blisters;
- the appearance of edema on the skin;
- increase in body temperature;
- headache;
- pain in the joints;
- elevation of blisters above the surface of the skin;
- redness of rashes;
- association of blisters;
- severe itching;
- symmetrical nature of the rash;
- complete stopping of the rash;
- the appearance of rashes anywhere in the epithelium.
What is dangerous
By itself, the disease does not pose a threat to life. But with the appearance of anaphylactic shock or Quincke's edema, the prognosis becomes not so favorable.
It is very important to call an ambulance if you experience the following symptoms:
- drop in blood pressure;
- swelling of the larynx and tongue;
- breathing problems - hoarseness, hoarseness, lack of air;
- severe pain in the abdomen;
- loss of consciousness.
It is important to consider that this disease is a symptom of an internal disease, including oncological pathologies. This significantly complicates the prognosis for the patient's life.
In addition, in 30% of cases, urticaria becomes chronic.
Causes of hives
The causes of hives can be different. In order for the treatment of the disease to be as effective as possible, it is very important to identify the factors that led to its development in time.
Heredity
The disease very often occurs in those people whose closest relatives had this disease.
In the appearance of this disease, a very important role is played by the distinctive features of the reaction of the body.
If the genetic memory contains information about such reactions on the skin, then, most likely, the disease will appear.
gastrointestinal tract
One of the main reasons are various diseases of the digestive system.
For example, if the liver cannot cope with the processing of toxic substances, then permanent poisoning of the body will occur.
Under the condition of a genetic predisposition, this can cause the onset of this disease.
Another common factor in the occurrence of this disease is chronic constipation.
If they are the cause of the disease, then a few days after the elimination of this problem, the rashes on the skin will disappear.
The duration of recovery is influenced by the individual characteristics of the organism.
Hormones
One of the main causes of this disease is the imbalance of hormones.
In the origin of autoimmune pathologies, special antibodies play a role.
They are responsible for the release of histamine, which causes allergic reactions.
The main reason for the appearance of blisters on the skin is precisely histamine as one of the main components of the immune system.
Infection
Urticaria often becomes the result of pathogenic microorganisms entering the human body.
A fairly common cause of this disease is helminthic invasion.
Some doctors point to the psychosomatic nature of the disease. In this case, nervous strain provokes the appearance of rashes on the skin.
If a person has psychological problems or is constantly faced with stressful situations, there may be an active production of histamine and other substances. As a result, a rash appears on the skin.
Video: Features of the disease
Why does a particular species appear
A variety of factors can influence the appearance of a certain type of urticaria. Accurate diagnosis of the causes of the disease significantly increases the effectiveness of therapy.
allergic
This form of the disease may be the result of internal or external factors.
Upon primary contact with an allergenic substance, sensitization occurs, and upon secondary contact, an immediate type reaction occurs.
Then there is the release of immunoglobulin E, which causes degranulation of mast cells and the synthesis of mediators.
In the allergic form of the disease, medications and foodstuffs usually act as allergens.
Insect allergens also play an important role.
Acute
The acute form of the pathology develops immediately after direct contact with an allergenic substance.
In this case, the symptoms of this disease disappear in just a few hours.
Often there is a combination of an acute form of the disease with Quincke's edema.
The most common causes of the acute course of the disease are:
- consumption of food allergens or drugs;
- also this condition often occurs with insect bites;
- the acute form may be atypical. This disease appears when the skin is exposed to mechanical stimuli;
- it is characterized by the appearance of blisters that have a linear shape. A distinctive feature of this type of disease is the complete absence of itching.
Chronic
The chronic form of the disease usually lasts longer than 6 weeks.
In most cases, this type of disease is provoked by non-immune factors, including systemic pathologies.
In about 70% of cases, the cause of the development of such urticaria cannot be established.
The formation of this pathology occurs with a prolonged course of sensitization.
Hypersensitivity of tissues and cells occurs as a result of the appearance of sources of chronic infection.
The cause of this form of the disease may be disorders such as:
- tonsillitis;
- caries;
- adnexitis;
- in addition, problems in the digestive system and liver can lead to it.
Mechanical
In this case, linear blisters and areas of redness appear on the skin, which are the result of mechanical irritation.
It could be belt pressure or vibration while cycling.
Also, mechanical urticaria may appear 4-6 hours after squeezing the skin with shoes or elastic stockings.
This form of the disease has two types - immediate and delayed reaction.
In the first case, rashes and redness of the skin appear a few minutes after pressure on the skin. The rashes cause a burning sensation and are present for about half an hour. However, the rash does not remain on the skin for more than 2 hours.
A delayed reaction is the appearance of painful dark blisters, which are accompanied by severe itching.
They usually occur on areas of the skin that are subjected to prolonged pressure after walking or sitting.
The rash appears about half an hour or even 9 hours after exposure to the skin.
It can be present for 36 hours and is accompanied by chills, headaches, and a general deterioration in well-being.
Non-allergic
The non-allergic form can occur when the skin is exposed to heat or cold.
It can also be the result of contact with water, especially if it contains chlorine and other irritating components.
An equally important role in the formation of a non-allergic form of the disease is played by the impact of:
- solar radiation;
- snow;
- ice;
- aggressive chemicals.
In children, this disease may be associated with infection.
According to statistics, in about 60% of cases, infectious diseases are detected in people with hives, 10% react to drugs in this way, and only 5% have a reaction to eating disorders.
Often, the causes of this type of disease cannot be determined - in about 20% of cases.
Demographic
The demographic form is a reaction of the skin to mechanical irritation, which manifests itself in the form of stripes protruding above the skin.
In this case, the blisters and itching sensation usually appear in the direction of the scratches.
This form of the disease can occur on any part of the skin, including the face.
This disease may be primary. Such a violation develops directly under the influence of an allergen - wool, chemicals, etc.
There is also a secondary form of the disease. In this case, urticaria develops against the background of an existing pathology - for example, mastocytosis, serum sickness, etc.
Cholinergic
The cholinergic form is the result of physical and emotional stress. It appears with severe stress.
Symptomatic therapy in such a situation brings only temporary relief. Under prolonged stress, it is ineffective.
To prevent the development of a chronic form of the disease, you should eliminate the source of stress, undergo a course of psychotherapeutic treatment or perform relaxation activities.
Why does the rash appear on different parts of the body
Spots and rashes on the skin are the main symptom of hives.
They can occupy quite an impressive area on the body. With this diagnosis, spots appear suddenly and can move to different areas.
This phenomenon is observed for several hours, but after a day the rashes disappear, and this also happens suddenly.
The rash can be localized in any area:
- on foot;
- hands;
- body;
- scalp and feet.
However, in most cases, it strikes:
- limbs;
- external genitalia;
- face, especially the area around the mouth and eyes.
Why do children get sick
In children, acute forms of the disease are most often diagnosed, while urticaria rarely appears in infants under six months of age.
In this case, the pathology in most cases has an allergic origin.
There are quite a few factors that lead to it:
- Food- eggs, milk, fish, nuts, honey, citrus fruits, smoked meats, various additives have the most pronounced allergenic properties;
- medicines- antibiotics, sulfonamides, vitamin complexes, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, ACE inhibitors, radiopaque agents;
- hymenoptera venom- these include bees and wasps;
- infectious lesions- chronic pathologies of fungal and bacterial origin, viral diseases of a chronic nature, intestinal dysbacteriosis, infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori;
- helminthic infestations- entry of protozoa and helminths into the body;
- autoimmune disorders- in particular, thyroiditis;
- influence of physical factors on the body- heat, cold, ultraviolet radiation, pressure, vibration.
In most cases, hives in children are provoked by food and medications.
Are there risk groups?
To a greater extent, the following categories of the population are subject to the development of urticaria:
- women 20-60 years old - it is they who are most often diagnosed with solar and cold urticaria;
- people with fair skin;
- people with a hereditary predisposition to allergies;
- people who have allergies;
- young children - up to 2 years.
Urticaria is a fairly serious disease that significantly impairs the quality of life and can cause dangerous complications.
In order for the treatment of pathology to be as effective as possible, it is necessary to consult a doctor in time, who will establish the causes of the development of this disease.
Depending on the provoking factors, the specialist should select therapy.
- an allergic skin condition that manifests itself in the form of redness, itching and is characterized by the appearance of blisters or papules.
Generalized urticaria(ICD10 code L50) differs from the usual large area of \u200b\u200bthe spread of the rash - rashes often fill the entire body of the patient.
