Urticaria is the most common expression of skin allergy. It is characterized by wheals appearance. It got its name from the urtica plant (nettle) since the rash that characterizes it in many cases resembles that of a nettle. Wheals are localized swellings of the skin, usually pale in the center and red in the periphery at first and “pink” afterwards and they subside if pressed. Duration of the wheals is a few hours, but it can reach up to three days depending on the etiology. The accompanying symptom is usually itching, but there may be burning or pain.
Urticaria can be acute or chronic. Acute urticaria lasts less than six weeks, but chronic lasts longer. Chronic urticaria can be natural, ie due to a hypersensitivity reaction of the body to natural causes: friction, pressure, heat, water, cold, sun, vibrations. Chronic urticaria can be idiopathic, due to vasculitis or autoimmune. Its treatment and further control is vital for the patient and for this reason it is necessary to know all types of urticaria.
Not all urticaria are treated in the same way. Treatment is individualized, depending on the form of urticaria, the cause, and the underlying diseases that may coexist. This requires full cooperation of the patient with the dermatologist.
