Solar urticaria, is a type of skin response after exposure to the sun. There is an abrupt onset of redness, swelling and itching in light exposed areas. The light waves that trigger solar urticaria are usually within the range of 400 to 700 nm (visible light) and 320 to 400 nm (UV A). Patients often […]
Systemic Complaints in Chronic Urticaria (hives)
Most people who have chronic urticaria (hives) complain of severe itching. Chronic urticaria or chronic hives is associated with welts with or without swelling that generally resolve within 24 hours. It is considered chronic if it lasts 6 weeks or longer. Another term used is chronic spontaneous urticaria or chronic idiopathic urticaria. An estimated 80-90% […]
Dermographism treated with Xolair
Dermographism is the most common form of physical urticaria with a prevalence of up to 5%. Dermographism is characterized by itchy wheals that occur in response to friction, i.e. after rubbing or scratching of the skin and it usually lasts 1 to 2 hours. Dermographism usually lasts for years and it impacts quality of life. […]
Altered Gut Microbes in Chronic Hives
An altered gut microbe composition has recently been linked to some types of allergies. In chronic urticaria (hives), hives are present continuously or intermittently for at least 6 weeks. Stepwise approach to Chronic Urticaria (Chronic Hives) The precise cause of chronic hives is unknown and the major treatment is symptomatic control. Chronic hives is an […]
Alternative Agents for Refractory Chronic Urticaria Patients
Chronic urticaria is defined for a period of at least 6 weeks with hives. Patients with chronic urticaria who fail high-dose antihistamines should be referred to an allergy specialist to help manage their condition. We have previously spoke about the stepwise approach to chronic idiopathic/spontaneous urticaria. Stepwise approach to Chronic Urticaria (Chronic Hives) Patients with […]