Chronic Urticaria: Itchy Palms and Soles Explained - Dermatology

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Chronic urticaria, commonly known as chronic hives, is a condition characterized by the presence of itchy welts or hives on the skin that can persist for six weeks or longer. In your case, the symptoms you describe—itchy palms and soles without visible skin changes—are indeed consistent with chronic urticaria. The fact that the itching occurs intermittently and can be exacerbated by scratching aligns with the typical presentation of this condition.

Chronic urticaria can be classified into two main categories: spontaneous and inducible. Spontaneous chronic urticaria occurs without an identifiable trigger, while inducible chronic urticaria is triggered by specific stimuli such as pressure, temperature changes, or even certain foods. In your situation, since the itching is localized to your palms and soles and does not seem to correlate with any external triggers, it may fall under spontaneous chronic urticaria.

The absence of visible skin lesions during episodes of itching can be perplexing, but it is not uncommon in chronic urticaria. The itch sensation you describe, which feels like "meat itching," is a subjective experience often reported by patients with this condition. The fact that the itching subsides when you refrain from scratching suggests that it may be related to histamine release, which is a common underlying mechanism in urticaria.

The medication you mentioned, "Zyrtec" (known generically as cetirizine), is an antihistamine that can help manage the symptoms of chronic urticaria by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical that contributes to itching and inflammation. Taking one tablet every three days to maintain control over your symptoms is a reasonable approach, especially if it effectively alleviates your itching.

It's important to note that chronic urticaria can sometimes be associated with underlying conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, infections, or even stress. If your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment, it may be worthwhile to explore further evaluation with your healthcare provider. They may consider additional tests to rule out potential triggers or underlying conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In managing chronic urticaria, lifestyle modifications can also play a role. Keeping your skin moisturized, avoiding known irritants, and managing stress levels can help reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Additionally, if you find that certain foods or environmental factors seem to exacerbate your symptoms, it may be beneficial to keep a diary to track potential triggers.

In summary, based on your description, it is plausible that you are experiencing chronic urticaria. The intermittent itching of your palms and soles, along with the absence of visible skin changes, aligns with this diagnosis. Continuing to take antihistamines as prescribed and monitoring your symptoms will be key in managing your condition. If you have further concerns or if your symptoms do not improve, I encourage you to follow up with your healthcare provider for a more comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan.