Hives on chest and arms. Unexpected Causes of Hives: From Stress to Exercise – Comprehensive Guide
What are the surprising triggers for hives. How can common factors like stress or temperature changes lead to skin reactions. When should you seek medical attention for hives.
Understanding Hives: Symptoms and Characteristics
Hives, medically known as urticaria, are an itchy skin reaction characterized by raised, red bumps. These welts can appear anywhere on the body and vary in size from tiny pinpricks to large areas covering entire limbs. On darker skin tones, hives may appear slightly lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.
Key characteristics of hives include:
- Raised appearance
- Intense itching
- Tenderness
- Round, oval, or irregular shapes
- Clearly defined borders
Are hives always easy to identify? While their appearance can be distinctive, hives may sometimes be confused with other skin conditions. If you’re unsure about a skin reaction, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Unexpected Triggers: When Hives Appear Without Obvious Cause
While allergic reactions are a well-known cause of hives, many people experience outbreaks without any apparent trigger. This can be both surprising and concerning. Understanding some of the less obvious causes can help demystify these unexpected flare-ups.
Viral and Bacterial Infections
Can the common cold cause hives? Surprisingly, yes. As your immune system fights off viral infections like colds, it can trigger a hives outbreak. These typically appear towards the end of the illness, just as you’re starting to feel better. While more common in children, this reaction can occur in adults as well.
Bacterial infections, such as strep throat or urinary tract infections, can also lead to hives. In these cases, the hives often subside as antibiotics help combat the infection, though they may peel before fully healing.
Stress-Induced Hives
How does stress manifest on your skin? For some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin, allergies, or eczema, stress can trigger hives. Stress-related hives often appear on the face, neck, chest, and arms. This occurs because stress can raise internal body temperature and release adrenaline and other chemicals that prompt histamine release.
Environmental Factors and Physical Triggers
Our environment and daily activities can sometimes lead to unexpected hive outbreaks. Understanding these triggers can help in managing and preventing future occurrences.
Temperature Changes and Cold Urticaria
Can a sudden change in temperature really cause hives? Indeed, it can. Abrupt exposure to hot or cold temperatures, such as stepping into a steamy shower or plunging into a cool swimming pool, can trigger histamine release and hive formation. This specific reaction is known as cold urticaria and often presents with a red, itchy area surrounding the hives.
Tight Clothing and Skin Irritation
Your wardrobe choices might be contributing to hive outbreaks. Tight-fitting clothes can cause friction, leading to skin irritation and hives. Moreover, close-fitting garments can push bacteria on your skin’s surface into pores and hair follicles, potentially causing further irritation.
Exercise-Induced Urticaria: When Working Out Triggers Hives
Can exercise cause hives? While it may seem counterintuitive, physical activity can indeed trigger hive outbreaks in some individuals. This condition, known as exercise-induced urticaria, occurs when the body releases a chemical called acetylcholine during exercise, which can irritate skin cells.
Symptoms of exercise-induced urticaria may include:
- Hives
- Shortness of breath
- Headache
- Flushing
- Stomach cramps
Is it safe to exercise if you’re prone to exercise-induced urticaria? While it’s generally safe, it’s important to be aware of your body’s reactions and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. They may recommend precautions or treatments to manage symptoms while maintaining an active lifestyle.
Chronic Conditions and Autoimmune Disorders
When hives persist for more than six weeks, they may be indicative of an underlying chronic condition. Autoimmune disorders such as lupus, type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease, or rheumatoid arthritis can manifest with chronic hives as a symptom.
Should you be concerned about persistent hives? Chronic hives that don’t resolve on their own warrant medical attention. A healthcare provider can help determine if an underlying condition is causing the persistent outbreaks and recommend appropriate treatment.
Vasculitis: When Hives Signal Blood Vessel Inflammation
In some cases, hives may be a sign of a more serious condition called vasculitis, which involves inflammation of the blood vessels. Hives caused by vasculitis are often painful and can leave bruises on the skin, lasting for several days. This condition requires professional medical evaluation and treatment.
Medications and Allergic Reactions
Can common medications cause hive outbreaks? Certain medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and opioids, can trigger allergic reactions that manifest as hives. It’s crucial to be aware that hives following medication use could be the first sign of a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:
- Hives
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
Is anaphylaxis always accompanied by hives? While hives are a common symptom of anaphylaxis, not all cases of anaphylaxis present with hives. It’s essential to be aware of other symptoms and seek immediate medical attention if anaphylaxis is suspected.
