urtikariaan

Urticariaan, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition characterized by the sudden appearance of raised, itchy welts. These welts, also called wheals, can vary in size and shape and may appear anywhere on the body. The intense itching is a hallmark symptom, and scratching can sometimes lead to more widespread outbreaks or minor skin damage.

The underlying cause of urticariaan is typically a release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals from mast cells in the skin. This reaction is often triggered by allergens, such as certain foods, insect bites, medications, or pollen. However, urticariaan can also be non-allergic, resulting from physical stimuli like pressure, cold, heat, sunlight, or even stress. In some cases, the cause remains unknown, a condition referred to as chronic spontaneous urticariaan.

Urticariaan can be classified as acute or chronic. Acute urticariaan usually resolves within a few hours to days, often linked to a specific trigger. Chronic urticariaan persists for more than six weeks, and the cause may be difficult to identify. While generally harmless, urticariaan can be a nuisance due to its discomfort and impact on quality of life. In rare instances, hives can be part of a more severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention. Diagnosis often involves a medical history, physical examination, and sometimes allergy testing. Treatment usually focuses on identifying and avoiding triggers, and antihistamines are commonly prescribed to relieve itching.