Chronic urticaria, more commonly referred to as hives, is a skin condition in which red, itchy welts or hives appear on any body part. It can significantly affect an individual's life by causing discomfort and distress. If you suffer from chronic hives and want effective solutions, you must look for proper urticaria treatment in Delhi. Chronic urticaria can be managed successfully, and patients can get help with this condition by getting advanced treatment from expert dermatologists.

What is Chronic Urticaria?

This condition is known as chronic, and it differentiates from acute urticaria, a type that heals within six weeks. Hives, in the case of chronic urticaria, last beyond six weeks. Such hives sometimes take months or years to heal off. The welts of chronic urticaria are also red and skin-coloured, raised, and have different sizes. They also appear suddenly and disappear rapidly,. 

Hives are not usually a serious medical condition; however, they may be uncomfortable and may cause psychological stress or anxiety because of their recurring features.

Indications of Chronic Urticaria

Chronic Urticaria manifests as typically raised, often itchy skin welts varying in size-from small spots, to large patchy welts. They come in different circular and irregular sizes, and most grow and shrink to different sizes during their appearance. It is very frustrating and uncomfortable to carry out daily activities when one experiences intense and persistent itching from chronic urticaria.

Other symptoms that may occur with chronic urticaria include:

• Swelling: Sometimes, the hives may be accompanied by swelling, especially around the eyelids, lips, or throat.

• Flushing: The skin surrounding the hives may become red and inflamed.

• Angioedema: This is a deeper layer of swelling occurring in areas such as the eyes, lips, or throat, and, in extreme cases, it may cause difficulty breathing.

• Recurrence: Chronic urticaria most often recurs at irregular intervals, which at times gives the patient frequent flare-ups that can persist for hours or even for days.

Possible Causes of Chronic Urticaria

The exact cause of chronic urticaria is often unknown, but it may be triggered by factors such as allergies, stress, autoimmune diseases, infections, medications, or environmental factors. Identifying the specific triggers is an essential part of managing the condition. In some cases, an underlying health condition may contribute to hives, requiring further investigation and treatment.

Most people with chronic urticaria are allergic to one or more food items, medicines, or environmental allergens, such as pollen or animal dander. An allergic reaction provokes the release of histamine from the immune system, leading to the manifestation of hives.

• Autoimmune Disorders: In some individuals, chronic urticaria may be due to an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, including the skin. Some people are also at risk of developing chronic hives if they suffer from conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.

• Infections: Viral and bacterial infections may also cause chronic urticaria in some people. Treatment of the infection will then help control the condition.

• Medications: Certain medications, including antibiotics, painkillers, or NSAIDs, can cause chronic hives as a side effect.

• Environmental Factors: Extreme temperatures, stress, sweat, or pressure on the skin can trigger hives in susceptible individuals.

• Genetics: A genetic component may predispose some individuals to developing chronic urticaria. A family history of allergies or autoimmune diseases can increase the likelihood of experiencing the condition.

Treatment for Chronic Urticaria

Treatment for chronic urticaria varies for each person, depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. The aim is to manage symptoms, avoid flare-ups, and help the patient achieve his maximal quality of life. Treatment options include:

• Antihistamines: The commonly prescribed drug for chronic urticaria includes antihistamines, which block the effects of histamine, the substance released by the immune system that triggers hives.

• Corticosteroids: Use of topical or oral corticosteroids is recommended in cases of severe urticaria; this is aimed at curtailing inflammation and controlling symptoms. However, long-term use of such medications is discouraged because it may result in some side effects.

• Immunosuppressants: In cases where urticaria is associated with an autoimmune disorder, immunosuppressive drugs can suppress the immunologic response and alleviate symptoms.

• Biologic Agents: More recently, biologic agents have been made available for chronic urticaria. These agents selectively bind to proteins involved in the immune response, reducing flare-ups' frequency and intensity.

• Lifestyle and Home Remedies: Along with medications, lifestyle modifications like avoiding known causes and managing stress and gentle skincare products may help reduce flare-ups. Applying cool compresses, oatmeal baths, and proper moisturization also soothe itching.

• Allergy Test: Specific allergens responsible for causing flare-ups can be identified by testing, and necessary measures can be taken to avoid such allergens.

Choose the Best Dermatologist in Delhi for Chronic Urticaria Treatment

Chronic urticaria can affect your quality of life. Thus, it would be best to consult an expert skin doctor from among the best dermatologists in Delhi. You can probably consult the best dermatologist in Delhi, Dr. Nivedita Dadu. She founded Skinology Clinic, where you can get high-quality treatment for various skin diseases, including chronic urticaria. Dr. Dadu, known for her expertise and advanced knowledge in dermatology, has helped many patients achieve clearer, healthier skin through customized treatment plans.

At Skinology Clinic, located in both Rajouri Garden (West Delhi) and Vasant Vihar (South Delhi), Dr. Nivedita Dadu and her team provide compassionate care. This ensures that each patient receives the best treatment options based on their needs. The clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and follows the highest standards of care to ensure the best results.

To avail the most effective and personalized treatments for chronic urticaria and other skin conditions, visit Skinology Clinic today. Experience relief from chronic urticaria and regain your confidence and well-being with expert care from Dr. Nivedita Dadu.