Urticaria

Urticaria is transient pruritic erythematous edematous wheals/angioedema, acute (<6 weeks: food/drug/infection) or chronic (>6 weeks: idiopathic/autoimmune/physical). Treatment: identify/avoid triggers; second-generation H1 antihistamines (cetirizine/fexofenadine/levocetirizine); up-dosing for chronic; systemic corticosteroids short course for severe flares; epinephrine auto-injector for anaphylaxis/airway angioedema; cool compresses; treat underlying infection/thyroid/H. pylori; omalizumab for antihistamine-refractory chronic; cyclosporine for severe; avoid NSAIDs/aspirin/alcohol; reassurance; follow-up allergy/dermatology.

Common Symptoms

Transient pruritic erythematous wheals; angioedema; acute/chronic; by food/drug/infection/physical/autoimmune

Causes and Pathogenesis

Mast-cell degranulation (IgE/autoimmune/physical/direct) causes transient dermal edema.

Treatment

Antihistamines; avoid triggers; systemic steroids if severe; epinephrine; omalizumab

Preventive Measures

Avoid known triggers; antihistamines; carry epinephrine if anaphylaxis history.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Allergy/Dermatology/Emergency 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.