Hives like bug bites: Hives Information | Mount Sinai

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What do hives look and feel like?

Written by: Bronwen Watson

Reviewed by: Dr Tamlyn Maree

Hives (Urticaria)

What causes or triggers hives?

Types of hives

What do hives look and feel like?

What are the risk factors for hives?

How are hives diagnosed?

What is the treatment for hives?

Can hives be prevented?

What other conditions may mimic hives?

Signs and symptoms of hives

Think you may be suffering from hives? Here’s how to recognise the signs and symptoms. ..

Welts or wheals can be small or large, ring-shaped (or roughly oval), and even take on more random blotchy or worm-like shapes. Hives can also resemble insect bites, such as those from a mosquito. ⁽⁷⁾Hives may be red and inflamed (or with a red flare / halo), but can also appear as smooth raised, flesh-coloured bumps or markings.

If pressed, markings may pale and turn white (become ‘blanched’). Hives may grow larger (or merge together and create larger patches), occur in batches or clusters, spread to other portions of the body or change in shape too.

Flare-ups can itch, burn or sting (ranging from mild to intense), swell, disappear and reappear (forming new markings where previous ones have faded) within a short space of time or as a reaction runs its course. Flare-ups can happen multiple times in a day, or alternatively during the course of weeks or months.

Hives can affect any and every portion of the body ⁽⁸⁾, but are more common on the facial area, neck, arms, fingers, hands, legs, toes and feet.

Chronic hives can be a little more troublesome and affect a person’s normal habits, such as daily activities or ability to sleep comfortably. Swelling of the lips, eyelids (which may be swollen shut), tongue and throat (angioedema) can be quite painful often causing a burning sensation (this is not normally itchy), and not always symmetrical.

When to consult a doctor about hives outbreaks

In general, most instances of acute or chronic hives are mild and non-threatening, with flare-ups resolving themselves. When a hive outbreak affects the tongue or throat, breathing difficulties can occur.

Serious allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis can affect the entire body (causing breathing difficulty, difficulty swallowing, severe swelling of the tongue, lips, mouth lining, eyelids, throat, and dizziness) and must be attended to by a medical professional urgently. Swelling can quickly affect the airways, causing a loss of consciousness if not attended to quickly enough. Anaphylaxis is considered a medical emergency and can be life-threatening.

If symptoms of hives are severe or continue for several days, it is best to consult a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

It is best to seek medical treatment as soon as possible if any other symptoms develop, such as:

Nausea and vomiting

Abdominal pain

Respiratory stridor (noisy or strained breathing) and wheezing

Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Body weakness

Light-headedness or fainting (loss of consciousness)

Cold and clammy skin

A sudden feeling of intense anxiety

Wheezing

Tightness in the chest

Trouble sleeping

Low blood pressure and shock

How to tell the difference between hives and psoriasis

Some characteristics of both hives and psoriasis are similar, but the two conditions are not the same. Psoriasis is classified as an autoimmune skin condition whereby cells rapidly accumulate to form thick skin lesions and plaques (scales). As an immune-related condition, psoriasis is also not a contagious disease ⁽⁹⁾, and is mostly triggered by stress, injury to the skin, infections (such as strep throat), foodstuffs (like red meat or dairy products), certain medications (such as those containing lithium or some high blood pressure drugs) or extreme cold weather conditions.

Mild or severe outbreaks result in inflamed or red scaly lesions, and skin that is dry and or / cracked can sometimes bleed. Skin may also itch, burn or become painful. Nails may also thicken, ridge or become pitted. Affected skin areas may also affect the joints, causing swelling and stiffness.

So, what are the differences?

Hives: Bumps are raised and smooth, appear suddenly, come and go (disappear and reappear) and seldom rupture and bleed (unless itching is extreme).

Psoriasis: Bumps are usually scaly and have a silvery coating, appear gradually, linger for weeks or months at a time, and often bleed.

A person may be more prone to hives if they have existing food allergies, are under a fair amount of stress or have sensitive skin. Those who experience flare-ups of psoriasis generally have a family history of the condition, experience chronic levels of intense stress, smoke, are overweight or who generally have a weak or compromised immune system.