- Symptoms and manifestations
- The reasons
- Diagnostics
- Treatment
- First aid
- Medical therapy
- Folk remedies
- Diet
Symptoms and manifestations
Symptoms of generalized urticaria are similar to the symptoms of any other form of urticaria, but are characterized by increased severity and the presence of a general malaise of the patient:
Severe manifestations generalized urticaria last about 2-3 days, if untreated - up to a week, then the disease goes into remission.
To know about all stages and symptoms of urticaria you can in the video:
A photo
You can see more clearly what it looks like generalized urticaria all over the body, a photo:
The reasons
Generalized urticaria- This is a neglected form of the usual allergic urticaria.
The rash can be caused by physical factors such as heat, cold, exercise, sunlight, stress, constant pressure on the area of skin (such as from a belt), a sudden rise in body temperature (from fever or hot baths and showers), or contact with an irritating chemical, detergent, cosmetics or soap.
The rash may be symptom systemic allergic reaction:
- Pollen, animal hair, mold;
- Insect bites, especially bee stings, hornet stings;
- Food allergies (tree nuts, fish and shellfish, full fat dairy products, legumes, peanuts), food additives;
- Allergy to drugs, penicillin or aspirin.
Causes hives also include:
- Stress, depression, strong feelings;
- Overwork;
- Disruptions in the endocrine system;
- Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract;
- Fungal diseases.
Diagnostics
Allergist or the dermatologist will ask about a history of allergic reactions, as well as recent exposure to pets, plants, insects, or new foods or drugs on the patient's skin and body.
During physical examination the doctor will measure the pressure, examine the patient's skin, measure its temperature, conduct several skin tests (drawing on the skin with a blunt object - for the presence of dermographism, an ice test - for the presence of cold urticaria, a test using an exercise bike - for the presence of cholinergic urticaria).
Specialist also may appoint:
- Complete blood count and allergen analysis;
- Analysis of urine;
- Analysis of feces for dysbacteriosis and analysis of worms;
- Ultrasound diagnostics of the abdominal cavity.
Treatment
First aid
As first aid the patient can:
- Eliminate exposure to the allergen (if it can be identified);
- With Quincke's edema, immediately call an ambulance, the patient will be given an injection of Prednisolone;
- A single dose of an antihistamine drug (Suprastin, Tavegil) before visiting a doctor;
- At the first symptoms of anaphylactic shock, call an ambulance immediately. Before her arrival, place the patient on a horizontal surface, legs slightly above the head.
First aid for Quincke's edema on video:
Medical therapy
For relax simple manifestations of urticaria, the doctor will prescribe:
- Anti-itch body lotion (for example, calamine lotion);
- Cream or ointment (Fenistil-gel, Gistan-N, Asmanex, Mometasone, Uniderm);
- Antihistamine drug Tavegil, Suprastin, Tavist or Benadryl 2 r / day in the morning and evening.
If these drugs are not effective, the specialist will prescribe sedative antihistamines: Cyproheptadine, Azatadine, or Atarax.
The initial appointment is scheduled for the evening due to the calming effect, as well as hormonal ointments: Advantan, Prednisolone ointment, Elocom, Soderm.
For persons with significant side effects from these medicines, non-sedating antihistamines may be used, including Claritin, Zyrtec, or Allegra.
In cases where the patient is resistant to such treatment, urticaria therapy is added H2 receptor blockers. These include Zantak, Aksid, Tagamet.
If the patient does not respond to antihistamine therapy, the doctor prescribes:
- Glucocorticosteroids to suppress the immune system in chronic generalized urticaria;
- Laxatives and diuretics;
- Bronchodilators and oxygen therapy (in the presence of bronchospasm).
At severe symptoms generalized urticaria, the doctor may prescribe:
Reception leukotriene receptor antagonists a type of medication that will help reduce redness and swelling of the skin.
Side effects antagonists are rare and relatively minor compared to glucocorticosteroids. These are drugs such as Cyclosporine, which has been shown to be effective in treating hives by suppressing the harmful effects of the immune system, and Omaluzimab, which is given by injection and reduces the amount of antibodies that cause generalized hives.
Folk remedies
Traditional medicine aims to relieve symptoms mild (to moderate) form of generalized urticaria, against the background of a severe / acute form, traditional medicine will be powerless.
- Wipe your skin menthol lotion previously applied to a cotton pad. This will help reduce itching;
- Drink more water, it is desirable to drink Borjomi;
- 400 gr oatmeal grind in a blender and add to a warm bath, take it for 30 minutes. A colloidal solution of oats will reduce itching and relieve inflammation;
- mix valerian tincture and hawthorn(they can be purchased at a pharmacy), drink 35 drops of the mixture at night every day, drink clean boiled water, this will calm the nerves, relieve itching and inflammation caused by hives;
- Pour 1 dessert spoon yarrow herb a glass of boiling water (250 ml), leave for 45 minutes, drink 3 r / day before meals for 2 weeks;
- 250 gr marjoram pour boiling water (4 l), leave for 30 minutes, add the resulting composition to a pre-filled warm bath, the duration of the procedure is 15 minutes, the course of treatment is 10 days.
Diet
Antihistamine diet includes the following principles:
Add in the diet:
- Chicken and turkey;
- Fresh fruits – with the exception of strawberries, most fresh fruits have low histamine levels;
- Fresh vegetables - except for tomatoes;
- Grains - rice noodles, rye bread, oats, puffed rice, crackers, millet flour, pasta (from corn or durum wheat);
- Fresh pasteurized milk and skimmed dairy products;
- Milk substitutes – coconut milk, rice milk;
- Cream cheese, butter;
- Most leafy herbs;
- Herbal teas.
Find out more about methods of treatment and prevention of urticaria can on video:
Finally, generalized urticaria should not be left to chance. Against the background of the occurrence of this disease, it is important to seek medical help.
Only doctor can prescribe an adequate treatment for the disease, which will completely relieve the patient of symptoms and discomfort.
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What is urticaria
General name for a group of skin diseases. The main symptom of hives is the appearance of itchy blisters on the surface of the skin and mucous membranes. As a rule, the causes of urticaria are allergic in nature. Urticaria in children is manifested by blistering elements on the trunk, buttocks, extensor surfaces of the limbs. The main condition for effective treatment of urticaria is to identify the cause of the allergic reaction.
Causes of hives
Acute urticaria is more commonly caused by drugs, food, infection, or a hymenopteran bite. Chronic urticaria is more often associated with a variety of pathologies. Cases of physical urticaria caused by cold, heat, physical activity, pressure, vibration, sunlight are considered separately. A feature of urticaria is the rapid development and equally rapid disappearance (from several minutes to several hours) after the appointment of adequate therapy.
typically a sudden appearance on any part of the skin of numerous blisters, very itchy and bright pink in color. They are of a dense consistency, up to the size of a palm or more. Their rash lasts 1-2 hours, then the blisters disappear without a trace, but new ones may appear. Usually the attack lasts a few hours or days (acute urticaria), but sometimes it lasts for months and even years (chronic urticaria). The process may be accompanied by malaise, headache, fever.
In clinical practice, the classification of urticaria is most often used, based on etiological factors, for example, drug, food, mechanical (artificial), cold (the reaction to cold can be slow, manifesting itself after 1-2 days), thermal (occurs mainly before menstruation, during pregnancy, in the elderly, more often during the transition from cold to heat), toxic (with direct exposure to the skin of irritants - nettles, hairs of caterpillars, jellyfish, bees, etc.), light (caused by ultraviolet, infrared and visible spectrum rays ). Chronic forms of urticaria are often associated with impaired functions of the liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, helminthic invasions, foci of chronic infection (in the tonsils, dental granulomas, gallbladder and duct, etc.), toxicosis of pregnant women, decay products of malignant tumors.
Urticaria symptoms
Urticaria is divided into acute, including acute limited Quincke's edema, chronic recurrent and persistent papular chronic urticaria. The acute form of the disease occurs rapidly, suddenly in the form of profuse urticarial rashes, located on the trunk, upper and lower extremities. The blisters are distinguished by juiciness, rich pink color with a pearly tint and intense itching. With an abundant number of elements, the blisters merge into extensive foci with uneven polycyclic edges. In this case, subfebrile condition with chills (nettle fever), gastrointestinal disorders, biliary dyskinesia, neurotic conditions can be observed.
Rash elements can occur on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, nasopharynx, larynx, where they are accompanied by swelling that makes breathing and swallowing difficult. Rashes of blisters usually do not last long and disappear after 1-2 hours. The general course of acute urticaria is calculated in several days. With rational treatment, it is quickly resolved. Acute limited Quincke's edema often occurs on its own, but can also be combined with urticaria. The disease begins suddenly with a rapid limited swelling of the skin or mucous membranes, often in the face, nasopharynx and genitals. The skin acquires a pinkish-pearl color, becomes tense, dense to the touch, painful or slightly itchy, with a burning sensation. Edema is especially dangerous in the larynx or pharynx, where it can lead to stenosis and asphyxia.
