Urticaria: Hives on the Skin, Causes and How to Prevent It
Hives are a common skin condition that manifests as red or raised welts on the skin, often accompanied by intense itching. These lesions can vary in size and appear anywhere on the body, from the face and limbs to the trunk. Although they are usually temporary, disappearing within hours or days, they can also be recurrent and affect the quality of life of those who suffer from them.
What causes hives?
Hives occur when the body releases histamine and other chemicals in response to a stimulus, causing inflammation and fluid buildup in the skin. There are a number of causes that can trigger hives, including:
Allergies: Food allergens (such as shellfish, nuts, or milk), medications (such as antibiotics and pain relievers), and insect bites are common triggers.
Physical factors: Changes in temperature, pressure on the skin, strenuous exercise, or sun exposure can trigger hives in some people.
Stress: Emotional stress can be a major trigger, as it affects the immune system.
Infections: Some viral or bacterial infections can trigger episodes of hives.
Autoimmune diseases: In some cases, hives may be related to underlying autoimmune disorders.
How to avoid hives?
Although avoiding hives completely may not be possible, especially if they are chronic, there are measures that can reduce their occurrence:
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