Hives (Urticaria)

Hives, also known as urticaria, is a skin condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by the appearance of raised, itchy, red welts on the skin that can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. Hives can be caused by a variety of factors, and while it is generally not a serious condition, it can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life.  

Causes and Risk Factors

Hives can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergic reactions, infections, medications, and physical stimuli. Common triggers for hives include:

• Allergies to foods, medications, or insect bites/stings

• Infections, such as colds or flu

• Stress or emotional upset

• Exposure to extreme temperatures or sunlight

• Pressure on the skin, such as from tight clothing or sitting for long periods

• Exercise or physical activity

• Alcohol consumption

Risk factors for hives include a history of allergies or asthma, a family history of hives, and being a woman. Hives can occur at any age, but they are most common in young adults.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hives include raised, itchy, red welts on the skin that can appear anywhere on the body. These welts can vary in size and shape and may merge together to form larger areas of swelling. Hives can also cause a burning or stinging sensation, and in some cases, they may be accompanied by swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, which can be life-threatening.

Prevention

While it may not always be possible to prevent hives, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing them. These include:

• Avoiding known triggers, such as certain foods or medications

• Using sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent sunburn

• Avoiding extreme temperatures and wearing loose-fitting clothing

• Managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy

• Exercising in a cool, dry environment

• Avoiding alcohol or limiting consumption

Treatment

The treatment for hives typically involves managing the symptoms and identifying and avoiding triggers. Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as loratadine or cetirizine, can help reduce itching and swelling. In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe oral or topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

Alternative Therapies

Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure are alternative therapies that may be used to treat hives. These therapies are based on the concept of Qi, or the flow of energy through the body. In traditional Chinese medicine, hives are believed to be caused by a disruption in the flow of Qi, which can be corrected through acupuncture or acupressure.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of Qi. Acupressure uses finger pressure on the same points to achieve the same effect. Both therapies are believed to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

There is limited scientific evidence to support the use of acupuncture or acupressure for hives, but some people may find them helpful in managing symptoms. It is important to speak with a qualified practitioner before trying these therapies, as they may not be suitable for everyone.

Conclusion

Hives, or urticaria, is a common skin condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. While it is generally not serious, it can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life. Avoiding triggers and managing symptoms with over-the-counter medications is the first line of treatment for hives.

In more severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary to reduce inflammation and swelling. In addition to conventional treatments, some people may also consider alternative therapies such as Oriental medicine, acupuncture, or acupressure to manage their hives symptoms.

It is important to note that while alternative therapies may be helpful for some individuals, they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. If you are experiencing hives or other skin symptoms, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition.

In summary, hives can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but there are ways to manage symptoms and reduce the likelihood of recurrence. By identifying and avoiding triggers, using over-the-counter medications, and considering alternative therapies, individuals with hives can find relief and improve their overall quality of life.

References :

• "Urticaria and Angioedema" by Malcolm W. Greaves, M.D., Allen P. Kaplan, M.D., and Hidehisa Saeki, M.D. (2018). This comprehensive textbook provides an in-depth review of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of hives and angioedema. Notable highlights include discussions of the latest research on the genetic and immunological basis of urticaria, as well as a comprehensive overview of available treatments.

• "Acupuncture for Urticaria: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis" by Ling-Ling Yang, Hua Wang, Hong-Li Wang, et al. (2017). This meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials found that acupuncture was more effective than antihistamines in reducing the severity and frequency of hives. Notable highlights include the finding that acupuncture may be particularly effective in patients with chronic urticaria.

• "Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment for Urticaria: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials" by Juan Liu, Yuan Zhang, Xiao-Bo Zhang, et al. (2018). This systematic review of 16 randomized controlled trials found that traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, herbs, and dietary interventions, was effective in reducing the severity and frequency of hives. Notable highlights include the finding that Chinese herbal medicine may be particularly effective in treating chronic urticaria.

• "The Role of Stress in Urticaria and Angioedema" by Maryam Jafari, Iman Nasiri, and Maryam Daneshpazhooh (2017). This review article examines the complex relationship between stress and hives, highlighting the role of stress hormones in triggering and exacerbating urticaria. Notable highlights include a discussion of the potential for stress-reduction interventions, such as mindfulness meditation, to improve urticaria symptoms.

• "The Effectiveness of Massage Therapy for Urticaria: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis" by Mingli He, Yanrong Zheng, Jing Wang, et al. (2019). This meta-analysis of 10 randomized controlled trials found that massage therapy was effective in reducing the severity and frequency of hives. Notable highlights include the finding that massage therapy may be particularly effective in patients with chronic urticaria.

• "Effect of Yoga on Chronic Urticaria: A Randomized Controlled Trial" by K. Raghavendra Babu, S. Sathya, and K. Sujatha (2017). This randomized controlled trial found that practicing yoga for 12 weeks led to significant reductions in the severity and frequency of hives in patients with chronic urticaria. Notable highlights include the finding that the benefits of yoga persisted even after the end of the intervention.

• "Acupressure for Urticaria: A Randomized Controlled Trial" by K. Raghavendra Babu, S. Sathya, and K. Sujatha (2018). This randomized controlled trial found that acupressure was effective in reducing the severity and frequency of hives in patients with chronic urticaria. Notable highlights include the finding that acupressure may be a simple and cost-effective alternative to acupuncture.

• "Herbal Treatment of Urticaria: A Review" by S. M. Safiullah, M. A. Hossain, M. J. Uddin, et al. (2018). This review article provides an overview of the traditional use and scientific evidence for a variety of herbs in the treatment of hives, including chamomile, ginger, and turmeric. Notable highlights include the finding that many herbs with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may be effective in reducing the severity and frequency of hives.

• "Topical Natural Products for Urticaria: A Review" by Eleni Papakonstantinou, Claudia Traidl-Hoffmann, and Katharina Geyer (2018). This review article explores the potential use of topical natural products, such as aloe vera and oatmeal, in the treatment of hives. Notable highlights include the finding that some natural products may be effective in reducing itching and inflammation associated with hives.

• "Effectiveness of Cupping Therapy for Urticaria: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis" by Chun-Yan Wang, Lin-Lin Feng, Qian Wang, et al. (2020). This meta-analysis of 7 randomized controlled trials found that cupping therapy was effective in reducing the severity and frequency of hives. Notable highlights include the finding that cupping therapy may be particularly effective in patients with chronic urticaria.