References:

^{7. Victoria State Government – Better Health Channel. April 2017. Hives: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/hives [Accessed 29.08.2018]}

^{8. Sydney Children’s Hospital Network. October 2014. Urticaria (Hives) Factsheet: https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/files/factsheets/hives_urticaria_-en.pdf [Accessed 29.08.2018]}

^{9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. June 2018. What is Psoriasis?: https://www.cdc.gov/psoriasis/index.htm [Accessed 29.08.2018]}

Papular Urticaria: Symptoms, Causes, and More

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Medically reviewed by Sarah Taylor, M. D., FAAD — By Lana Bandoim — Updated on October 6, 2018

Overview

Papular urticaria is an allergic reaction to insect bites or stings. The condition causes itchy red bumps on the skin. Some bumps can become fluid-filled blisters, called vesicles or bullae, depending on size.

Papular urticaria is more common in children between the ages of 2 and 10. It can affect adults and children at any age, however.

Keep reading to learn more about this condition.

Papular urticaria usually appears as itchy, red bumps or blisters on top of the skin. Some blisters can appear in clusters on the body. The bumps are usually symmetrically distributed, and each bump is usually between 0.2 and 2 centimeters in size.

Papular urticaria can appear on any part of the body. The bumps and blisters can disappear and reappear on the skin. After a blister disappears, it sometimes leaves behind a dark mark on the skin.

Symptoms usually appear in the late spring and summer. The lesions of papular urticaria can last for days to weeks before clearing up. Since the rash can disappear and reappear, symptoms can recur for weeks or months. The bumps can reappear because of new insect bites and stings, or continued environmental insect exposure.

Sometimes secondary infections appear because of scratching. Scratching the itchy bumps and blisters can break open the skin. That increases your risk for infection.

Papular urticaria is not contagious. It can appear because of an allergic reaction to the presence of insects. Some of the common causes of papular urticaria are bites from:

mosquitoes
fleas (the most common cause)
mites
carpet beetles
bed bugs

Learn more: How to get rid of bed bugs »

The condition is more common among children between the ages of 2 and 10. Papular urticaria is not as common among adults, but it can occur in anyone.

You may want to see a doctor so that they can rule out other medical conditions. Your doctor may do a skin examination or skin biopsy to determine the cause of the bumps and blisters.

If a secondary infection is present because of scratching, then it may be necessary to see a doctor immediately.

You can take several measures to prevent papular urticaria from occurring. The first is to eliminate the source of the problem. The second is to regularly check for insect infestations and treat them.

Use pesticide and insecticide treatments to reduce populations of mosquitoes and other insects around your house.
Use flea control medications and treatments on pets and livestock.
Use bug sprays on children and adults that are safe and recommended by a doctor.
Wear protective clothing when outside or in areas with large insect populations.
Limit the amount of time you spend in areas with a lot of insects.
Consider using insecticide-treated bed nets and clothing in areas with many mosquitoes.
Eliminate bed bug infestations in the home.
Regularly inspect pets and livestock for fleas and mites. Take immediate action to treat them.
Give pets frequent baths.
Wash all bedding and cloth items that pets sleep on to reduce risk for infestations.
Vacuum the entire indoor area of your home to pick up fleas, flea eggs, and other insects. Carefully dispose of the vacuum bags to avoid reintroducing the insects into the environment.
Avoid keeping chickens or pet birds in the home because of the risk of mites.

Learn more: How to get rid of fleas »

Papular urticaria is likely to recur. The condition can return because of continued exposure to the allergen. Children can sometimes outgrow it by building a tolerance.

After repeated exposure, the reactions may stop. This varies from person to person, and it can take weeks, months, or years to stop.

Papular urticaria is not a contagious disease. It usually appears as itchy, red bumps and blisters on the skin after an insect exposure. There are several treatment options for the symptoms, but the condition can resolve on its own over time.