Chronic recurrent urticaria is characterized by less abundant and less violent blisters that appear paroxysmal over several (sometimes tens) of years. Periods of relapse alternate with remissions of varying duration. During an exacerbation, general somatic phenomena are observed: subfebrile condition, gastrointestinal discomfort, arthralgia, headache, malaise, weakness. Persistent papular urticaria usually transforms from chronic recurrent due to the addition of polymorphic cell infiltration to the interstitial edema. Nodular elements differ in stagnant-erythematous color, dense or densely elastic consistency, are located in the place of blisters and repeat their shapes and sizes.
A special type of disease from the "pruritus" group is strophulus, or children's pruritus (it is sometimes called children's urticaria). Dermatosis occurs in children with exudative diathesis at the age of 1 to 4 years, sometimes during teething. The leading pathogenetic factor is alimentary allergization to cow's milk, some varieties of fish, chocolate, citrus fruits, egg white, mushrooms, strawberries, strawberries. In infants, sensitization to the protein (caseinogen) of mother's milk is possible. Often, pruritus (children's urticaria) occurs as a result of intolerance to therapeutic serums, antibiotics, sulfa drugs and other drugs. Gastrointestinal functional insufficiency, accompanied by autointoxication and autosensitization, is of great importance in the formation of dermatosis.
Children's urticaria manifests itself as blistering elements on the trunk, buttocks, extensor surfaces of the limbs. In the center of most blisters, one can see dense, millet-sized, intensely itchy nodules (papular strophulus). The most characteristic papules, at the top of which there are small vesicles (papulo-vesicle or seropapule) or small blisters filled with serous fluid (bullous strofulus). Due to severe itching with constant scratching, excoriations and erosions are formed on the surface of the papulo-vesicles, covered with hemorrhagic crusts. In most children, after the cessation of breastfeeding, the rash regresses.
An irrational diet, the presence of foci of chronic infection, frequent use (for example, for OVRI) of antibiotics or sulfonamides contribute to a chronic relapsing course of strophulus with its further transformation into adult pruritus or diffuse neurodermatitis. Strofulus is often accompanied by angioedema, as well as asthmatic bronchitis, rhinitis, gastrointestinal dysfunctions, insomnia and neurotic disorders. In children with chronic pruritus, white dermographism, the absence of a plantar reflex (symptom of T. P. Pavlov) and a decrease in the abdominal reflex, severe dry skin, reduced sweating and lymphadenopathy are observed. Blood tests show eosinophilia, lymphocytosis, and elevated ESR.
Symptoms of hives in children
Allergic urticaria in children appears as a red or light pink rash on the body, limbs, mucous membranes of the eyes and lips, along with itching and swelling. The duration of the disease can range from several minutes to several hours, and in some cases even days. The most dangerous symptom is swelling of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, which makes breathing difficult, causing an attack of severe coughing. In this case, you need to call an ambulance. With swelling of the gastrointestinal tract, the child may experience diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, nervous system disturbance, dizziness, and slight lethargy. Urticaria can be acute or chronic. In acute urticaria, the symptoms of the disease occur for the first time, therefore, if a rash, weakness, headache and body temperature up to 39C appear, you should immediately consult a doctor, otherwise the acute form may become chronic. As a rule, the cause of acute urticaria in children is the impact of drugs and food allergens. Among other reasons, it should be noted: helminthic invasion, caries, viral infections, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and endocrine system.
Urticaria symptoms in adults
The main symptoms of hives in adults are severe itching and the appearance of whitish-pink blisters. The rash can be located anywhere on the body, causing local tissue swelling. In addition, body temperature may rise to 39C, anxiety increases and appetite disappears. A specific sign of urticaria is the rapid relief of allergies by taking antihistamine medications. Symptoms of urticaria may precede the development of more severe conditions, such as anaphylactic shock or angioedema, so if the described symptoms appear, you should immediately consult a doctor. You may need urgent medical attention if you experience the following symptoms: swelling of your throat, face, or neck; suffocation; loss of consciousness.
Urticaria treatment
An obligatory component of the treatment of urticaria is diet, a special lifestyle. It should be noted that with urticaria, a number of drugs are prohibited that can be prescribed for the treatment of concomitant diseases of a patient with urticaria. These drugs include: aspirin and its derivatives, codeine, ACE inhibitors (Enap, Enam, Capoten, etc.). If you suffer or have suffered from urticaria, you should definitely notify your doctor about this so that he does not prescribe you drugs that can provoke an exacerbation. Traditionally, treatment for hives begins with antihistamines. It is preferable to use 3rd generation drugs: Telfast, Zyrtec, Erius, etc. Sometimes (with chronic urticaria) a long-term, up to three months or more, medication is required.
Treatment of urticaria in children
When prescribing treatment for urticaria in children, the pediatrician must find out the main cause of the disease. When urticaria appears, as a response to a food allergy, it is necessary first of all to remove the causative agent of the disease from the child's body. Plentiful drinking, laxatives are prescribed, in case of urgent need it is quite possible to remove the allergen with an enema. If there is severe itching, skin rashes, then the child is allowed to take an antihistamine drug. Sometimes children are prescribed special therapeutic baths, the body is washed with allergic rashes only with baby soap. If after the treatment of urticaria in children there is no significant improvement in the condition, the itching only intensifies, it is imperative to seek help from a pediatrician. In general, recovery from urticaria occurs after a considerable time. In addition to the use of special medications that can alleviate the condition of a sick child, it is necessary to fulfill some extremely important conditions.
The main condition is to identify the exact cause of an allergic reaction in a child, the unconditional exclusion of absolutely any contact with him. The child must be examined in the most serious way and immediate treatment of this pathology should begin. During the examination period, parents will need to take a responsible attitude to the prescribed strict diet. It will be necessary to carry out serious detoxification measures in the living room of a child suffering from an allergic reaction. Antihistamines can only be taken as directed by a doctor. Quite often, in the treatment of urticaria in children, the doctor prescribes general strengthening therapy. With regular repetition of episodes with urticaria, you should definitely show the child to a dermatologist, allergist, neurologist, gastroenterologist, endocrinologist. An examination conducted by absolutely all of the above specialists will allow you to clearly see the full picture of the disease.
A child suffering from allergies and in need of competent treatment of urticaria in children must have a special diet that excludes products such as coffee, natural bee honey, nuts, and spices. It will be necessary to exclude from the diet products containing food colorings, which are considered the strongest provocateurs of allergic reactions, in particular, urticaria in children. With a competent determination of the causes of urticaria in children, the establishment of a provoking disease factor, allergies are necessarily treatable. Ointments should not be used to treat allergic reactions such as hives. The ointment gives a short-lived effect of application, and some antihistamines also do not completely cure hives. Any case of occurrence and treatment of urticaria in children is exclusively individual. A pediatrician requires a careful approach to each small patient.
Allergic urticaria
Allergic urticaria is a skin reaction to an allergen, the main manifestation of which is severe itching and blistering, similar to a nettle burn or insect bites. A typical property of allergic urticaria is its sudden onset, as well as complete disappearance, even without the use of drugs. In addition, additional symptoms of this type of urticaria are fever, dizziness, nausea, indigestion, and vomiting. Allergic urticaria can appear after eating familiar foods or taking various medications.
Other factors influencing the occurrence of the disease can be: bites of various insects, stress, contact with individual plants, too high or too low ambient temperature. In the treatment of allergic urticaria, it is necessary to eliminate the cause of the development of an allergic reaction. The acute form of urticaria requires immediate treatment, after the doctor prescribes effective drugs, it quickly passes. The most difficult thing is to cope with the chronic form of urticaria, which is treated for a long time. For the treatment of allergic urticaria, methods of homeopathy, herbal medicine, cryotherapy and autolymphocytotherapy are used. Many experts agree that in order to cope. To prevent the disease, it is necessary to strengthen the immune system and follow the right diet.
Solar urticaria is a type of photodermatosis caused by the action of ultraviolet rays on the skin. Other symptoms of solar urticaria are redness of the skin, blistering, severe itching, skin peeling and swelling that appear after about a day. Sometimes these symptoms may be accompanied by disorders of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. The disease can be complicated by deterioration in the general condition of the patient and shock. Often, solar urticaria becomes chronic, in which the epidermis thickens and hyperpigmentation occurs. Usually, the first signs of the disease appear in early spring and continue until the end of autumn. A typical feature of solar urticaria is that redness and blistering occurs on exposed areas of the body and tends to occur in women.
