Hives on chest and arms. Unexpected Causes of Hives: From Stress to Exercise – Understanding Urticaria
What are the surprising triggers for hives. How can you identify and manage unexpected urticaria outbreaks. When should you seek medical attention for hives. What are the connections between hives and underlying health conditions.
Understanding Hives: Symptoms and Characteristics
Hives, medically known as urticaria, are an itchy skin reaction characterized by raised, red bumps. These skin eruptions occur when histamine is released in the body, leading to various symptoms:
- Raised, itchy, and tender areas on the skin
- Round, oval, or irregular shapes
- Clearly defined borders
- Red or pink appearance on light skin
- Slightly lighter or darker than surrounding skin on darker complexions
Hives can appear anywhere on the body, ranging from tiny pinprick-sized bumps to large raised areas covering entire limbs. While the cause of hives is sometimes obvious, such as an allergic reaction to pollen or pet dander, many cases seem to arise without apparent reason.
Unexpected Triggers: Common Yet Surprising Causes of Hives
Hives can be triggered by various factors that might not immediately come to mind. Here are some unexpected causes:
Viral and Bacterial Infections
Can the common cold cause hives? Yes, colds and other viral infections can trigger hives as part of the body’s immune response. These typically appear towards the end of the illness when you’re starting to feel better. Similarly, bacterial infections like strep throat or urinary tract infections can lead to hives as the body fights off the invading pathogens.
Stress-Induced Hives
How does stress manifest on the skin? Stress can elevate body temperature and release adrenaline, potentially triggering hives. These stress-related hives often appear on the face, neck, chest, and arms, and are more common in individuals with eczema, allergies, or sensitive skin.
Temperature Changes and Hives
Can sudden temperature changes cause hives? Indeed, abrupt exposure to hot or cold temperatures, such as stepping into a steamy shower or entering a cold swimming pool, can prompt histamine release and hive formation. This condition is known as cold urticaria and often presents with a red, itchy area surrounding the hives.
Lifestyle Factors and Physical Triggers of Hives
Several everyday activities and choices can unexpectedly lead to hives:
Tight Clothing and Skin Irritation
How can your wardrobe choices affect your skin? Tight-fitting clothes can cause friction, leading to skin irritation and hives. Moreover, close-fitting garments can push bacteria on the skin surface into pores and hair follicles, potentially causing irritation.
Exercise-Induced Hives
Can working out cause skin reactions? Exercise can indeed trigger hives in some individuals. This condition, known as exercise-induced urticaria, occurs when the chemical acetylcholine is released during physical activity, affecting skin cells and causing irritation. Some people may experience additional symptoms like shortness of breath, headache, flushing, and stomach cramps.
Medical Conditions Associated with Chronic Hives
Persistent hives lasting more than six weeks may indicate underlying health issues:
Autoimmune Conditions and Hives
What chronic conditions can manifest as hives? Long-lasting hives might be a sign of autoimmune conditions such as lupus, type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease, or rheumatoid arthritis. These hives typically don’t resolve on their own and require medical evaluation.
Vasculitis and Hives
How does blood vessel inflammation affect the skin? Vasculitis, an inflammation of blood vessels, can cause painful hives that may leave bruises and persist for several days. This serious medical condition necessitates professional treatment.
Medications and Allergic Reactions: A Hidden Cause of Hives
Certain medications can trigger allergic reactions resulting in hives:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Antibiotics
- Opioids
These medication-induced hives may be the first sign of a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Other symptoms of anaphylaxis include shortness of breath, wheezing, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.
Recognizing Serious Hive Outbreaks: When to Seek Medical Care
While most hives are benign, some cases require immediate medical attention. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening emergency that demands prompt care. If you have been prescribed an EpiPen for allergies, use it immediately and call emergency services. Even without an EpiPen, contacting emergency services is crucial, as they can provide rapid treatment and transportation to a hospital.
Signs that indicate the need for emergency care include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Severe swelling, especially of the face or throat
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea and vomiting
Managing and Treating Unexpected Hive Outbreaks
While the sudden appearance of hives can be alarming, there are several strategies to manage and alleviate symptoms:
Over-the-Counter Remedies
What are effective home treatments for hives? Antihistamines are often the first line of defense against hives. Over-the-counter options like cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine can help reduce itching and swelling. For severe cases, your doctor might recommend a short course of oral corticosteroids.