Last medically reviewed on May 5, 2017

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Lim D, et al. (2015). Papular urticaria.
dermcoll.edu.au/atoz/papular-urticaria/
Papular urticaria. (2016).
pcds.org.uk/clinical-guidance/papular-urticaria
Urticaria, papular. (2006).
rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/urticaria-papular/

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Oct 6, 2018

Written By

Lana Bandoim

Edited By

Charles Chen

May 5, 2017

Medically Reviewed By

Sarah Taylor, M. D., FAAD

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Medically reviewed by Sarah Taylor, M.D., FAAD — By Lana Bandoim — Updated on October 6, 2018

Causes of hives and effective treatments

Contents

1 Urticaria: causes and effective treatment
- 1.1 Causes of hives
- 1.2 How hives manifest
- 1.3 Food Allergy as a cause of urticaria
- 1.4 Contact allergens causing urticaria
- 1.5 Medicines that can cause urticaria
- 1.6 Diagnosis of urticaria
- 1. 7 How to avoid urticaria attacks?
- 1.8 Treatment of urticaria with antihistamines
- 1.9 Treatment of urticaria with hormones
- 1.10 General recommendations for the treatment of urticaria
  - 1.10.1 1. Avoid contact with the allergen
  - 1.10.2 2. Take antihistamines
  - 1.10.3 3. Use local remedies
  - 1.10.4 4. Watch your diet
  - 1.10.5 Foods to avoid:
  - 1.10.6 Foods that can boost immunity and reduce symptoms:
- 1.11 Home remedies for hives
  - 1.11.1 1. Cool skin
  - 1.11.2 2. Use oatmeal
  - 1.11.3 3. Apply aloe faith
  - 1.11.4 4. Drink tea from nettle
- 1.12 Related videos:
- 1.13 Q&A:
  - - 1.13.0.1 What factors can cause urticaria?
    - 1.13.0.2 What are the symptoms associated with urticaria?
    - 1.13.0.3 How can urticaria be prevented?
    - 1.13.0.4 What is the most effective treatment for urticaria?
    - 1. 13.0.5 Can urticaria go away on its own?
    - 1.13.0.6 Can urticaria affect health in the long term?

Find out what urticaria is, what factors cause it to appear and learn how to properly treat this disease thanks to our article.

Urticaria is a disease that manifests itself in the form of a rash on the skin and severe itching. Although hives are temporary in most cases, they can cause great discomfort and discredit the skin. The causes of urticaria can be very diverse, and understanding them will help you understand the symptoms of this disease.

Urticaria can be caused by both external factors and internal mechanisms. External causes can be food ingredients, drugs, chemicals, sunlight, and more. Internal factors may be associated with disorders in the digestive and immune systems, as well as with the presence of allergic reactions.

At the first signs of urticaria, you should immediately contact a dermatologist who will help you to clarify the causes of the disease and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Effective treatment of urticaria involves both systemic therapy and symptom management. Depending on the cause of the disease, antihistamines, a course of diuretics and antibiotics may be prescribed. Creams, gels, and ointments may also be used to relieve itching and symptomatic hives.

In this article, we will talk about the possible provoking factors of hives and methods of its effective treatment, which will help you avoid discomfort and restore the health of the skin.

Causes of urticaria

Urticaria is an allergic reaction of the body, which manifests itself in the form of a skin rash with characteristic formations like tumors on the skin. There are many factors that can cause hives. The main ones are:

Food allergens: eating certain foods (nuts, dairy products, eggs, etc.) can cause a reaction in the body and lead to hives.
Medications: Certain medications may cause an allergic reaction such as hives.
Insect stings: Stings from bees, wasps, ants and other insects may cause a hives reaction.
Contact with allergens: Substances such as latex or certain metals may cause an allergic reaction such as urticaria on contact with the skin.

It is important to note that urticaria can be caused not only by one of these factors, but also by a combination of several of them. If symptoms of urticaria occur, you should seek help from a doctor who will determine the cause of its occurrence and prescribe the necessary treatment.

How urticaria manifests itself

Urticaria is a skin disease that manifests itself in the form of red spots and severe itching. It can occur in both children and adults. The manifestations of urticaria can be very diverse.

The main symptom of urticaria is red spots that can appear on any area of the body. These spots can be small or large, and their shape can be different – round, oval or indefinite. Skin patches may be solid or have jagged edges.