In view of the fact that there are many types of urticaria, before treatment it is necessary to establish the causes that led to the development of the disease. In this case, the first therapeutic measure is protection from exposure to sunlight. Treatment of solar urticaria includes taking antiallergic drugs, which include kestin, erius, claritin. A feature of these drugs is that they have a long-term effect and do not inhibit the functions of the nervous system. Before using drugs, you should consult with your doctor. In addition, the following ointments are used in the treatment: Beloderm, Celeston, Betamethasone and Fluorocort. Scientific studies have proven the ineffectiveness of single-component therapy for the treatment of solar urticaria, it should be complex. In the event of a chronic form of the disease, acetylsalicylic acid is contraindicated, which can significantly worsen the patient's condition.
Questions and answers on the topic "Urticaria"
Question:Hello! I have had urticaria for 5 years already, I am allergic to antibiotics (pencelin, tetracycline). On the third day of admission, spots appear like burns, up to Quincke's edema. I turned to allergists, but there is no sense, no one can say anything, only diets, but I already follow them. Now I am preparing for the operation, the anesthesiologist does not give the go-ahead for the operation until there is a normal conclusion from the allergist.
Answer: Hello! I understand your situation, sometimes the cause of urticaria is not found even with the most thorough examination. For an anesthesiologist, the presence of urticaria cannot be a contraindication to surgery.
Question:Hello! My daughter is 2 years old, she has urticaria, and if suprastin is not given, swelling begins, if fish, seafood gets on the skin, if she touches her face with her hands after eating green peas. If one of the adults feeds her, and the child does not have contact with the above products, then nothing happens. Why is this happening? Will it go away with age if none of the relatives have such an allergy? Thank you!
Answer: Urticaria is an immediate allergic reaction. By itself, the reactivity of the organism does not disappear. This is achieved through hard work and trust in the doctor.
Question:I take Hilak Forte, I noticed the symptoms of Urticaria, should I continue taking the drug or should I immediately stop?
Answer: Hilak forte should be stopped immediately if symptoms of urticaria occur. Tell your doctor about the symptoms that appear and ask him to change Hilak forte to another medicine.
Question:Hello my baby is 6 months old. I was tormented by allergies twice, I had severe urticaria, the second time I was in the hospital for 4 days, I poured out, I was tested for dysbacteriosis. Conclusion: the presence of hemolytic Escherichia coli 10 ^ 8, the doctor prescribed us: azithromycin 0.125 1 time per day for three days, viferon suppositories 2 times a day for three days, and bifiform 3 times for 5 days. I would like to know your opinion about this treatment.
Answer: This treatment should help you. Azithromycin is well tolerated by children of the first year of life and should suppress the overgrowth of hemolytic bacillus in the intestines, while making room for the normal flora contained in Bifiform. Be sure to take a course of treatment.
Question:Cuticles itch and blisters appear.
Answer: These may be symptoms of allergic dermatitis or hives. Be sure to consult a dermatologist.
Question:Daughter, 9.5 months, takes Hilak forte and Linex to correct the intestinal microflora and skin rashes with its associated disorders. Under the eyes on the third day of admission, rashes appeared. Could this be an allergy? The rashes on the body have not changed. What are the signs of hives? How is it different from other types of allergies?
Answer: The main symptoms of hives are itchy, swollen rashes that appear on the skin after contact with the allergen. in your case, most likely it is not about an allergy to drugs, but about the appearance of new rashes against the background of atopic dermatitis. Are rashes under the eyes somehow different from rashes on the body? If you are sure that there is a connection between the rashes and taking Linex and Hilak, you will most likely need to stop using these drugs.
Question:Hello! Yesterday, after a daytime sleep, my daughter (2.3 years old) woke up with swollen and reddened eyelids, immediately gave her a quarter of suprastin and in the evening gave another quarter. Today, my daughter has red spots on her body, mainly on her legs, buttocks, under her arms and on her neck. The spots are blurry, bright red with pimples and itchy. Can you please tell me if this is an allergy or something else? After Easter, they were treated for food allergies, she was all in a rash, but the rash was small and not blurry, the eyelids were also a little swollen, but not so much. As of yesterday, all the symptoms of the past allergy were gone. Thanks a lot.
Answer: The symptoms you describe (in particular swelling of the eyelids, red, itchy spots with blurry edges) are characteristic of hives (this is a form of allergy). You did the right thing by giving the child suprastin, but if the rash does not go away within 2-3 days, be sure to show the child to an allergist.
Question:I have had hives for over 5 years. In the morning and in the evening it scatters all over the body. After taking "diazolin" or "zodak" disappears. My 10 year old son is similar. I took tests, was treated for lamblia, kept a diet - it's useless. Now in a position - is it not harmful to the fetus, is it possible to continue taking these drugs.
Answer: These drugs are contraindicated during pregnancy and you should stop taking them as soon as possible.
Question:My 2.4-year-old child was ill with pneumonia, after being discharged on the second day, his temperature rose and red spots appeared on his legs and back. They called an ambulance, the doctor diagnosed acute respiratory infections and urticaria, gave an injection of suprasin. The next day we invited the local pediatrician, she said that the temperature was due to urticaria. The temperature of 37.7 rises mainly in the afternoon and lasts until night. Is it so? Or all the same there is another infection causing temperature?
Answer: With urticaria, there may be a slight increase in body temperature. Does the child have other symptoms besides fever at the moment?
Question:Hello! I am 16 years old. A week ago, my two eyes and lips swelled up. The doctor said that it was hives and that he needed to go to the hospital for treatment. In the hospital, I was diagnosed with gastritis, and they said that the urticaria appeared because of it. Although I never complained of pain in the abdomen and any symptoms of gastritis. Whether the urticaria can be shown against a background of a gastritis which I do not feel?
Answer: Urticaria is an allergic disease, which, as a rule, has nothing to do with gastritis. On what basis were you diagnosed with gastritis, if nothing bothers you? What research did you do?
Question:Hello. I'm 52 years old. The climax has begun. Recently, rashes appeared on her body (she had never suffered from allergies and skin diseases before). The rash quickly spread throughout the body. Has addressed to the dermatologist. The doctor said it was hives. To stop the urticaria, the doctor prescribed prednisone intravenously for 5 days. I am confused by contraindications for the gastrointestinal tract and osteoporosis. I have severe heartburn, and it increases acidity. And a year ago I was diagnosed with osteoporosis (a decrease in bone tissue by 33%.) Please tell me, is it legal to prescribe this drug to me? Are there other means? Thank you.
Answer: If these are indeed symptoms of urticaria, then the appointment of prednisolone is justified. During the period of use of this drug, it is possible to use calcium preparations and gastroprotectors to reduce the negative impact on the gastrointestinal tract. Unfortunately, this medicine can only be replaced by your doctor. it is a hormonal drug and self-cancellation is not recommended in order to avoid the development of side effects.
Question:Child 1 year 10 months. A day ago, urticaria appeared, the manifestations were removed with diazolin and advantan, after 10 hours red plaques appeared again, only stronger. They called a doctor, injected suprastin, gave coal, everything went away, after another 6 hours - all over again, does this mean that the allergen is still entering the body or has it been excreted for so long? The plaques themselves do not disappear, they become larger and larger, diazolin does not help.
Answer: In general, judging by the description, it is not very similar to urticaria, it spontaneously passes quickly and does not add sleep. Be sure to show the baby to a good allergist, dermatologist, gastroenterologist, exclude all allergens from food and around (pillows, animals, carpets). It is advisable to pass both on the eggs of worms and on dysbacteriosis, all the drugs that you gave are too “cruel” for the child.
Question:My daughter often has red stripes on her skin, like from nettles. What to do? 19 years old. Suprastin helps, but not for long. The rash can appear at any time and lasts 10-20 minutes, then disappears and appears in another place after a while, and if combed, it spreads throughout the body like scratches and blisters. This goes on for a year.
Answer: Your daughter really can be assumed to have hives, which is an allergic disease. Be sure to show the child to an allergist and undergo treatment for urticaria under his guidance.
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Urticaria is divided into acute, lasting six weeks, and chronic, in which a skin rash appears repeatedly for more than six weeks.
Before proceeding with the treatment of urticaria, one should understand the causes of its occurrence, only then can one hope for a successful recovery. What causes hives?
Firstly, these are external irritants: insect bites, bees, bedbugs, nettle “burn”. Secondly, the cause may be foods, or rather their natural ingredients, or medicines. In this case, urticaria is nothing more than an allergic reaction to food or medication. The key to proper treatment will be the identification of the allergen and its elimination. This is usually not difficult if the urticaria is acute. And it is quite another matter if the urticaria is chronic. In chronic urticaria, you should undergo an examination, donate blood and other tests. Sometimes doctors may refer the patient for an X-ray.
