How is urticaria caused?

Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
Updated on September 04, 2024
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There are many causes of hives, and the most common is related to genetics. If one of the parents has an allergic constitution, then the likelihood of allergies in their offspring significantly increases. Environmental factors also play a role in the occurrence of hives. For example, environments with a lot of dust or dust mites can trigger allergic reactions. Additionally, a humid living environment can promote the growth of fungi, which can also cause hives. The occurrence of hives is also related to food. Individuals who are allergic to proteins might experience hives when consuming high-protein foods like fish, shrimp, crabs, milk, and eggs. Furthermore, viral infections, bacterial infections, and parasite infections can also trigger hives.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Characteristics of papular urticaria

Papular urticaria is a type of allergic reaction, generally associated with contact with irritants, or bites from mosquitoes and fleas. The likelihood of occurrence increases if small animals are kept at home. Typically, small red papules or red wheals appear on localized areas of the body or extensively, with a transparent blister on top. The itching is quite severe, and the blisters are prone to bursting when scratched. Once symptoms appear, it is crucial to treat them with proper medication, and care should be taken to prevent infection if the blisters are scratched open. To prevent recurrence, it is advisable not to keep small animals at home, to frequently disinfect clothes, sheets, and duvet covers by exposing them to sunlight to eliminate mites or fleas, and to maintain a standard diet and lifestyle habits.

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Written by Huang Kun Mei
Pediatrics
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Symptoms of urticaria in children

The symptoms of urticaria in children generally include the appearance of erythema and patches of varying sizes on the skin. Some patches may be bright red and then look more obvious. Systemic symptoms can occur, and some children may experience nausea, vomiting, etc. At this time, it may be considered to be caused by allergic factors, and it is necessary to come to the hospital as soon as possible to ascertain the cause in the child. Avoid contact with allergens and then conduct anti-allergy treatment according to the child's condition. If the child's skin scratch test is positive, it can confirm that the child has urticaria. Generally, urticaria subsides quite quickly, and it is considered a specific type of disease.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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How to Distinguish Between Papular Urticaria and Urticaria

Papular urticaria, also known as insect bite dermatitis, is a different disease from urticaria. Urticaria, also known as wheals, is called yinzhen in traditional Chinese medicine, and it is a localized edema of the skin and mucous membranes due to temporary increased vascular permeability. For most patients with urticaria, the exact cause cannot be identified. Common causes include foods, such as animal proteins and certain food additives that induce urticaria. Urticaria can also be triggered by certain infections as allergens, as well as by certain medications such as penicillin, serum products, various vaccines, sulfonamides, etc. Additionally, common inhalants such as pollen, animal dander, dust, fungal spores, dust mites, and volatile chemicals can also trigger urticaria. Papular urticaria is characterized by a small blister in the center of a reddish area, often resulting from bites or stings of various insects like mosquitoes, mites, bees, etc., or from irritation by toxic sap on the skin. Improvement can be seen once removed from the allergenic environment.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Measles and Urticaria Distinction

Measles and hives have significant differences. Firstly, hives are an allergic disease and are not contagious, whereas measles is a viral infectious disease that can be spread through contact. Secondly, the treatment for hives mainly involves antiallergics, while the treatment for measles mainly includes symptomatic and antiviral therapies. However, regardless of whether it is measles or hives, it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly after onset.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Is artificial urticaria contagious?

Artificial urticaria is a disease caused by allergies, and it is one of the more difficult types of urticaria to treat. This disease is not contagious and will not spread through contact with others. Once diagnosed with this disease, formal treatment is necessary, and one can visit the dermatology department of a standard hospital for oral antiallergic medication treatment. If the condition persists for a long time and the treatment effects are unsatisfactory, it might be helpful to check for allergens to ascertain what triggers the allergy. Common allergens often include diet, living environment, dust mites, or pollen. Therefore, during and after treatment, it is advisable to enhance physical exercise to boost immunity, avoid keeping pets, stay away from places with dense vegetation, and refrain from consuming spicy and stimulating foods.