Another symptom of hives is intense itching, which can be very uncomfortable. The itching can be so intense that patients may feel very uncomfortable. Itching may be worse at night and may lead to severe sleep disturbances.

Urticaria can be easily detected by the following symptoms:
– red spots on the skin;
– itching at the sites of injury;
– rush of blood to the affected area.

Food allergy as a cause of urticaria

Urticaria is an allergic disease that is manifested by skin rashes, itching and redness. One of the causes of this ailment may be a food allergy caused by the body’s reaction to certain foods.

Food allergens can cause an immune system response. This happens when the body perceives certain components of products, such as proteins, as hostile. As a result, hives may occur, as well as other unpleasant symptoms.

Urticaria usually appears on various parts of the body, especially on the skin of the face, neck and hands. In this case, skin rashes can have various shapes and sizes. Some manifestations of hives may pass quickly, but in some cases, symptoms may persist for several days.

To treat hives caused by a food allergy, it is necessary to diagnose and find out which food caused the allergic reaction. Further treatment may include taking antihistamines, helping with diet choices, and eliminating foods that are allergens from the diet.

Urticaria contact allergens

Urticaria is an allergic disease that can be caused by various substances. One of the main causes of hives are contact allergens. They can be found in various items that we use in everyday life.

Contact allergens can also be found in clothing and footwear. Especially often urticaria occurs when using synthetic fabrics and wearing uncomfortable shoes. In this case, the reaction manifests itself at the points of contact with the skin.

Contact allergens that can cause hives:
Dyes
Preservatives
Metals (e. g. nickel)
Latex
Steam fumeria
Synthetic fabrics
Uncomfortable shoes

Drugs that can cause urticaria

Urticaria is an allergic reaction of the body to various factors. One of the causes of hives can be drugs.

Some medicines, such as antibiotics, aspirin, antipyretics, and many others, can cause an allergic reaction in humans.

It is very important to be under medical supervision and take your medicines correctly. If you notice hives while taking any medication, contact your doctor immediately.

If the urticaria is caused by drugs, then you need to stop taking them. Your doctor may recommend taking antihistamines to reduce the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Never take medicine without a doctor’s prescription.
If you have an allergic reaction to any medicines, tell your doctor or pharmacist before buying new ones.
If you develop hives while taking medication, stop taking it immediately and contact your doctor.

Examples of drugs that cause urticaria Drug Potential effect on the body

Aspirin	Allergic reaction, urticaria
Antibiotics	Allergic reaction, urticaria
Analgesics	Allergic reaction, urticaria

Diagnosis of urticaria

To diagnose urticaria, the doctor performs a visual examination of the skin and asks the patient about symptoms. However, since hives can be caused by a variety of factors, your doctor may order additional tests.

Your blood may also be tested for certain substances that your body produces in response to allergens. This allows you to determine the presence of an allergic reaction in the body.

Additional methods for diagnosing urticaria Test method Description

Dermatoscopy	Allows you to study the characteristics of skin elements and detect changes in skin texture and color.
Skin biopsy	Allows you to study the structure of the skin and determine the presence of inflammatory and allergic processes.
Ultrasound of the abdominal organs	Allows you to identify diseases of the digestive system that can cause urticaria.

The process of diagnosing urticaria can be complex and require several tests. However, correct diagnosis is an important step towards effective treatment and prevention of recurrence of urticaria.

How to avoid attacks of urticaria?

The first step in avoiding hives is to determine the cause. If the urticaria is caused by a reaction to a certain food substance, avoid its consumption. If you know you need to take new medications, talk to your doctor about the risks first.

The next important step is to improve overall health and immunity. Include more fruits, vegetables and healthy protein foods in your diet. Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Exercise regularly and get enough sleep. All this will help improve your health and protect against bouts of hives.

If you know you are at risk for hives, have some medication ready. For example, antihistamines can help manage the symptoms of hives. Also, at the first sign of a hives attack, avoid heat and sun exposure. It can also help reduce the intensity of symptoms and avoid complications.