Topical Treatments
How can you soothe hives externally? Applying cool compresses or taking cool baths can help relieve itching and inflammation. Calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream may also provide relief. Avoid hot showers or baths, as heat can exacerbate hives.
Lifestyle Adjustments
What daily changes can help prevent hives? Identifying and avoiding triggers is crucial. This might involve:
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques or meditation
- Wearing loose, breathable clothing
- Gradually acclimating to temperature changes
- Maintaining a consistent exercise routine to reduce exercise-induced hives
Investigating Chronic Hives: Diagnostic Approaches
For persistent or recurring hives, medical evaluation is essential to identify underlying causes:
Allergy Testing
How do doctors determine hive triggers? Skin prick tests or blood tests can help identify specific allergens that may be causing your hives. This is particularly useful for cases where the trigger isn’t immediately apparent.
Blood Work and Imaging
What tests can reveal underlying conditions? Your doctor may order blood tests to check for autoimmune markers, thyroid function, or signs of infection. In some cases, imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs might be necessary to investigate potential internal triggers.
Skin Biopsy
When is a skin sample needed? In cases of chronic or unusual hives, a dermatologist might perform a skin biopsy to examine the affected tissue more closely and rule out other skin conditions.
Long-Term Management of Recurrent Hives
For individuals prone to frequent hive outbreaks, developing a long-term management plan is crucial:
Identifying Patterns and Triggers
How can you track hive occurrences? Keeping a detailed diary of hive outbreaks, including potential triggers, duration, and accompanying symptoms, can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and develop targeted prevention strategies.
Immunotherapy
Can desensitization help with chronic hives? For some individuals with allergic triggers, immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets) may help reduce the frequency and severity of hive outbreaks over time.
Preventive Medications
What long-term medications can prevent hives? For chronic cases, your doctor might prescribe preventive medications such as daily antihistamines or leukotriene modifiers. In severe cases, biologics like omalizumab might be considered.
The Psychological Impact of Chronic Hives
Living with recurring hives can have significant emotional and social effects:
Stress and Anxiety
How do hives affect mental health? The unpredictable nature of hive outbreaks can lead to increased stress and anxiety. This, in turn, can potentially trigger more hives, creating a vicious cycle.
Social and Professional Impacts
What challenges do people with chronic hives face? Visible hives can affect self-esteem and social interactions. Some individuals may feel self-conscious or avoid certain activities due to their skin condition.
Coping Strategies
How can you manage the emotional aspects of chronic hives? Consider the following approaches:
- Joining support groups or online communities for individuals with chronic hives
- Practicing stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness or yoga
- Seeking counseling or therapy to address anxiety or depression related to your skin condition
- Educating friends, family, and colleagues about your condition to foster understanding and support
Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Hives
The field of hive treatment is continually evolving, with new research offering hope for improved management:
Targeted Therapies
What new treatments are on the horizon? Researchers are exploring more targeted therapies that focus on specific pathways involved in hive formation. These may offer more effective treatment with fewer side effects.
Microbiome Studies
How does gut health relate to skin conditions? Emerging research is investigating the relationship between the gut microbiome and chronic skin conditions, including hives. This could lead to new treatment approaches focusing on gut health.
Genetic Factors
Can genetic testing help with hive management? Studies into the genetic factors contributing to chronic hives may pave the way for personalized treatment plans based on an individual’s genetic profile.
In conclusion, while hives can be surprising and distressing, understanding their various causes and management strategies can help individuals navigate this common skin condition more effectively. From unexpected triggers like stress and exercise to potential signs of underlying health issues, being informed about hives empowers patients to seek appropriate care and develop effective long-term management plans. As research continues to advance our understanding of urticaria, new and more targeted treatments offer hope for those struggling with chronic hives.
Breaking Out in Hives for No Apparent Reason
Sometimes the source of the raised, red, and itchy bumps on your skin can be a mystery.
One reason hives can be so surprising is that they can be caused by many things you might not expect including stress and exercise. Most of these unexpected causes for hives aren’t serious, but some are a sign it’s a good idea to make a medical appointment.
Read on for more information about reasons you may have hives.
Hives are an itchy reaction on your skin. They happen when a chemical called histamine is released in your body.
They can appear anywhere on your body and can be tiny pinprick-sized bumps or large raised areas that cover an entire limb. Hives often appear red or pink on white or light skin. People with darker skin might have hives that are slightly lighter or slightly darker than the skin surrounding them.
