Sudden itching, raised red welts, and swelling on the skin these are the classic signs of urticaria, more commonly known as hives. For some, it’s a mild nuisance that passes in hours. For others, it becomes a recurring condition that affects daily life. At Erdem Hospital, we believe that clear information is the first step to effective care. Whether you’re experiencing your first episode or dealing with chronic symptoms, here’s what you need to know about urticaria and how we can help.
What Is Urticaria?
Urticaria is a skin reaction marked by itchy, swollen welts (also called wheals) that appear suddenly and often move around the body. These welts can vary in size and shape from small spots to large, connected patches and typically fade within 24 hours, though new ones may appear.
In some cases, urticaria is accompanied by deeper swelling under the skin, known as angioedema, which often affects the face, lips, hands, or feet.
Common Symptoms
- Raised, red or skin-colored welts
- Itching or burning sensation
- Swelling in affected areas
- Symptoms that appear and disappear within hours
- In chronic cases, symptoms lasting for six weeks or more
While the rash is usually not life-threatening, severe swelling in the throat or difficulty breathing may indicate a medical emergency.
What Causes Urticaria?
Urticaria is often triggered by an overactive immune response, but identifying the exact cause can be difficult. Triggers can vary greatly and may include:
- Foods: Shellfish, nuts, eggs, or food additives
- Medications: Antibiotics, aspirin, or pain relievers
- Infections: Viral or bacterial infections can lead to temporary hives
- Physical factors: Pressure, cold, heat, or sunlight exposure
- Stress: Emotional stress can trigger or worsen symptoms
- Autoimmune reactions: In some chronic cases, the immune system may attack healthy tissues without a clear external trigger
In many patients, no specific cause is ever identified. This is referred to as idiopathic urticaria.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Most mild cases resolve on their own. However, medical attention is recommended if you experience:
- Repeated or long-lasting hives
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Symptoms that disrupt sleep or daily activities
- No improvement with over-the-counter treatments
At Erdem Hospital, our dermatology and allergy specialists work closely to determine the root cause of your symptoms and offer targeted relief.
Diagnosis at Erdem Hospital
Diagnosing urticaria begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Depending on your symptoms, we may recommend:
- Allergy testing (if food or medication triggers are suspected)
- Blood tests to evaluate for infections or autoimmune markers
- Observation of patterns (e.g., physical triggers like cold or pressure)
Our team takes a holistic approach, evaluating not just skin reactions but also lifestyle, nutrition, and overall immune function.
Treatment Options
The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and prevent future flare-ups. Depending on the severity and cause, treatment may include:
1. Antihistamines
These are the first line of defense. They help block histamine, the chemical responsible for hives and itching.
2. Short-term corticosteroids
Used for moderate to severe flare-ups, especially when symptoms are not controlled with antihistamines.
3. Advanced therapies
For chronic or resistant cases, injectable medications like biologics may be considered under specialist supervision.
4. Trigger avoidance and lifestyle changes
Once triggers are identified, avoiding them is key. We also offer support in managing stress and improving skin resilience through nutrition and skincare guidance.
Living with Chronic Urticaria
Chronic urticaria can be frustrating and unpredictable. But with the right care plan, many patients experience significant improvement or even complete remission. At Erdem Hospital, we offer not just treatment but ongoing support, so you’re never left managing symptoms alone.
Don’t Let Hives Disrupt Your Life
If you or a loved one is struggling with frequent or persistent hives, know that effective help is available. Erdem Hospital’s experienced team offers thorough evaluation, modern treatment options, and a compassionate approach that puts your well-being first.
Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward calmer skin and restored comfort.