When to Seek Medical Care for Hives
While many cases of hives resolve on their own or with over-the-counter treatments, certain situations require prompt medical attention. Understanding when to seek help is crucial for managing potential complications and ensuring proper treatment.
Emergency Situations: Recognizing Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical intervention. If you experience hives along with difficulty breathing, wheezing, vomiting, or loss of consciousness, it’s crucial to seek emergency care immediately.
What should you do if you suspect anaphylaxis?
- If prescribed, use your EpiPen immediately.
- Call emergency services (911 in the United States).
- Do not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital.
- If possible, have someone stay with you until help arrives.
Why is it important to call for an ambulance rather than driving to the hospital? Paramedics can provide immediate treatment with epinephrine and monitor your condition en route to the hospital, potentially saving crucial time in severe cases.
Non-Emergency Situations Requiring Medical Attention
While not all hive outbreaks require emergency care, certain situations warrant a visit to your healthcare provider:
- Hives persisting for more than six weeks
- Frequent recurrence of hives
- Hives accompanied by fever or joint pain
- Hives that don’t respond to over-the-counter treatments
- Hives that significantly impact your quality of life
Can a doctor help identify the cause of recurring hives? A healthcare provider can perform tests and evaluate your medical history to help identify potential triggers or underlying conditions causing your hives. This can lead to more effective management and treatment strategies.
Managing and Preventing Hive Outbreaks
While it’s not always possible to prevent hives, especially when the cause is unclear, there are steps you can take to manage outbreaks and reduce their frequency.
Identifying and Avoiding Triggers
Keeping a diary of your hive outbreaks, including potential triggers and environmental factors, can help you identify patterns and avoid common causes. This may involve:
- Monitoring your diet for potential food triggers
- Being aware of environmental allergens
- Managing stress levels
- Avoiding extreme temperature changes when possible
- Choosing loose-fitting, breathable clothing
Is it possible to completely prevent hive outbreaks? While complete prevention may not always be achievable, especially for those with chronic urticaria, identifying and avoiding triggers can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
For mild to moderate hive outbreaks, over-the-counter antihistamines can be effective in reducing itching and inflammation. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication regimen, especially if you have other health conditions or are taking other medications.
Lifestyle Modifications
Certain lifestyle changes may help manage hive outbreaks:
- Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
- Maintaining a consistent exercise routine (if not prone to exercise-induced urticaria)
- Ensuring adequate sleep and a balanced diet
- Using gentle, fragrance-free skincare products
Can dietary changes help prevent hives? While not all hives are related to diet, some individuals may benefit from identifying and avoiding food triggers. A healthcare provider or dietitian can provide guidance on potential dietary modifications.
Long-Term Management of Chronic Hives
For individuals dealing with chronic hives, long-term management strategies are crucial. This may involve working closely with healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Medical Treatments for Chronic Urticaria
Depending on the severity and underlying cause of chronic hives, treatment options may include:
- Prescription-strength antihistamines
- Oral corticosteroids for severe outbreaks
- Immunosuppressant medications
- Biologic drugs that target specific components of the immune system
Is it necessary to take medication indefinitely for chronic hives? Treatment duration varies depending on individual cases. Some people may experience remission and be able to discontinue medication, while others may require long-term management. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider can help adjust treatment as needed.
Psychological Support
Living with chronic hives can be emotionally challenging. The unpredictable nature of outbreaks and their impact on daily life can lead to stress, anxiety, or depression. Seeking psychological support through counseling or support groups can be beneficial in managing the emotional aspects of chronic urticaria.
How can you find support for dealing with chronic hives? Many dermatology clinics offer resources for patients with chronic skin conditions. Additionally, online forums and support groups can provide a platform to connect with others experiencing similar challenges.
Future Directions in Hives Research and Treatment
As our understanding of hives and their underlying mechanisms continues to evolve, new treatment options and management strategies are emerging. Ongoing research is focusing on several promising areas:
Targeted Therapies
Scientists are investigating new biologic drugs that can target specific pathways involved in hive formation. These therapies aim to provide more effective relief with fewer side effects compared to traditional treatments.
Genetic Research
Studies into the genetic factors that may predispose individuals to chronic hives could lead to more personalized treatment approaches in the future.
Microbiome Connections
Emerging research is exploring the potential role of the skin and gut microbiome in hive development. This could open up new avenues for prevention and treatment through microbiome modulation.