Share on PinterestHives on dark skin.
Created by Samuel Freire da Silva, M. D. in homage to The Master And Professor Delso Bringel Calheiros. Image obtained from Dermatology Atlas
No matter the color of your hives rash, all hives share these qualities:
- raised
- itchy
- tender
- round, oval, or uneven shaped
- clearly defined border
Hives are also called urticaria. Sometimes, the cause of hives is obvious. For instance, you might have an immediate reaction to something you’re allergic to such as pollen or pet dander. However, the cause isn’t always clear. Hives can be sudden and surprising and seem to not have a cause.
Hives are a very common skin reaction that can come from some unexpected sources. Some causes you might not have thought of include:
- Colds and other viral infections. Sometimes hives can be caused by your immune system fighting colds and other viral infections. These hives often appear near the end of your cold or virus as you’re starting to feel better. They’re most common in children but can happen to anyone.
- Bacterial infections. Bacterial infections such as strep throat or urinary tract infections can also sometimes trigger hives as your body reacts to the bacteria. These hives will fade as the antibiotics help your body fight the infection. They might peel before healing completely.
- Chronic conditions such as lupus. Hives that last for longer than 6 weeks might be a sign of an autoimmune condition such as lupus, type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease, or rheumatoid arthritis. These hives won’t go away on their own. It’s a good idea to make a medical appointment to get this type of hive checked out and see if a chronic condition is the cause.
- Stress. Stress can raise your internal body temperature and release adrenalin and other chemicals that might trigger hives. Stress hives tend to be located on the face, neck, chest, and arms. They’re common in people with eczema, allergies, or sensitive skin.
- Temperature changes. Suddenly encountering hot or cold, such as stepping into a steamy shower or entering a swimming pool, can cause histamine to release and hives to form. Hives that form in response to temperature are called cold urticaria. A red and itchy area of skin often forms around these hives.
- Tight clothing. Tight clothing can cause friction that leads to irritation and to hives. Clothes that sit close to your skin can also push any bacteria on your skin surface into your pores and hair follicles.
- Exercise. A chemical called acetylcholine is released in your body when you exercise can affect your skin cells and cause irritation and hives. Exercise hives are known as exercise-induced urticaria. Some people have additional symptoms along with hives such as shortness of breath, headache, flushing, and stomach cramps.
- Inflammation of blood vessels. An inflammation of your blood vessels known as vasculitis can cause painful hives. They can leave a bruise on your skin and last for several days. Vasculitis is a serious medical condition that requires treatment by a medical professional.
- Medications. Some medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and opioids can cause an allergic reaction that leads to hives. Hives following medication might be the first sign of a medical emergency called anaphylaxis. Other symptoms of anaphylaxis include shortness of breath, wheezing, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.
Seeking emergency medical care
Hives can be a sign of anaphylaxis. This is always a medical emergency that needs immediate care. If you have been prescribed an EpiPen for an allergy, use it.
Call 911, especially if you’re having trouble breathing. If you don’t have an EpiPen, the ambulance will have epinephrine that paramedics can use to provide immediate treatment and will likely reach you much faster than having someone drive you to a hospital. Paramedics can get you to the hospital quickly and monitor your condition the entire time.
Never attempt to drive yourself to the hospital during anaphylaxis. Even if it is a very short drive, it’s not safe to attempt. You can lose consciousness rapidly.
If possible, after you call 911, keep someone with you until paramedics arrive.
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Hives are often caused by identifiable allergies. Avoiding these allergens can help you avoid breaking out in hives. Common hive triggers include:
- shellfish
- eggs
- peanuts
- milk
- berries
- citrus
- animal dander
- poison ivy and other plants
- latex
- wool, polyester, and other fabrics
- pollen
- grass
- insect stings or bites
- dust mites
- mold
- detergents and dyes
Hives can be a sign of a serious allergic reaction that needs emergency medical emergency attention. It’s important to take action if you hives along with any of these symptoms:
- wheezing
- tightness in your chest or throat
- trouble breathing
- trouble talking
- swelling in your throat, face, or tongue
- nausea
- lightheadedness
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911.
A doctor may prescribe you an epinephrine injector, such as an EpiPen, for future allergic reactions. They’ll teach you how to use it and answer any questions you might have. You’ll keep your epinephrine injector on hand and use it if you develop hives in the future.
