Chronic Urticaria: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine

Q: Chronic Urticaria: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello： First of all, I must tell you that chronic urticaria is not easy to treat. <br>Secondly, since chronic urticaria is an allergic condition, the approach in Traditional Chinese Medicine focuses on regulating the body's constitution. <br>Given that the formation of one's cons

Questions related to urticaria?

Hello Doctor: I have chronic urticaria and have been taking traditional Chinese medicine for four months now, consistently following the regimen and avoiding foods that you advised against.
1.
I still experience hives once or twice daily, with the affected area being about the size of half a fist.
The frequency and severity seem similar to before my visit.
Although I understand that traditional Chinese medicine requires time to adjust the body's constitution, is it normal to see such results after four months? 2.
Online information indicates that certain medications can trigger severe urticaria.
If my urticaria is well-controlled in the future, will exposure to those medications cause me to develop severe hives? I kindly ask for your clarification on these questions.
Thank you.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/27

Dr. Lai Jianhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello: First of all, I must tell you that chronic urticaria is not easy to treat.
Secondly, since chronic urticaria is an allergic condition, the approach in Traditional Chinese Medicine focuses on regulating the body's constitution.
Given that the formation of one's constitution takes years and is influenced by genetic factors, changing one's constitution is not something that can be achieved overnight.
You mentioned that you are taking medication regularly and following your doctor's advice, which is excellent, but why is there still no significant effect? This question cannot be answered online, as we need to conduct a thorough inquiry and examination to confirm your condition and constitutional tendencies.
Therefore, I suggest you consider seeking a second opinion.
It may also be helpful to summarize your medication history, so that another physician can more quickly adjust your treatment plan.
Regarding the drug-induced urticaria you mentioned, this is usually caused by a drug allergy.
If you do not have a history of allergy to that medication, you should monitor for any adverse reactions during the medication process, as urticaria may not necessarily occur.
However, if you have previously experienced drug allergies, it is important to document this and inform your physician to avoid prescribing similar medications.
If you have further questions, feel free to ask, or you may consult a nearby medical facility for more appropriate answers.
Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2017/03/27

More Info

Chronic urticaria, commonly known as chronic hives, is a condition characterized by recurrent, itchy welts on the skin that can persist for six weeks or longer. The management of chronic urticaria can be complex, and many patients explore various treatment modalities, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
1. Understanding the Slow Progress in TCM Treatment:
It is important to recognize that TCM often takes a holistic approach, focusing on the underlying imbalances in the body rather than just the symptoms. The treatment may involve herbal remedies, acupuncture, and dietary modifications aimed at restoring balance to the body's energy (Qi) and addressing any deficiencies or excesses. While you have been on herbal treatment for four months, the expectation of immediate results may not align with the principles of TCM, which often requires a longer duration to see significant changes. However, if you are not experiencing any improvement after four months, it may be worth discussing this with your TCM practitioner. They may need to reassess your condition, the herbs being used, and whether the treatment plan needs adjustment.

2. Potential Triggers and Future Reactions:
Regarding your concern about medication-induced urticaria, it is indeed possible for certain medications to trigger hives in susceptible individuals. If your chronic urticaria is well-controlled through TCM or any other treatment, it may reduce the likelihood of severe reactions to known triggers. However, it is crucial to remain vigilant. If you encounter a medication that you know has previously caused hives, it is advisable to avoid it. In cases where you are unsure, consulting with a healthcare provider before taking any new medication is prudent. They can help assess the risks based on your medical history and current treatment.

3. Integrating TCM with Conventional Medicine:
Many patients find that a combination of TCM and conventional medicine can be beneficial. While TCM focuses on long-term health and balance, conventional treatments may provide quicker relief from symptoms. Antihistamines are commonly prescribed in Western medicine for managing urticaria, and they can be effective in controlling symptoms. If you are considering integrating these approaches, it is essential to communicate openly with both your TCM practitioner and your Western medicine provider to ensure that the treatments do not interfere with each other.

4. Lifestyle and Dietary Considerations:
In addition to herbal treatments, lifestyle and dietary changes can play a significant role in managing chronic urticaria. TCM emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet that avoids known allergens and irritants. Keeping a food diary can help identify any potential triggers related to your diet. Additionally, stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or acupuncture, may also help reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.

5. Monitoring and Follow-Up:
Regular follow-up with your TCM practitioner is crucial. They can monitor your progress, make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan, and provide support as you navigate your condition. If you feel that your symptoms are not improving or worsening, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion or explore additional treatment options.

In summary, while TCM can be a valuable approach to managing chronic urticaria, it is essential to have realistic expectations regarding the timeline for improvement. Continuous communication with your healthcare providers, monitoring for potential triggers, and considering a combined treatment approach can enhance your management of this condition.

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