Urticaria causes itchy raised welts that come and go, often changing shape or location within hours. Many patients search for one allergy, but infections, medicines, pressure, heat, foods and unknown triggers can all be involved.
Symptoms & signs
Urticaria typically causes:
Raised itchy welts that move around
Swelling of lips, eyelids or face in some patients
Flares after medicines, foods, infection, heat, pressure or stress
Normal-looking skin between attacks
What Dr. Maharania checks
Duration: acute days/weeks versus chronic more than six weeks.
Medicines, painkillers, infection symptoms, food pattern and physical triggers.
Red flags: breathing difficulty, throat tightness or dizziness.
Treatment approach
Treatment focuses on symptom control and trigger review. Antihistamines are adjusted safely when needed. Broad allergy panels are not automatically useful for every patient; tests are chosen based on history and duration.
What to expect
1
Confirm hives
The pattern of disappearing welts helps separate urticaria from other rashes.
2
Look for triggers
Medicines, infections and physical triggers are reviewed before ordering tests.
3
Control itching safely
Antihistamines may need dose adjustment under medical advice.
4
Escalate red flags
Breathing difficulty, throat tightness or faintness needs emergency care.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an allergy test?+
Not always. Many urticaria cases are not solved by broad panels. Testing depends on history and persistence.
Is urticaria dangerous?+
Most hives are not dangerous, but swelling with breathing trouble, throat tightness or dizziness is an emergency.
How long does it last?+
Acute urticaria may settle in days or weeks. Chronic urticaria can last longer but is usually controllable.
Can WhatsApp help before I visit?+
WhatsApp can help with timing history and appointments, but facial swelling, breathing symptoms or severe attacks need in-person or emergency care.