You’ll still need to visit the emergency room after you use your epinephrine injector, but it can stop anaphylaxis from becoming deadly.
A doctor can diagnose hives and help you find the cause. They might recommend you keep a food diary to find out if there is any link between food and your hives.
You might be sent to an allergist, a doctor who specializes in treating allergies, for additional testing. This might include blood work and urine tests to look for chemicals in your body that might tell the allergists what’s causing your hives.
You might also have a skin biopsy, especially if your allergist suspects vasculitis causing your hives. Hives that have lasted for longer than 6 weeks will likely necessitate testing for underlying chronic conditions.
Sometimes, a specific cause isn’t found. In this case, your hives will be diagnosed as idiopathic urticaria. The word “idiopathic” means unknown. In this case, your doctor will still be able to help you with a treatment plan, but you won’t be able to tell what to avoid to prevent hives in the future.
Treatment for hives will depend on the severity of your hives and on the cause. For instance, you’ll need to avoid the cause of your hives if it has been found.
Your doctor will work with you to find the right treatment for you. Common options include:
- Antihistamines. Both over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines block histamine and can treat hives. You might find that certain antihistamines are more effective for you than others. Sometimes a combination of antihistamines is recommended.
- Anti-itch lotions. Lotions to calm down itching and redness can provide relief from hives and prevent scratching.
- Antibiotics. Hives that are linked to bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics
- Corticosteroids. Corticosteroids can be taken on a short-term basis to help with severe cases of hives.
Read more about hives treatment options.
Hives can sometimes be surprising and have no obvious cause. There are actually a wide variety of things that can cause hives, including stress, colds, exercise, and temperature changes. Chronic hives can point to an underlying condition such as lupus.
An allergist can help you determine the cause of your hives and start treatment.
Hives in common areas: What to know
Hives are a form of rash that can often appear when the body responds to a trigger. They can occur anywhere on the body. Hives are particularly common on the arms and legs because the limbs have more exposure to external factors.
Hives, or urticaria, are raised rashes that can develop as red or purplish spots or patches. The rashes are often itchy and uncomfortable.
Hives typically occur when mast cells, which are part of the immune system, trigger an allergic reaction by releasing histamine into the skin. Histamine is a chemical messenger that the immune system releases in response to an injury or allergic reaction.
Mast cells cause hives and control how long they remain.
A similar process known as angioedema occurs when mast cells deeper in the skin release histamine.
Hives can develop due to an allergic reaction to food, medication, or something in the environment, such as being licked by a dog or from non-allergic sources, such as infection or inflammation.
Individual hives typically go away within 24 hours. However, urticaria can persist for several weeks, even months. This can result in new hives appearing as the previous ones fade.
Hives can occur anywhere on the skin. They are particularly common in areas of the body that experience higher pressure, such as the waistline and the groin.
Read on to learn more about the causes, types, and treatments of hives.
Hives can result from:
- physical triggers, such as pressure
- allergic reactions, such as food allergies
- medical conditions, such as infection
Triggers cause the immune system to respond by sending histamines and similar chemicals into the skin, where they cause hives. Triggers can include:
- medication, such as penicillin or anti-inflammatory drugs
- food or drink, such as eggs or seafood
- bacterial infection, such as strep throat
- viral infection, such as infectious mononucleosis
- contact triggers, including latex
- insect bites or stings
- allergens in the air, such as pollen or mold spores
- physical conditions, such as cold temperature or pressure
In rare cases, urticaria can be a hereditary condition.
When hives have no known cause, they are called idiopathic urticaria.
If hives only appear on the arms or legs, they are likely the result of a physical trigger, such as extreme temperature, or a contact allergen, such as latex.
Learn about contact dermatitis here.
Urticaria can be acute or chronic.
With acute urticaria, symptoms go away within 6 weeks. However, when a person has chronic urticaria, the condition can persist for longer than this.
There are three types of chronic urticaria:
- Chronic spontaneous urticaria is where the trigger is unclear, and symptoms occur at least twice each week.
- Chronic inducible urticaria is where specific, physical triggers, such as pressure, cause hives.
- Episodic chronic urticaria can overlap with chronic inducible urticaria, but typically, symptoms appear less than twice each week.
Learn about hives on black skin here.
Treatment options include over-the-counter (OTC) medication, prescription medication, and home remedies.