Urticaria can also develop with the introduction of a foreign protein: therapeutic sera, milk, vaccines. The cause may be colitis, liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, as well as emotional stress, sun or frost. As you can see, there are a lot of reasons for hives, so in any case, you should contact specialists and act on the basis of each specific case. However, there are still general recommendations, and we'll talk about them.
In acute urticaria caused by ingestion of food or drugs, first of all, laxatives that disinfect the intestines are prescribed.
For the treatment of acute urticaria, traditional medicine recommends preparing an infusion of peppermint. To do this, take 2 tablespoons of mint and pour 300 ml of boiling water. Insist for 1 hour. Take the infusion should be 50 ml, three times a day.
You can make an infusion using mistletoe. We take one teaspoon of leaves, pour a glass of cold water, insist 12 hours, filter. We drink the contents throughout the day.
Phyto baths are used to eliminate itching and relieve inflammation. For example, this: prepare an infusion of marjoram from 200 g of the plant and two liters of boiling water. The resulting infusion is poured into a bath for bathing.
Debilitating itching can be soothed by taking a hot bath with baking soda. One glass of soda dissolved in the bath is enough.
Burdock leaf compresses have a good calming effect.
Drug treatment of urticaria consists of taking antihistamines. In severe cases of urticaria (Quincke's edema), the attack is stopped by the introduction of adrenaline, as well as corticosteroid drugs.
Chronic urticaria often accompanies the development of chronic infections in the human body. Therefore, it is very important to identify, first of all, the cause of the disease and only then proceed to treatment. Usually, the treatment of chronic urticaria consists in the search for somatic diseases (diseases of the walls of the body cavity, but not of the internal organs), the manifestation of which may be urticaria. Therapeutic measures aimed at combating the underlying disease lead to a decrease in the symptoms of urticaria. However, the patient must understand that it is not so easy to identify the cause of urticaria, therefore, he must approach this issue with all responsibility. Only the joint work of the patient and the doctor can lead to the long-awaited result and defeat the disease.
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Features of the diagnosis of urticaria
Urticaria is a common skin disease characterized by the appearance of a rash similar to a nettle burn due to exposure to the body of any external factors - infectious, allergic, natural. The frequency of occurrence of this disease is quite high - about every third resident at least once in his life, but faced with a similar problem.
According to statistics, representatives of the weaker sex are more susceptible to urticaria than men. This is due to the structural features of the neuroendocrine system of different sexes.
Symptoms
The main symptom of this disease is the appearance of inflammation on the skin in the form of a rash, which is distinguished by an elevation above the surface of the skin and clearly defined boundaries. In most cases, rashes appear quite abruptly, they are accompanied by severe itching, and can vary in color from pink to red.
There are two types of this disease:
- The chronic form is characterized by a protracted illness, frequent relapses, and the interval between skin inflammation and rest is always different.
- The acute form is characterized by a sharp manifestation of the disease, which usually lasts from several days to 10-14 days.
In most cases, hives are not contagious. But if its cause is the development of an infectious process in the body, which is easily transmitted from person to person, then in this case infection is possible. And she, in turn, can manifest itself as urticaria.
The disease in question requires the immediate establishment of the cause of its occurrence, as well as timely treatment. Otherwise, a chronic form of the disease or other complications may develop, such as:
- angioedema;
- anaphylactic shock;
- dizziness, weakness;
- infection of the body as a result of scratching the affected skin.
Causes of hives
Having recognized the symptoms of the disease, it is important to find out its cause - this will allow you to prescribe the necessary treatment. Urticaria disease can be caused by the following reasons:
- the spread of an infection that can be caused by bacteria or viruses;
- medicines - vitamins, analgesics and antibiotics;
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
- food products - eggs, dairy products, seafood, chocolate nuts, honey, smoked products;
- various weather factors - sunlight, heat or cold;
- physical causes - water, perspiration, friction;
- substances contained in the air - plant pollen, dust, fluff;
- bites of insects, jellyfish and other living beings;
- as a result of interaction with Nickel, resins, dyes;
- perfumes or cosmetics.
Allergic reactions in urticaria can have a cumulative effect, that is, when exposed to any factor, its manifestation is visible not immediately, but after some certain time. Therefore, the reason for its appearance should be sought in a wide time range, not limited to a few hours. Additional factors for the development of such a diagnosis:
- the presence of allergies;
- some diseases - chronic rhinitis;
- bronchial asthma; SARS;
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
- problems with the thyroid gland;
- change of climatic conditions when moving or vacationing;
- tumors of the internal organs.
The cumulative effect of urticaria may appear some time after contact with an irritating factor, so it is important to consider all possible causes of its manifestation.
Various forms of this disease
There is a classification of urticaria, which includes several varieties of this disease. Here is some of them.
This is the most common type. It is characterized by the rapid development of the disease and the same disappearance of rashes. Inflammation appears on the skin or mucous membranes, some of its foci can disappear within a day.
On average, the period of illness lasts up to 2 weeks. Often the cause of this disease is an allergic reaction.
Chronic recurrent urticaria
It is characterized by a protracted course of the disease, which can last for months or years. The periods of inflammation and remission can be of different duration. Skin rashes are often accompanied by the formation of papules, swelling, including angioedema, and inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The chronic form may occur due to repeated exposure to allergens or due to the development of an advanced stage of the disease.
An allergic reaction and rashes in this case are caused by insect bites, which most often occurs in the summer. The rash on the body has the form of papules, hard to the touch, and is localized most often on the legs, but can be located throughout the body. In some cases, due to scratching damaged areas, there is a risk of infection.
Features of this type of disease:
Occurs with the greatest activity of sunlight in the warm season, as well as in regions with a warm climate. Irritation and rash on the skin disappear after limiting contact with the sun. Their localization - arms, shoulders, neck. As a rule, in the warm season, these are open areas of the body.
An additional factor may be the feature of fair skin, which is often prone to burns. A similar allergic reaction can occur after taking certain medicines.
Manifested as a result of exposure to cold. As symptoms, skin irritation, rashes, blisters, accompanied by unpleasant itching, may occur. In some cases, Quincke's edema may develop.
In addition to hypothermia, other factors can provoke the disease:
- cold water, food, ice cream;
- viral diseases, such as hepatitis;
- helminthic invasions;
- chronic infections;
- problems with the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Often, foci of irritation are localized on the face and hands, in some cases throughout the body. They can pass within a few hours after exposure to cold, and you should not refuse to see a doctor. If signs of urticaria accompany the patient for several days, a medical examination is required, since such a symptom may indicate a more serious disease of the body.
A fairly rare disease associated with exposure to the body of the allergen acetylcholine, which is in the human body. A similar reaction can occur in the following cases:
An additional factor may be a tendency to allergies.
The main symptoms are skin rashes in the form of small swollen blisters of a red hue, accompanied by severe itching. With relapses, a sharp increase in body temperature is possible. Treatment is carried out with specialized drugs, the choice of which differs from standard therapy.
There are other, less common types of urticaria:
- Thermal - after prolonged contact with hot air or water - bath, hot bath;
- Physical - with heavy physical exertion;
- Aquagenic - in contact with water;
- Contact - with direct skin contact with an external irritant.
Urticaria in children
Urticaria in childhood is most often the result of food allergies, although other causes are also possible. This is due to the fact that the protective functions of the body have not yet been fully developed in the child, immunity is being formed, and the body is gradually getting used to new products. Therefore, it is important to introduce the first complementary foods gradually, observing the time intervals between new products, as well as monitoring the body's reaction to them.
Symptoms of urticaria in children are not very different from those in adults - the same rashes of a reddish hue, accompanied by itching. Sometimes they can be more pronounced, and the disease can be more acute.
Urticaria can manifest itself in varying degrees of severity.
- Light degree characterized by a slight sensation of itching, the absence of edema, in general, the patient's condition is satisfactory.
- Average degree the severity of the disease is characterized by an increase in symptoms, including itching, which causes some discomfort to the patient. Puffiness, intoxication of the body, the development of complications are possible. In some cases, asthma attacks may occur, which is associated with difficulty breathing due to swelling of the larynx.
- Severe degree urticaria is accompanied by severe edema, the development of complications and damage to internal organs. A transition to the chronic stage of the disease is possible.
Treatment of this diagnosis in children necessarily requires the supervision of a doctor and strict adherence to his recommendations. Medical therapy is usually prescribed taking into account the following factors:
- the cause of the disease;
- patient's age;
- features of the body and the state of health of the child;
- the presence of concomitant diseases;
- the duration and nature of the course of the disease;
- the presence of allergic reactions to any drugs.
