Chronic Urticaria

Chronic urticaria is recurrent pruritic wheals/angioedema >6 weeks, often idiopathic/autoimmune (anti-FcεRI/IgE) or physical (dermographism/cold/heat/pressure/sun). Treatment: second-generation H1 antihistamines (cetirizine/fexofenadine/levocetirizine), up-dosed up to 4x standard; omit NSAIDs/aspirin/alcohol/preservatives; identify physical triggers and avoid; systemic corticosteroids short course for flares; omalizumab for antihistamine-refractory; cyclosporine for severe; treat thyroid autoimmune disease/H. pylori if associated; reassurance; follow-up allergy/dermatology.

Common Symptoms

Recurrent pruritic wheals/angioedema; >6 weeks; often idiopathic/autoimmune/physical

Causes and Pathogenesis

Autoimmune or physical mast-cell activation causes recurrent wheals.

Treatment

Up-dosed antihistamines; omalizumab; cyclosporine; avoid triggers; treat cause

Preventive Measures

Avoid triggers; regular antihistamines; reassurance.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Allergy/Dermatology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.