OTC options include antihistamines, which people can take in higher doses than doctors typically recommend.
If OTC medication does not work, a doctor may prescribe:
- sedating antihistamines
- systemic corticosteroids for short term use
- omalizumab (the only FDA approved treatment for chronic urticaria)
- cyclosporine
However, medication may not always be necessary, as hives can go away by themselves. Home remedies that can help to ease symptoms include:
- soothing the area with a cool compress
- taking a comfortably cool bath
- avoiding tight or itchy clothing and wearing loose, cotton clothes
- avoiding particularly hot or cold temperatures
- avoiding activities that cause sweating
Learn about ways to treat hives here.
It is not always possible to prevent hives from developing on the arms and legs, as around 50% of people with chronic urticaria never find out what causes their hives to appear. However, if there is a clear trigger, the most effective preventive measure is to try to avoid it.
Learn more about hives that come and go daily here.
See a doctor if:
- hives continue to flare up for more than 6 weeks
- OTC treatment is not helping
- individuals want to check for potential allergies
Taking a photograph of hives before an appointment can help a doctor make a diagnosis, as the skin may clear up before the appointment.
If swelling underneath the skin accompanies a rash, a person may have angioedema. This condition can cause similar symptoms but requires swift treatment, as it can cause life threatening swelling that affects the ability to breathe.
Anyone who suspects they have angioedema should see a doctor for a diagnosis as soon as possible.
Severe allergic reactions can cause anaphylaxis, an extreme response that can cause a person to go into anaphylactic shock. Seek immediate medical attention if extreme symptoms develop.
Learn about the differences between urticaria and angioedema here.
Hives, or wheals, occur when the immune system sends histamines and other chemicals into the skin in response to triggers.
Urticaria can be acute, where it goes away within 6 weeks. Chronic urticaria lasts longer than this. The hives themselves disappear within 24 hours, but flare-ups may persist as new hives develop.
Physical triggers, allergic reactions, or medical conditions can cause hives, and they can develop anywhere on the body. The arms and legs are more likely to react to contact triggers, such as allergens, because they have greater exposure.
Hives can be itchy and uncomfortable, but they will generally go away on their own. Home remedies such as a cool compress can help to ease symptoms.
If urticaria symptoms continue, a doctor can suggest a treatment plan to help.
symptoms, causes, types, treatment and complications – consultation of experienced dermatologists and allergists of the MEDSI clinic
Urticaria is an allergic disease (dermatosis), which is manifested by the formation of blisters on the skin and mucous membranes. Its symptoms, according to statistics, are experienced by about 25% of the world’s population. At the same time, only 2–7% are children, the rest are adults. The onset of the disease often occurs before the age of 40. Under the condition of constant contact with the allergen, the disease becomes chronic. Pathology is dangerous because it can cause Quincke’s edema.
Classification of diseases
Urticaria can be acute and chronic.
In the first case, it is manifested by the rapid (within one hour) appearance of numerous bright pink blisters. After some time, they either disappear completely, or a second wave sets in with the formation of new ones. Chronic urticaria is characterized by a long course. Moreover, it can occur not only in contact with an allergen, but also in diseases of the liver and digestive organs.
Also, depending on the location of the rash, the following forms of urticaria are distinguished:
- Localized. In this case, the rash forms only on certain parts of the body
- Generalized. Rash spread all over body
Depending on the causes, the following types of pathology are distinguished:
- Allergic urticaria
- Endocrine
- Solar
- Cold
- Medicinal
- Infectious
- Reactogenic etc.
Urticaria in children
This pathology is also called strofulus. It usually occurs in children who are breastfed or on an age-inappropriate diet. Insect bites, contact with allergens, infectious infections, and the appearance of parasites in the body can provoke the disease. Blisters in children quickly transform into pink-brown nodules with a small bubble. The affected skin itches and itchs. Often, bloody crusts form on it. Skin folds and limbs are often affected. Gradually, the rash can spread throughout the body. Babies under 3 years of age additionally develop symptoms such as diarrhea or constipation and vomiting. If the pathology becomes chronic, the child may become drowsy and lethargic, suffer from sleep disturbances and loss of appetite. Interestingly, after 7 years, almost all children have it without a trace.
Other types of diseases
Symptoms of urticaria in some women appear before menstruation, the cause of the pathology in this case is hormonal changes. Usually, formations are noticeable on the chest and in the face area. They do not cause pronounced discomfort, they can only cause slight swelling and slight itching.
