September 25, 2011

In a recent article in Modern Medicine, Ilya Petrou, M.D. explains that chronic urticaria and chronic autoimmune urticaria are similar. However, when the condition is autoimmune, immunosuppressive agents may be required. In urticaria, the skin is affected by round raised areas which typically causes intense itching. The lesions are usually white in the center with red edges and tend to come and go.

Depending on symptom severity, some patients may require as many as 3-4 different H1 antihistamines to control symptoms. On occasion, leukotriene inhibitors used for asthma are also used.

It's also important to determine causes, external irritants and triggers such as food allergens or sensitivities to medications. Eliminating triggers is one of the first steps in finding relief.

Source:

Ilya Petrou. "Severe urticaria cases manageable with novel treatment options." Modern Medicine, August 1, 2011