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Incidence; Causes & Development Hives are relatively common with at least 20% of the population having had at least one episode during their lifetime. The reaction involves the release of histamine from either mast cells or basophils causing an IgE (immediate type) mediated antibody response. The most common causes of chronic urticaria are drug reactions, stress, food sensitivities and fungal infections. Signs & Symptoms Itching is usually the first symptom. The wheals are white or red, occasionally with a pale center. Plaques are developed by 50% of patients and the lesions often come and go in different areas. Treatment & Prevention Instead of just treating the symptoms (which is obviously important as well), a physician needs to get the the bottom (if there is one) of why the patient is getting them in the first place. Prognosis; Complications In cases of chronic urticaria of over three weeks' duration, 50% of patients experience spontaneous remission within two years, even though in the majority of cases the cause is never identified. |
| Food Additive Avoidance Hydrochloric Acid (Trial) Meyer's Cocktail Test for Food Allergies Thyroid Medications Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) |