There is also a toxic form of the disease. It occurs upon contact with certain insects, animals, fish, marine life (for example, jellyfish) and plants (including poisonous ones).
Chronic sluggish urticaria can develop in the presence of a pet.
Causes of disease
Urticaria in adults and children occurs against the background of:
- Insect bites
- Use of certain drugs
- Eating new food
- Vaccinations
- Blood transfusions
- Direct contact with allergen
A rash occurs as a result of a reaction to high temperatures or cold, vibration, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, mechanical friction, etc. Infectious agents (fungi, bacteria, etc.) also lead to the development of pathology. In about 30% of patients, it is not possible to find out the causes of urticaria.
Symptoms
The main signs of a pathological condition include:
- Rash on body
- Itching
- Transformation of rash into blisters
Usually the rash is concentrated on the limbs, face and scalp. In some cases, it also appears on the mucous membranes. In addition, the symptoms of urticaria include headache and drowsiness, a feeling of weakness and nausea. In some cases, patients complain of an increase in body temperature.
Important! With a favorable course, the symptoms disappear very quickly.
If the disease has acquired a chronic form, then it is characterized by less pronounced symptoms, but a long course.
Diagnostics
Before determining how to treat hives, a doctor needs to identify its symptoms and causes. Usually, the diagnosis is made on the basis of a survey of patients and a study of clinical manifestations. If necessary, identify the allergen. For this, special tests are carried out.
Methods of treatment of urticaria in children and adults
The most effective method of therapy is to eliminate contact with the allergen. If it cannot be detected, the patient is prescribed antihistamines that prevent the risks of developing the disease.
Treatment of acute urticaria
To quickly eliminate symptoms, not only antihistamines are recommended, but also avoiding contact with household chemicals, cosmetics, perfumes and other potentially hazardous substances. Patients are also prescribed a special diet. Thanks to it, it is possible to eliminate the risks of occurrence of factors that provoke unpleasant symptoms of the disease.
The diet is selected individually, while there are general principles.
These include an exception to the diet:
- Products that can provoke an allergic reaction
- Lots of protein food
- Products that are unknown to the patient and have not been previously tried by him
- Sauces and condiments
- Complex dishes with many components (especially unknown ones)
- Alcohol
- Spicy dishes
- Pickles and marinades
It is also important for the patient to limit the consumption of table salt and sugar, to use only fresh proven products for cooking.
Even with restrictions, you need to try to make the diet as diverse as possible. It is desirable to include in it: yellow or green (not red) apples, lean meat, mild cheese, grain bread, cabbage, herbs, white currants, peas, beans.
Important! It should be understood that an allergy can occur to almost any product. Therefore, they should be introduced into the diet in small portions and a special food diary should be kept, describing in it the reactions to the use of products. This will allow you to plan a complete, but safe meal.
Treatment of chronic urticaria
Therapy requires special attention from the doctor. He needs to carefully select the initial set of drugs. It is determined by the severity of the pathology and the symptoms of the disease. If a negative reaction occurs to any of the means, the reception is immediately stopped. It is also important to cleanse the intestines and remove potentially dangerous substances from the body.
Important! The patient needs to be prepared for the fact that the treatment of urticaria is often delayed for months. In this case, there is always a chance that all symptoms will suddenly disappear.
Treatment of urticaria in children
The therapy is carried out in the same way as in adults. Special preparations are prescribed to reduce the body’s sensitivity to the allergen, remove the skin reaction and ensure the prevention of exacerbations.
Important! If necessary, gastroenterologists, gynecologists and other narrow specialists are involved in the treatment of urticaria in adults and children. This is due to the fact that in some cases the pathology develops against the background of diseases of internal organs and systems and requires an integrated multidisciplinary approach.
Prevention
Patients prone to urticaria need to reduce contact with potential allergens. It is also important to adhere to the following recommendations:
- Use antihistamines before vaccination and local anesthesia
- Keep a food diary
- Wear loose-fitting clothing to ensure adequate ventilation and avoid the risk of skin irritation
- Avoid emotional stress
- Treat all chronic diseases in a timely manner
Important! The doctor will tell you about all preventive measures. If there is a predisposition to the disease, it is very important to visit a dermatologist and an allergist immunologist to receive all the recommendations and identify the causes of the pathology.