Timely diagnosis of such a disease
In most cases, the doctor establishes the primary diagnosis after an external examination of the patient. Symptoms of urticaria in the form of rashes and redness of the skin are always on the face. In addition to the examination, the doctor draws up a patient's medical history, in which it is important to take into account:
- the timing of the onset of symptoms of the disease;
- eating habits in recent times;
- possible interaction with chemicals;
- the presence of allergies;
- taking medications.
This information will be helpful in making an accurate diagnosis.
In addition to collecting an anamnesis and external examination - the prevalence of rashes and their nature, the doctor may prescribe the receipt of allergological tests, as well as scarification, application and provocative tests. They make it possible to identify the source of the disease. Additionally, the following tests may be prescribed:
- general and clinical blood tests;
- blood for syphilis and hepatitis;
- urine and stool tests.
As well as standard procedures - ECG, ultrasound, FGDS, fluorography.
Often, a comprehensive examination is carried out with the consultation of an immunologist, an allergist and a gastroenterologist.
When making a diagnosis, it is important to differentiate urticaria from diseases such as rubella, angioedema, allergic dermatitis, and other skin diseases.
How to treat hives
Before starting treatment for urticaria, it is important to determine the cause of its occurrence and establish an accurate diagnosis. The purpose of therapy will largely depend on the source of the disease.
General treatment
Treatment of urticaria should be aimed at eliminating the cause that causes it. For example:
- in the case of food allergies - nutrition correction;
- restriction or substitution of medicines;
- when exposed to environmental factors - their exclusion;
- avoid contact with harmful chemicals;
- treatment of the source of infection.
This will be the first step towards recovery.
- stuffy rooms with hot air should be avoided;
- while taking a shower, it is desirable to exclude scrubs, hard soaps, hard washcloths, in some cases it is possible to use moisturizers;
- tight clothing made of synthetic materials can cause discomfort, so it is better to replace it with loose-fitting clothes made of cotton fabrics;
- for bathing or washing hands, it is advisable to use warm water, not hot and not cold, contact with snow or ice should be avoided;
- sometimes recommend drinking plenty of water and following the prescribed diet.
In the treatment of urticaria, in addition to the main treatment and doctor's recommendations, some tips will be useful:
- it is worth giving up sunburn;
- avoid taking hot baths;
- in some cases, it is not recommended to visit the pool, baths, saunas;
- it is desirable to refuse the use of various cosmetics, including decorative cosmetics.
Use of medications
Before using any medicines, it is important to consult with your doctor or follow his recommendations. Their independent or unsystematic use in some cases can cause the opposite effect and increase the allergic reaction, which can aggravate the situation and delay recovery.
There are some common drugs for the treatment of this disease:
- antihistamines to eliminate the causes of urticaria associated with the action of histamine - "diphenhydramine", "suprastin", "daizolin" or "fenkarol" 1-2 tablets per day after meals;
- glucocorticoid or hormonal drugs that have a stronger effect - ointment or tablets "prednisolone", solution or tablets "dixamethasone", "diprospan";
- enterosorbents or laxatives to remove the source of allergy from the body - safe "activated carbon", "smecta" or "enterosgel".
In the presence of concomitant diseases, drugs for their treatment are selected on an individual basis and are prescribed in combination with the main therapy.
Urticaria treatment at home
Due to the fact that such a disease has a high probability of recurrence, and its neglected form can become chronic, you should not abuse self-treatment. All home methods for getting rid of hives are best discussed with your doctor.
An additional argument for consulting with a specialist will be the fact that folk remedies can be allergens, which will not have the best effect on the process of treating the disease.
Some home remedies include:
- the use of St. John's wort oil for external use;
- celery root in the form of freshly squeezed juice, one teaspoon is recommended to be consumed some time before meals;
- an infusion of dry walnut leaves for oral administration is also sometimes recommended in the treatment of urticaria;
- additional means for oral administration may be: an infusion of oak bark, a decoction of chamomile or string.
Diet for hives
Due to the fact that the diagnosis of urticaria is often due to an allergic reaction to some kind of irritant, diet is sometimes prescribed as a measure for its treatment. It is important to note that dietary nutrition should not be prescribed independently. Such uncontrolled nutrition can adversely affect the state of the human body or aggravate existing health problems. That is why the choice of diet should be agreed with the doctor.
There is a list of desirable products for consumption with a similar diagnosis:
- fermented milk products without additional fillers;
- various cereals, excluding semolina;
- butter or refined sunflower oil;
- grain bread;
- beef, turkey or rabbit meat;
- apples with yellow or green skin, pears, gooseberries;
- from vegetables - zucchini, pumpkin, green beans, fresh green peas.
A logical question arises, what can not be eaten with hives? If the cause of the diagnosis is a food allergy, then the diet may be beneficial, and if the rash is due to the development of an infection, then a severe dietary restriction can further weaken the body.
- fresh bread;
- eggs;
- fatty meats or fish;
- heavy broths from meat and fish;
- smoked products, sausages, semi-finished products;
- canned foods, pickles;
- spicy seasonings, sauces;
- mushrooms, nuts;
- citrus fruits, peaches, pineapples, apricots, kiwi, melon and watermelon;
- grapes, all red berries, blackcurrant;
- tomatoes, radishes, bell peppers, green onions;
- confectionery and sweet products, chocolate, ice cream, honey;
- from drinks refusal of alcohol, cocoa and black coffee.
It is desirable to adhere to such a diet for some time after recovery in order to prevent recurrence of the disease and its chronic nature.
As an approximate menu for such a diet, you can offer the following option:
- for breakfast - milk porridge with fruit, tea, a sandwich can be replaced with grain bread;
- for lunch, vegetable soup with the addition of separately boiled meat is suitable to exclude fatty broth from the diet. As a side dish, boiled, stewed, or steamed meat or fish of low-fat varieties, meatballs or meatballs with a side dish are suitable;
- for dinner, you can choose a potato casserole, meat or fish, with boiled potatoes, cottage cheese or cottage cheese casserole with some fruits, such as pears or baked apples;
- for an afternoon snack or snacks between main meals, you can choose kefir, cottage cheese, an apple with a green or yellow peel.
In most patients, this disease is treatable and does not leave noticeable marks on the skin. In severe or advanced cases, there is a high risk of complications or a chronic course of the disease. Therefore, timely diagnosis, refusal of self-treatment and implementation of the doctor's recommendations makes it possible for a successful outcome of the disease.
Urticaria is a disease of the skin, accompanied by itchy swollen blisters and swelling. The causes of urticaria depend mainly on three factors:
- False allergic reaction, i.e. mechanical effect on the skin (pressure, friction, overheating, vibration, cold or heat);
- A true allergic reaction occurs when an allergen is present in the body;
- Contact reaction (insect bites, contact with herbs, household chemicals).
Urticaria can occur both in adults and in babies, during the flowering period of plants (seasonal) and regardless of the season (year-round). Based on the rate of flow, there is acute urticaria and chronic. The acute type is characterized by rapid development and the disappearance of symptoms without a trace. The chronic type is either a persistent skin rash or a rash that occurs at regular intervals. Chronic urticaria often occurs in adults. The treatment of this disease is a complex process, aimed primarily at finding the causes that cause urticaria to appear.
Generalized causes
The causes of this disease can be very different: diseases of the internal organs, autoimmune diseases, inflammatory processes, hormonal disorders, infection with worms, harmful environmental effects, taking medications, a nervous situation at work and at home. For convenience and visualization of what urticaria can be, the reasons are summarized in the table.
Type of | Subtype | Cause | Revealing factor |
Physical and mechanical | Cold | Skin exposure to cold air (wind), water (ice), or an object | Apply an ice cube to the sensitive skin of the hand (wrist, forearm) for 180-240 seconds |
Thermal | Exposure to warm air or an object on the skin | Apply an object heated to 40 0 С to the skin for no longer than 4 minutes | |
Compression | Pressure on the skin | Easy walking with a load on the shoulder. The duration of the test is 15-20 minutes, the weight of the load should not exceed 7 kg | |
Sunny | Sunlight (UV and visible) | Irradiation of sensitive areas of the skin with light waves for permitted periods of time | |
Cholinergic | An increase in body temperature (0.5-1 0 C) | 20 minute hot bath | |
Aquagenic | Exposure to water, regardless of its temperature | Water applications for 25-35 minutes | |
Dermographic | Mechanical effect on the skin | Slight damage (scratching) of the skin | |
Vibrating | When exposed to vibration | Applying a medical vibrator to certain areas of the skin for up to 5 minutes | |
allergic | food | Allergen ingestion with food | Skin tests that detect allergies, this type of disease is considered true |
Medicinal | Taking medications (antibiotics, hormonal drugs), after vaccination | ||
Contact | In direct contact with allergens (household chemicals, plants, insects, animal saliva) | ||
Other | Psychogenic | On nerves | Patient Interview |
toxic | The impact of toxins on the body (including the waste products of protozoa) | Venous blood tests | |
Adrenergic | One-time release of adrenaline into the blood | Patient interview, clinical and complete blood count | |
autoimmune | Immune system disorders | Skin tests | |
Anaphylactic | Excessive exercise | Doing physical exercise |
These are not all the causes of urticaria in adults and young patients. In two out of three people who see a doctor, it is not possible to establish what causes hives. This disease is called idiopathic.
