Urticaria

Urticaria, also known as hives, is characterized by red, swelling, non-painful, and itchy skin lesions that typically appear quickly, often within minutes. These skin changes usually persist for less than a day and do not leave any lasting marks on the skin once they have resolved.

Key Features

1. erythematous oedematous lesions

2. pruritus

3. resolution within 24 hours

4. swelling of face, tongue, or lips

5. blanching lesions

6. stridor (Rare)

Risk Factors

. positive family history

. female sex

. exposure to drug trigger

. exposure to food trigger 

Investigation

i. Complete Blood Test

ii. ESR

iii. CRP

Management

1. Address the Cause and Triggers:

2. Non-Sedating H1 Antihistamines: Cetirizine or Loratadine.