What can we expect from future hives treatments? While it’s difficult to predict specific breakthroughs, the trend towards more targeted, personalized treatments is likely to continue. This could lead to more effective management of chronic hives and potentially even curative treatments for some forms of urticaria.
In conclusion, while hives can be a frustrating and sometimes mysterious condition, understanding their various causes and management strategies can help individuals better cope with outbreaks. From unexpected triggers like stress and exercise to more serious underlying conditions, being informed about the diverse nature of hives is crucial. Remember, while many cases of hives are benign and self-limiting, persistent or severe symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. With ongoing research and evolving treatment options, the future looks promising for those affected by this common yet complex skin condition.
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
Rashes on the chest: causes and methods of treatment
The skin of the chest is very thin, sensitive and especially susceptible to negative environmental factors. The appearance of various rashes on the chest can be a completely harmless phenomenon, but some types of rashes are symptoms of a viral or infectious disease, or a malignant pathology and require immediate treatment.
The rash can occur in people of any gender and age, most often it occurs in women and children. By localization, type, form, intensity of rashes, one can determine the type of pathology and the stage of the disease. The rash may appear only once, or it may occur constantly.
Types of rashes on the chest
- Dry scales. They are dead cells of the epidermis. Most often occurs in women after 40 years. They do not pose a health hazard.
- Small red spots with a clear bubble inside. In most cases, they are a manifestation of an allergic reaction, cause itching, discomfort.
- Crusts that form after wounds have healed. With the penetration of infection under them, an inflammatory process with purulent contents may develop.
- Small acne or papules. They appear due to hormonal imbalance, more often during pregnancy or the postpartum period.
- Urticaria is an allergic skin reaction that may be accompanied by swelling, shortness of breath, and nausea. Volumetric rashes of pink color of various shapes can merge into large lesions.
- Erosion. It is a small pathological areas of violation of the skin with cloudy contents and an unpleasant odor. May be the result of abscesses or pimples.
- Ulcers. Deep skin lesions, healing for a long time and leaving behind scars.
Symptoms associated with rashes on the chest
- Hyperemia and swelling of the affected area.
- Inflammation of adjacent lymph nodes.
- Itching, burning, as a result, scratching is often formed, the skin is injured.
- Increased dry skin.
- Cloudy blisters, erosions or ulcers.
Causes of pathological rashes on the skin
Pathological rashes on the chest can occur for many reasons, often they become characteristic symptoms of various diseases of the body.
- Allergy. The pathological reaction of the body to the action of various allergens (food, medicines, animal hair, etc.) is often accompanied by the appearance of rashes on the skin.
- Dermatological diseases. Inflamed skin and various types of rashes are symptoms of skin diseases. The most common are prickly heat in newborns, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, acne, etc.
- Infectious and viral diseases. A certain type of rash is a characteristic symptom of many diseases of an infectious nature: rubella, chickenpox, scarlet fever, meningitis, herpes, ringworm, syphilis.
- Diseases of internal organs. A rash on the chest can appear with liver failure, diseases of the pituitary and adrenal glands, with dysbacteriosis, hormonal disorders and other pathologies.
- Tumor diseases.
The appearance of rashes can provoke non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene, excessive sweating, the use of poor-quality cosmetic care products, underwear that does not fit, and other reasons.
Sudden appearance of intense rashes on the body, soreness, swelling, redness of the skin, fever or recurrent nature of the rash is a reason to consult a specialist. Self-medication can only exacerbate the problem and lead to serious complications.
Diagnosis and treatment of breast skin pathologies
The treatment regimen is determined by the doctor after examining and examining the patient, studying the medical history and identifying the cause of the pathology. For this, laboratory diagnostics and instrumental studies are carried out.
Laboratory diagnostics includes general and biochemical studies of blood and urine, analysis of cultures and scrapings of the pathological contents of rashes, and other tests. This allows you to determine the cause of the rash and choose the most effective method of treatment.
Depending on the type and nature of the rashes, specialized specialists are involved in the treatment – an infectious disease specialist, a dermatologist, a mammologist, an internist or an oncologist.
With all pathological changes in the skin of the breast, you can contact the qualified specialists of the multidisciplinary center “House of Health”. The patients of the clinic have at their disposal a modern diagnostic laboratory that performs a large number of laboratory tests, as well as modern expert-level diagnostic equipment, which allows them to provide medical services at the level of world treatment standards.