Most often, the patient has several types of the disease, for example, on a nervous basis, urticaria intersects with autoimmune and adrenergic. And sometimes several types may appear that are absolutely unrelated to each other: there was a hives from the nerves, a mosquito bit and an eaten orange gave a rash - three factors and one result. Treatment, in such processes, must be competent and comprehensive.
In order to more accurately understand why the unbearable itching and rash that appears is of concern to most of the world's population, it is necessary to conduct a detailed examination of the etiological factors.
Etiology
Infections in the body
To date, it has not been definitely proven that infections are the root causes of urticaria. A number of researchers in their work draw direct relationships between infections and urticaria, while other scientists refute them. However, it is a well-known fact that the treatment of infectious diseases can help completely get rid of blisters or increase the frequency and duration of remissions.
Pathologies, as causes, in which urticaria is possible:
- Diseases of the oral cavity (abscess, caries, pulpitis, stomatitis, periodontitis);
- Diseases of the nasopharynx and upper respiratory tract (tonsillitis, sinusitis, sinusitis, otitis, pharyngitis);
- Urological inflammation (prostatitis, cholecystitis, urethritis, cystitis);
- Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract associated with infection with Helicobacter pylori and other bacteria;
- Viral lesions of the liver (hepatitis);
- The presence of the herpes virus (all subtypes, including Epstein Barr);
- Noroviruses, including Norfolk virus;
- HIV and (or) syphilis;
- Fungal infections (in particular candidiasis).
It should be noted that with such diseases, a rash on the skin is not always hives. The reason is that many patients call urticaria very serious diseases, for example, vasculitis. Vasculitis is an inflammatory disease of the blood vessels and has nothing to do with urticaria. Treatment of such a pathology takes place in completely different directions.
Autoimmune processes
The hypothesis that autoimmune diseases are a factor in the development of urticaria existed long before its clinical confirmation. Urticaria is the result of the release of histamine under the influence of any factors, and the autoimmune type is the result of the circulation of autoantibodies in the blood, responsible for the release of histamine.
So, autoimmune urticaria in 70% of cases can be provoked by thyroiditis of the thyroid gland, diabetes, lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, anemia, vitiligo and other autoimmune diseases.
Sometimes nervous urticaria is included in this group of causes. But at the moment this is not true, since slightly different processes occur during nervous stress.
Hormones
It is not surprising that urticaria appears in women an order of magnitude more often than in men. This is due to the hormonal background. The hormonal type can be with the use of oral contraceptives, with menopause or pregnancy. In rare cases, rashes appear in the second half of the menstrual cycle and are associated with the development of an allergy to progesterone and estrogen. The treatment of such a complex disease is very difficult for a woman's body, since the only help in this case is the artificial suppression of ovarian function or their removal.
There is no need to drag postpartum symptoms here. Urticaria after childbirth can occur as a reaction to medications, stress and overexertion of the body. Only a quarter of cases of urticaria are associated with hormonal changes in the body.
Food intolerance
In fact, an allergic reaction to food is much less common than doctors are treated with such an assumption.
False urticaria most often occurs, the cause of which is a food allergen. Here we are talking more about the exacerbation of a chronic disease when using certain foods. That is, food provokes urticaria, but is not its source. Based on this, a special hypoallergenic diet, as in the case of a true allergic reaction, alleviates the symptoms of the disease.
The same applies to allergic reactions to drugs. The rash may worsen when taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (diclofenac, etc.) or acetylsalicylic acid.
Other factors
Some factors in the development of this disease have not yet been identified. For example, Schnitzler's syndrome, which, along with skin rashes, is manifested by arthritis, fever, and bone pain.
Sometimes there is a relationship between the appearance of urticaria and diseases of the organs of the hepatobiliary system and the gastrointestinal tract. In other words, inflammation of the gallbladder and bile ducts, liver disease, stomach and duodenal ulcers, gastritis - can be causes of urticaria.
How to cure hives? This issue is becoming more and more relevant. This is due to the growing trend of allergic diseases, both in children and adults. Allergy often begins to appear only in adulthood, despite the fact that the body is sensitized with the allergen throughout life. This often happens with veterinarians who have been working with animals for many years or with workers in hazardous industries. Treatment of urticaria in adults takes place in several stages: identifying the causes, taking antihistamines, taking toxin-removing agents, and treating affected skin areas.
Antihistamine injections are used to treat hives
What are the symptoms of this disease
Clinical symptoms of urticaria:
- a characteristic feature is red rashes on the body, may be in the form of blisters;
- intolerable itching;
- fever;
- vomit;
- headaches, shortness of breath;
- bronchospasm.
Signs of urticaria largely depend on its causes. The acute form is manifested by the sharp appearance of a rash on large areas of the body. This is a consequence of a new allergen entering the body, so it can pass in a couple of hours. If the cause of the rash is exposure to sunlight, then swelling and blisters appear, plus damage to the mucous membranes. In people with pathological disorders of the liver, the course of the disease causes the appearance of nodules on the folds of the limbs, which eventually turn into papules. There is also an increased sensitivity to sunlight. Possible anaphylactic shock.
Giant urticaria is a lesion of the skin accompanied by fever, diarrhea, fever. The risk of Quincke's edema is very high, since the lesion reaches the mucous membranes and causes their swelling. In the chronic form, the manifestation of urticaria is paroxysmal and has a certain periodicity. Occurs due to a violation in the metabolic processes of the body. How to treat hives in adults? The first task is to find out the reasons. The appearance of urticaria is due to much more serious processes in the body. The rash is already a consequence. Having cured the cause, you can also remove the effect, therefore, in children and adults, treatment is mandatory. Why urticaria appears:
- due to allergic reactions;
- pathologies of the liver and kidneys also lead to such manifestations;
- unstable work of the gastrointestinal tract, can often provoke urticaria such a disease as gastritis;
- nervous shock or exhaustion of the body, overwork, lack of sleep;
- temperature fluctuations, ecological situation, harmful work;
- drug urticaria provoked by medication;
- insect bites can provoke not only hives, but swelling of the respiratory tract;
- against the background of hormonal disorders or changes in the body (adolescence, pregnancy, menopause);
- helminthiasis, HIV, syphilis, autoimmune diseases.
Long-term medication can cause hives
Treatment Methods
How to quickly cure hives? It cannot be done very quickly. It all depends on why the urticaria occurs.
General therapy involves taking antihistamines. They are available in various forms: tablets, injections, inhalers.
List of some antiallergic drugs: citrine, claritin, edem, diazolin, loratadine and its analogues, diphenhydramine.
In order for the body to be cleansed of toxins, the use of enterosorbents is indicated. And you will also need to take funds that improve bowel function - these are:
- pancreazim;
- mezim.
Urticaria often manifests itself during exacerbations of chronic gastritis, so you need funds that will be mild and help the stomach recover: almagel or gastrophyte.
In rare cases, when urticaria is provoked by an overdose of medications, gastric lavage is performed. When the rash appears due to nervous disorders, then urticaria is treated for a very long time.
With this course of the disease, sedative drugs, antidepressants, vitamin complexes are indicated. Sedative drugs are prescribed to almost all patients with this ailment, because the manifestations of itching, headache, and nausea themselves cause sleep disorders.
Pancreazim will improve bowel function
Anaphylaxis, laryngeal edema
This manifestation is very scary because swelling of the mucous membranes quickly occurs, blood pressure drops, the heart begins to function poorly. Due to suffocation, consciousness leaves the patient. Even coma is possible. In this case, the person needs urgent help. At the first symptoms, you need to call an ambulance. Lay the patient down with his legs slightly elevated. If possible, inject a cube of adrenaline intramuscularly. Usually such manifestations of urticaria in people who have long suffered from allergies and are also aware of possible attacks. Therefore, they should have medicines with them that will help provide assistance until the ambulance arrives.
Chronic relapsing disease
The causes of this form do not differ from the acute form. Blisters become infected. Symptoms of recurrent urticaria:
- diarrhea;
- pain in the joints;
- temperature rise;
- disorders of the nervous system.
