Urticaria
Learn about symptoms, modern diagnostic methods, and advanced treatment protocols available in China's top medical centers.
Understanding Urticaria
Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin reaction that causes raised, red, itchy welts. It can result from allergic reactions to food, medications, insect stings, or other triggers. Sometimes, the cause is unknown (idiopathic urticaria). The condition can be acute (lasting less than 6 weeks) or chronic (persisting longer than 6 weeks). In our partner clinics in Beijing and Shanghai, we use a multidisciplinary approach involving dermatologists, allergists, and immunologists to identify triggers and manage symptoms.
Advanced Diagnostics in China
Accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment. Our hospitals offer:
- Allergy Testing: Skin prick tests and blood tests.
- Physical Examination: Assessing the characteristic lesions.
- Challenge Tests: Identifying specific triggers.
- Autoimmune Screening: For chronic urticaria cases.
Treatment Options
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve antihistamines, avoiding triggers, corticosteroids, or an integrative approach combining Western medicine with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to reduce inflammation and manage allergic reactions.
- Antihistamines: Managing itching and swelling.
- Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and eliminating causes.
- Corticosteroids: For severe cases.
- Integrative TCM: Herbs to clear heat and toxins.