Avoid foods that cause allergies
Boost your health and immunity
Prepare medicines in advance
Avoid heat and sunlight at the first sign of hives

Treatment of urticaria with antihistamines

Urticaria is one of the most common allergic diseases that can occur in any person, regardless of age and gender. The most common causes of its occurrence are foods, medicines, plant pollen, house dust, insects, cold and sun.

There are three generations of antihistamines, differing in the speed of onset of action and duration of effect. First generation drugs (diphenhydramine, suprastin) have a strong sedative effect and can cause vision problems. Second-generation drugs (claritin, zodak, fenistil) do not cause a strong sedative effect, but can lead to dry mouth and heart rhythm disturbances. Third-generation drugs (cetirizine, fexofenadine, levocetirizine) do not have a sedative and cardiotoxic effect.

For more effective treatment of urticaria, antihistamines should be taken at the doctor’s prescription and in the doses indicated in the instructions for the drug. It is also important to avoid contact with the allergen that causes hives.

Hormonal treatment of urticaria

Urticaria is a skin condition that can cause severe itching, redness and swelling. The basis of this disease is an allergic reaction, which can be caused by various factors – from food to drugs. Hormonal drugs may be used to treat hives, especially when other methods have failed.

Hormonal preparations can be used in the form of ointments, creams and tablets. They affect the body’s response to allergens and reduce inflammation. However, it is necessary to use such drugs only as prescribed by a doctor and under his control. Long-term use of hormonal drugs can cause various side effects and lead to imbalance of hormones in the body.

If the condition worsens with the use of hormonal drugs, it is necessary to consult a doctor and reconsider the treatment regimen. In addition, it is important to remember that hormonal drugs can suppress the immune system, which can lead to other problems and complications. Therefore, when using hormonal drugs, you must be careful and follow all the doctor’s recommendations.

General recommendations for the treatment of urticaria

1. Avoid exposure to the allergen

Treatment for urticaria often begins with avoidance of exposure to the substance causing the allergic reaction. If you know you are allergic to a certain product, drug, or substance, avoid using it. You should also avoid thermal treatments that can worsen the symptoms of hives, such as hot water and heavy massage.

2. Take antihistamines

Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, fenistil, and others can quickly relieve symptoms of hives, such as itching and swelling. These medications block sources of histamine, a substance that causes allergic reactions in the body. But don’t overuse them, as many of them can cause drowsiness and other side effects.

3. Use topical medications

One effective treatment for urticaria is the use of topical medications such as hormonal and non-hormonal creams, ointments and gels. These drugs reduce skin inflammation and reduce itching. But do not overuse such medicines and do not use them without a doctor’s prescription.

4. Watch your diet

Avoid foods that can cause an allergic reaction. Causes of hives can be related to certain foods, allergenic plants, and even sunlight. Watch your diet and make sure you’re getting enough of the vitamins and nutrients you need to keep your skin and body healthy.

Foods to avoid:

Seafood
Nuts and seeds
Chocolate
Red or orange fruits and vegetables
Berries
Honey
Alcohol

90 039

Foods that can boost immunity and reduce symptoms:

Celery
Leafy green vegetables
Garlic
Oatmeal
Fish
Dairy products

Home Remedies for Urticaria

1.

Cool Skin

One quick way to relieve itching and redness in hives is to cool the skin. Apply a cool compress to the affected area or take a cool shower. Avoid hot baths or showers as they can aggravate symptoms.

2. Use oatmeal

Oatmeal is great for relieving itching and redness. Blend oatmeal into a powder and add some water to make a paste. Apply this paste on the affected areas of the skin and leave on for 10-15 minutes. Wash off the residue with water.

3. Apply aloe vera

Aloe vera is another effective remedy for itching and redness in hives. Cut open an aloe vera leaf and spread its pulp over the affected areas. Leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with water. You can also use aloe vera gel, which you can buy at the pharmacy.

4. Drink nettle tea

Nettle tea contains antihistamine properties that may help relieve the symptoms of hives. Brew tea from dry or fresh nettle leaves, cool and drink as needed.

It is important to remember that home remedies can help relieve hives, but they do not replace medical advice or treat the underlying cause.
If symptoms of urticaria persist for more than 24-48 hours or worsen, seek medical attention.
Avoid possible allergens and follow the treatment your doctor has prescribed.