When will the rash go away? A very large number of people are faced with unpleasant rashes on the skin of a different nature. Basically, it's hives. And everyone is interested: how long will it continue to pour? Urticaria is one of the most complex diseases, so it is unlikely that it will be possible to immediately answer the question. Acute urticaria, which appeared for the first time, can go away within two hours after contact with the irritant. The chronic form implies a long course, often seasonal.
The recurrent form may appear after four weeks of ineffective treatment of chronic urticaria, so it all depends on how carefully the patient will monitor his regimen and follow the instructions.
One of the important stages of treatment is the treatment of directly affected areas of the skin. This should be done without fail to prevent secondary infection. Sometimes the rash causes itching, which is simply impossible to endure. Ointments are applied to the affected areas in a thin layer two to four times a day. They are divided into hormonal and non-hormonal.
The first are shown at very strong manifestations. According to the principle of action, they do not differ much, they have one goal - to remove puffiness and itching. Hormonal ointments: advantan, diprosalik, prednisolone, hydrocortisone, histane-N.
- zinc ointment;
- nezulin;
- bepanthen;
- psilo balm.
Psilo-Balm does not contain hormones
contact view
One of the types of disease that I would like to dwell on is contact urticaria. The name speaks very eloquently. Development occurs due to direct contact of the skin or mucous membranes with allergens. Urticaria contact causes of appearance:
- latex (gloves, condoms);
- various chemicals (detergents, bleach, caustic substances);
- plants;
- cosmetics;
- animals;
- Food.
This type is manifested under the influence of immune or non-immune mechanisms. Contact urticaria and how to treat it: The allergen that causes the reaction should be eliminated. Absorption of a large volume of liquid is recommended, sometimes even a laxative and antihistamines are prescribed. Ointments and creams to relieve symptoms are also important. And do not forget that you need a hypoallergenic diet.
By itself, this type of urticaria is not dangerous, it is treated very quickly. However, it can lead to laryngeal edema and suffocation if the cause is not eliminated in time and sensitization to the allergen continues.
Latex gloves can cause harmless hives
Autoimmune form
What causes autoimmune urticaria? Cell regeneration takes place. The body ceases to recognize its native cells, and the work of the immune system is directed to their destruction. Thus, infection with various groups of viruses occurs, because the work of the body is aimed at self-destruction. This type of urticaria is the most dangerous. Diseases of this form often go unnoticed in the initial stages. And when irreversible processes are reached, the treatment is already useless.
Autoimmune urticaria symptoms and treatment: contribute to the appearance of this pathology:
- infections of various types;
- pathological changes in the endocrine system;
- tumor;
- taking food supplements;
- sarcoidosis, amyloidosis.
External symptoms are no different. The main difference is the reason. A characteristic feature is the seasonality of the rash.
An indispensable condition for treatment is a diet, and a special lifestyle after a course of treatment, because it is impossible to cure this disease, because the treatment of concomitant diseases involves the rejection of a large number of medications.
The treatment time for an attack of urticaria will take from three months. Predominantly prescribed drugs of the third generation.
Dietary Supplements Can Cause Autoimmune Urticaria
papular urticaria
A characteristic feature is the further transformation of blisters into papules. Causes: bites of some insects, rarely pathology of the liver.
Papular urticaria treatment:
- elimination of the irritant;
- taking antihistamines;
- droppers for blood purification;
- ointments and creams - a very effective remedy for insect bites fenistil gel, cooling compresses.
The main danger of this type of manifestation is very severe itching, which is almost impossible to endure. Combing blisters, the patient is at risk of earning an additional infection. The constant appearance of more and more papules leads to a very long treatment, sometimes even up to several months.
Traditional medicine in the fight against the disease
Although many people say that there was no allergy before, there are still a lot of traditional medicine that are designed to help in the fight against this serious illness. It's just that no one knew what it was called before. Medicinal therapy with herbs and decoctions is indicated only for a certain circle of people, and only the attending physician can prescribe these drugs in combination with other medicines.
Urticaria - treatment with folk methods effectively and quickly. One such method for cleansing the intestines is castor oil. It acts like a passerby.
- Several times a day, you can drink a decoction of celandine. This will help to disinfect the stomach.
- Salicylic acid or menthol solution perfectly relieve itching. It is recommended to soak the affected areas.
- Nettle is used in the form of teas and decoctions. Take orally and make lotions.
- Baths with decoctions of oak bark or marjoram will help relieve inflammation and itching.
- Soothing herbs such as mint, lemon balm, valerian, echinacea will help not only restore the nervous system, but also gently relieve the symptoms of hives.
Echinacea soothes and strengthens the body
Can it be cured or is it for life
To understand whether it is possible to recover, you need to clearly understand what urticaria is. On the one hand, everything seems to be clear and simple. This is a rash that appears as a result of exposure to the body of an irritant from the inside or outside. Yes, it is very easy to remove the allergen and that's it. But, sometimes there are factors beyond the patient's control. Allergic reactions are divided into:
- controlled - these are reactions to allergens that can be easily excluded from your environment;
- uncontrolled, reaction to dust or animals: dust is everywhere and animals walk on the street, so this type of allergy is not subject to strict control.
In connection with this turn of events, it is simply impossible to say how long an adult will be treated for urticaria.
You can stop the symptoms, but sooner or later the body will again encounter an irritant and the rash will begin to appear on the body again. Therefore, you should not believe that you can be cured in a matter of days by taking antihistamines.
If these are manifestations in connection with the pathology of the development of internal organs, then even more so one should not think that you can quickly get rid of the disease. If you put the question correctly - how long can the rash on the body be, then it's a completely different matter. It already depends on the degree of manifestation. On average, from two hours to several months.
You can't get rid of allergies to cats and other animals
Why does it appear in adults, what diseases accompany it
There is a urticaria not only of an allergic nature. There are many causes and diseases that can be hidden behind it:
- as a result of violations of the digestive processes, gastric juice enters the intestine;
- helminthiasis;
- metabolic disorders;
- complications after childbirth;
- Bowen's disease;
- disturbed metabolism.
With hives in an adult, the following foods should be excluded from the diet: fish, honey, caviar, caffeine; those that cause allergies and sweets are not recommended from fruits.
What can be included in the diet:
- green fruits;
- some vegetables;
- dairy products;
- cereals: buckwheat, rice, oatmeal, barley;
- lean meat;
- natural sugar.
Reception of vitamin complexes is shown. These complexes are also prescribed taking into account the characteristics of each individual patient. Basically, these are B vitamins, vitamin C, A, PP.
Green fruits can be included in your daily diet
Complementary Therapies
How to treat urticaria in adults yet? Blood purification: plasmapheresis, ultraviolet radiation, hemooxygenation, hemosorption, laser plasma cleaning. Cleansing the blood with folk methods and physiotherapy methods.
Plasma purification methods are a cause of stumbling among scientists, so the feasibility of these methods has not been proven. There may be side effects, but what remedy does not have them? In emergency cases, such methods remain the only possible option to save the patient's life.
Conclusions and preventive measures
One of the most common diseases is urticaria in adults: everyone should know the symptoms, treatment and prevention in order not to run into problems.
The causes of this disease are many and far from always they are allergic in nature. Appearing in the form of itchy blisters, localized anywhere on the human body, including the scalp. The most acceptable method of treatment is to eliminate the irritant. However, it is not always possible to identify it, and sometimes it is simply impossible to avoid it.
Hence the conclusion that it is possible to stop the symptoms, undergo a course of treatment, but sooner or later the rash will reappear. If this is an allergic factor, you can undergo specific allergen immunotherapy, after which there is ten or even more years of remission.
Prevention: as such, there is no prevention, because urticaria occurs abruptly and never announces when it can appear. There are some factors that can reduce the risks, but do not guarantee that there will be no manifestations.
- Overheating and hypothermia must be avoided. It is better to gradually begin to harden the body. Thus, the immune system will get stronger, and the body will get used to the changes and will not react to them. Only after consultation with a doctor.
- Clothing and shoes should not hamper movement, rub or crush.
- With solar urticaria, avoid being in direct sunlight.
- If possible, exclude contact with the irritant, or limit these contacts as much as possible.
- If there was contact with the allergen, give up physical activity on that day. Otherwise, you can provoke an attack of suffocation.
- Dieting. Gradually, after an exacerbation, you can introduce other foods into the diet. However, it is still worth sticking to proper nutrition. Avoid fast food, mayonnaise and other similar products. There are a lot of tasty healthy dishes.
The most important thing to remember is that you cannot treat yourself. And no matter how much you want to cure hives quickly, you need to be patient. This rash can be a harbinger of such consequences as Quincke's edema and anaphylaxis.
These consequences cause great harm to health, so you need to be treated on time.