Urticaria, popularly known as 'hives', is raised, itchy and reddened patches caused by skin reactions due to different conditions.

The red and raised spots on the skin surface range in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. These spots, which usually cover a very large area on the skin surface, can disappear within 24 hours from the time the disease appears.

If the redness and swelling caused by the hives lasts longer than six weeks and recurs frequently, this condition is called chronic urticaria.

Causes of Urticaria

The rash from urticaria and associated hemorrhoids is caused by the release of histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream by certain cells.

It is known that some of the triggering causes of urticaria rash on the skin are as follows:

• Pain relievers
• Alcohol
• Insects or parasites
• Food allergy
• Injury or scratching of the skin
• Exercise
• Infection
• Sunlight
• Cold
• Stress
• High temperature

However, in some cases, chronic urticaria may be associated with another underlying medical condition such as thyroid disease or, rarely, cancer.

Urticaria Symptoms

The most common signs and symptoms of chronic urticaria are red or flesh-colored patches that can appear anywhere on the body. In addition, swellings that change in size, appear and disappear during the day, and very severe itching are other symptoms.

Painful swelling of the lips, eyelids, and throat, or angioedema, may also occur. It has been observed that the symptoms of hives intensify during fatigue, stress, heat and exercise.

Urticaria Treatment

It is usually possible to find an effective treatment for urticaria (hives). The doctor diagnosing urticaria will likely recommend treating the symptoms of the disease with antihistamines and taking self-care measures. If these methods do not work, it is necessary to consult a doctor to determine the most suitable combination for the individual with prescription drugs.

You can also make some changes in your lifestyle for urticaria;

• Avoid identified disease triggers.
• Wear loose and light clothing.
• Avoid scratching your skin.
• Relieve the skin surface where the urticaria appears by washing, airing, using a cold, damp cloth, or with lotion or anti-itch cream.
• Use sunscreen.
• Do not use harsh and low pH cleansing gels, soaps and shampoos.
• Wash your laundry with organic and fragrance-free detergents.