Urticaria: Common Symptoms and Treatment Insights

Q: Urticaria: Common Symptoms and Treatment Insights

Hello： In fact, urticaria can also occur on the hands, although the typical wheals may not be visible, and patients may experience swelling and pain. <br>If a "fixed" urticaria lesion persists for more than 24 hours without resolution (not referring to lesions appearing in differ

The issue of urticaria?

Hello Dr.
Huang: About six months ago, I developed urticaria.
During my first outbreak, my upper lip swelled, and sometimes my entire hand would feel swollen.
After seeing a doctor, I was diagnosed with urticaria.
I took medication continuously for two months, and later the doctor said I only needed to take the medication when symptoms appeared.
However, recently, my symptoms have been occurring more frequently, and sometimes the skin on my fingers also swells.
After scratching, I experience a stinging and swelling sensation (not joint pain).
After finishing my medication, I consulted the doctor again, and he said urticaria does not occur on the fingers.
Is that true? The doctor also suggested I get a blood test to check if there is an issue with my immune system.
Generally, urticaria subsides after taking medication, but sometimes it does not resolve even after 24 hours.
Why could this be happening? Thank you, doctor.

Pu Qiu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/09/15

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology

Hello: In fact, urticaria can also occur on the hands, although the typical wheals may not be visible, and patients may experience swelling and pain.
If a "fixed" urticaria lesion persists for more than 24 hours without resolution (not referring to lesions appearing in different locations), it is advisable to conduct blood tests to evaluate the immune system, and possibly even a biopsy for further examination.
Wishing you peace and good health.

Reply Date: 2009/09/15

More Info

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition characterized by raised, itchy welts or bumps on the skin. These welts can vary in size and can appear anywhere on the body. Understanding the symptoms and treatment options for urticaria is essential for managing this condition effectively.

Common Symptoms of Urticaria
1. Itching: One of the hallmark symptoms of urticaria is intense itching, which can be quite bothersome and lead to scratching.

2. Raised Welts: The skin develops raised areas known as wheals, which can be red or skin-colored. These can vary in size and shape.

3. Swelling: In some cases, urticaria can cause swelling (angioedema) in deeper layers of the skin, particularly around the eyes, lips, and hands.

4. Duration: The welts can appear and disappear quickly, often within hours. However, in chronic cases, they may persist for longer periods, sometimes for days or weeks.

5. Pain or Burning Sensation: Some individuals may experience a burning or stinging sensation in addition to itching.

Treatment Insights
1. Antihistamines: The first line of treatment for urticaria typically involves antihistamines, which help to block the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Non-sedating antihistamines like cetirizine or loratadine are commonly used.

2. Corticosteroids: For more severe cases or when antihistamines are not effective, doctors may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response.

3. Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding potential triggers is crucial. Common triggers include certain foods, medications, insect stings, and environmental factors like heat or stress.

4. Immunotherapy: In chronic cases, where urticaria does not respond to standard treatments, immunotherapy or other advanced treatments may be considered.

5. Blood Tests: As your doctor suggested, blood tests can help determine if there is an underlying autoimmune condition or other issues contributing to your symptoms.

Addressing Your Concerns
Regarding your specific situation, it is indeed possible for urticaria to manifest on various parts of the body, including the fingers. While it is more common for hives to appear on larger areas of skin, localized swelling and itching can occur. The fact that you experience swelling and a stinging sensation after scratching may indicate that your skin is reacting to the irritation, which is common in urticaria.

If your symptoms have become more frequent and persistent, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend a more comprehensive evaluation, including allergy testing or a referral to a specialist, such as an allergist or dermatologist.
Additionally, if you find that your symptoms persist beyond 24 hours despite treatment, this could indicate a need for a reassessment of your management plan. Chronic urticaria can sometimes require a more tailored approach, including higher doses of antihistamines or alternative medications.

Conclusion
Urticaria can be a frustrating condition, especially when symptoms are frequent and disruptive. It is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop an effective treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Keeping a symptom diary may also help identify triggers and patterns, which can be beneficial in managing your condition. Remember, while urticaria can be uncomfortable, with the right treatment and management strategies, it can often be controlled effectively.

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