Symptoms

Typical symptoms of hives are itchy, red and raised rashes that can spread quickly. The rashes can vary in size and can last from a few hours to several days or weeks. In some cases, hives may be accompanied by swelling of the face, lips, and tongue, which can cause difficulty breathing.

Location: the rashes can occur anywhere on the body and can spread quickly from one area to another. However, they are often found on the arms, legs, abdomen, and back.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of hives is usually made based on the characteristic symptoms. However, blood tests and skin tests may also be performed to rule out possible underlying causes.

Therapy

Treatment of hives depends on the severity of the symptoms. In mild cases, antihistamines and topical creams can help relieve symptoms. In more severe cases, steroids and other immunomodulatory medications may be needed. Eliminating the underlying cause is often the key to successful treatment of hives.

Course

The course of hives can vary, depending on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. In some cases, the condition may resolve spontaneously, while in others, symptoms may persist for years.

Prognosis

The prognosis of hives is usually good, as most cases resolve spontaneously or respond well to treatment. However, in some cases, hives can become chronic and result in a significant loss of quality of life.

Frequency

Hives is a common condition that can affect about 15-20% of the population. Women are affected slightly more often than men.

Risk factors

Risk factors for hives include allergic reactions, infections, medications, food, and stress.

Prevention

There are no specific measures to prevent hives. However, a healthy diet and lifestyle can help reduce the risk of infections and allergic reactions that can trigger hives. It is also important to take medications only as directed by a physician and to seek immediate medical attention if an allergic reaction is suspected.

Pathogenesis

The exact cause of hives is not fully understood. However, it is believed that an allergic reaction to a variety of triggers, such as foods, medications, and infections, triggers the release of histamine in the body. Histamine is a chemical responsible for the symptoms of hives.

Classification

There are several types of hives, including acute hives, chronic hives, and physical hives. Acute hives occur suddenly and usually last less than six weeks. Chronic hives last longer than six weeks. Physical hives occur when the skin reacts to certain physical stimuli, such as cold or sunlight.

Staging

There is no specific staging for hives. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can last from a few hours to several weeks.

Similar diseases

There are some skin conditions that can have similar symptoms to hives. These include contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis (neurodermatitis), and psoriasis. It is important to make an accurate diagnosis to find the right treatment.

Literature

Zuberbier T, Aberer W, Asero R, et al. The EAACI/GA(2) LEN/EDF/WAO guideline for the definition, classification, diagnosis, and management of urticaria: the 2013 revision and update. Allergy. 2014;69(7):868-887. doi:10.1111/all.12313

Greaves MW. Chronic urticaria. N Engl J Med. 1995;332(26):1767-1772. doi:10.1056/NEJM199506293322607.

Sánchez-Borges M, Asero R, Ansotegui IJ, et al. Diagnosis and treatment of urticaria and angioedema: A worldwide perspective. World Allergy Organ J. 2012;5(11):125-147. doi:10.1097/WOX.0b013e318279affa.

Web links

Deutsche Dermatologische Gesellschaft e.V. – Patient information: Urticaria (hives): https://www.derma.de/patienteninformationen/urtikaria/

Allergy Information Service: Urticaria (hives): https://www.allergieinformationsdienst.de/krankheitsbilder/haut-und-haar/urtikaria/

Bundesverband der Allergiker und Asthmatiker e.V.: Urticaria (hives): https://www.bv-allergien.de/ueber-allergien/krankheitsbilder/nesselsucht-urtikaria/