Q&A:

What factors can cause urticaria?

Urticaria can result from various factors such as an allergic reaction to food, medicine, insects, contact with a plant or chemical, infection, stress, etc.

What are the symptoms associated with urticaria?

The main symptom of urticaria is a skin rash that can cause itching, burning, redness, swelling and a feeling of warmth. Sometimes accompanied by general malaise, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, etc.

How can urticaria be prevented?

Avoid contact with allergens such as dust, pollen, insects, drugs, certain foods, etc. to prevent hives. It is also important to follow a proper diet and strengthen the immune system.

What is the most effective treatment for urticaria?

Treatment for urticaria should be prescribed by a doctor, depending on its cause and symptoms. This may include taking antihistamines, using creams and ointments, using steroids, or using immunotherapy in severe cases.

Can urticaria go away on its own?

Yes, most hives go away on their own within a few days or weeks. However, if the symptoms do not disappear for a long time or worsen, you should consult a doctor.

Can urticaria affect health in the long term?

In most cases, urticaria will not affect health in the long term. However, if it becomes chronic and is not treated, it can affect the patient’s quality of life and cause other diseases.

Urticaria or urticaria | Ida-Tallinna Keskaigla

The purpose of this leaflet is to provide the patient with information about the nature of urticaria, its causes and treatment options.

Urticaria is one of the most common skin diseases. During life, it is observed in about a fifth of people. Urticaria appears as bright red blisters that usually appear very quickly. As a rule, the rash is accompanied by itching. The blisters can range in size from a few millimeters to several tens of centimeters, and they can be from one to several hundred. The blisters stay in one place for a maximum of one day, usually several hours. Then they disappear, but new blisters may appear elsewhere.

Half of people with urticaria may develop edema, or angioedema . Edema develops suddenly and is usually observed on the lips, eyelids and genitals. Less commonly, swelling of the tongue and throat may occur. Edema persists from 24 to 72 hours. Angioedema involving the digestive and respiratory systems can be life-threatening.

Depending on the duration, urticaria can be divided into acute and chronic.

Urticaria is usually acute and lasts from a few days to a couple of weeks. Urticaria is called acute if it lasts less than six weeks.

Causes of acute urticaria may be as follows:

Infections – Viral infections are the cause of the disease in more than 80% of cases of acute urticaria in children. As a rule, urticaria lasts a week or two, then recedes.
Medications – Urticaria can be caused by many groups of drugs, such as antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.).
Insect stings – Some insect stings (bees, wasps, ants) can cause urticaria in the bite area. If, after an insect bite, urticaria develops throughout the body, you should immediately consult a doctor.
Food Allergens – Food allergies usually show up about 30 minutes after eating. The most common food allergens in children are milk, eggs, nuts, fish and wheat. In adults, food allergies are usually caused by fish, other seafood, and nuts.
Physical factors – Urticaria can be caused by certain physical factors such as heat, cold, water chemistry or solar radiation.

In chronic urticaria blisters and/or swelling occur daily or almost daily for six weeks or more, often for many years. Chronic urticaria is divided into spontaneous and induced forms. For spontaneous chronic urticaria blisters and/or swelling occur without a clear cause, often at night and in the morning.

In the case of inducible form , wheals or swelling may be triggered by pressure, cold water/air, exercise, sun, vibration, heat.

Chronic urticaria significantly impairs the quality of life – on the one hand, due to severe itching, on the other hand, due to edema and blisters with an unpredictable course. Sleep is often disturbed.

Chronic urticaria is more common in people with autoimmune diseases. Many patients with chronic urticaria do not have other comorbidities.

It is known about the causes of chronic urticaria that the disease is formed as a result of the release of certain substances from the mast cells of the skin and mucous membranes. The best known of these is histamine. Mast cells are activated by antibodies produced under the influence of certain factors of the immune system. The picture of the disease is often exacerbated by severe stress. In about a third of patients, a histamine-rich food (eg, avocado, cheese) or drink (eg, champagne, wine, beer) is an aggravating factor.

Treatment of chronic urticaria

The aim of the treatment of chronic urticaria is to treat the symptoms of the disease until it disappears.