Benefits of contacting MEDSI
- Modern expert class equipment. It provides fast and accurate diagnosis. The patient can undergo a comprehensive examination with the identification of allergens and the determination of the general condition of the body
- Multidisciplinary approach. It allows you to identify all possible causes of the pathology and select adequate treatment for various symptoms of urticaria
- Therapy according to the latest recommendations (including international ones). It is carried out taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient’s body, his current condition, the type of pathology and the factors that provoke it
To clarify the conditions for the treatment of urticaria or make an appointment, just call +7 (495) 7-800-500. Our specialist will answer all questions. Recording is also possible through the SmartMed application.
Do not delay treatment, see a doctor now:
- Urticaria treatment
- Dermatologist’s appointment
Rubella in children and adults: symptoms, treatment methods
Author
Zurnadzhi Elena Vyacheslavovna
Leading physician
Pediatrician
Creation date: 2016.03.30
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Rubella
Rubella is an acute viral disease predominantly of childhood. A typical manifestation: a pink-red rash that appears first on the face, and then spreads throughout the body within a few hours.
The susceptibility of children to rubella is high. Usually, children under the age of 6 months have innate immunity received from their mother, but if the child does not have specific antibodies, he can get sick even in the first months of life.
Rubella most often affects children aged 2 to 9 years.
Immunity after the transferred rubella is persistent, lifelong.
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Causes of rubella
Rubella is transmitted by airborne droplets. Although the virus is considered non-persistent, contact transmission of the disease (for example, through children’s toys) is also possible.
The incubation period for rubella is from 11 to 24 days (in most cases – from 16 to 20 days). The patient is contagious already a week before the rash appears. After the rash, the risk of infection persists for another 5-7 days.
Another option for transmission of infection is during pregnancy, from mother to fetus. With such congenital rubella, the virus is secreted for a long time – within 1.5-2 years after birth (with sputum, urine, feces).
Rubella risk
The main danger of the disease lies in its effect on the fetus in the early stages of pregnancy. Up to 11 weeks, the probability of infection of the fetus upon contact with the source of infection is 90%. The consequences can be serious: various pathologies and fetal death. Therefore, rubella is included in the number of ToRCH infections (a group of infections that pose a particular danger to the fetus and the health of the unborn child).
Rubella symptoms
The main symptoms of rubella are:
Rash
Rubella is manifested primarily by a rash. The rubella rash looks like small pink-red spots of a round or oval shape.
In children, the rash lasts 2-4, occasionally 5-7 days, then disappears – without pigmentation and peeling.
More about the symptom
Swollen lymph nodes
There is enlargement of the lymph nodes, especially those located on the back of the head and back of the neck.
Catarrhal phenomena
Sometimes in children with rubella, catarrhal phenomena are observed: a slight runny nose, sore throat, dry cough.
Symptoms of rubella in adults
In adults, rubella is much more severe: headache, general weakness, fever (up to 38-39 ° C), muscles hurt. The disease can affect the joints (primarily the small joints of the hands).
Methods for diagnosing rubella
Do not assume that you or your child is already immune because you have experienced symptoms that fit the description of rubella. Other viral diseases can have similar symptoms. Absolute certainty can only be given by a blood test for specific antibodies.
Serological blood test
Serological analysis detects the presence of antibodies to the rubella virus in the blood. Such an analysis can be done separately, or you can use the “Diagnostics of ToRCH infections” profile.
More about the diagnostic method
To accurately diagnose the disease, make an appointment with the specialists of the Family Doctor network.
Rubella treatments
If symptoms appear that suggest rubella, the child should be shown to the pediatrician, and the adult should consult a general practitioner.
Symptomatic treatment
Rubella is treated with bed rest and symptomatic treatment. The patient should receive enough vitamins (in the form of vitamin preparations or in kind).
Vaccination
Vaccination is a simple and effective way to avoid the danger of getting sick already in adulthood. It is especially important to exclude the threat of rubella disease to the expectant mother. The prevention of this disease is so significant that rubella vaccination is included in the National and Regional immunization schedules.
The vaccine is administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly. Vaccination is carried out at the age of 12 months, repeated immunization (revaccination) – at 6 years. For girls who have not had rubella and have not previously been vaccinated, the vaccine is administered at the age of 18 to 25 years. Specific immunity is provided in almost 100% of cases. It develops 15-20 days after vaccination and persists for more than 20 years.