Chronic urticaria and angiodema are very common skin complaints which affect millions of people, young and old alike every year. Urticaria is also known as nettle rash, wheals, and hives. Chronic urticaria is an allergic skin rash that has been present continuously or intermittently from six weeks or longer. On the other hand, angiodema refers to the swelling of the eyes, lips, ad tongue due to allergic reactions. Both can cause irritation and discomfort that will leave you weak and hoping for some relief.
Causes of Chronic Urticaria and Angiodema
Urticaria occurs when the body releases histamine, bradykinin, kallikerin, and other vasoactive substances from mast cells in order to protect the body from allergens. There are many causes of urticaria and they depend on the kind of substances one is allergic to. Meanwhile, angiodema also occurs as one of the body’s allergic reactions to foreign substances. Here are some of the causes of these skin problems:
- Allergens
Allergens are substances one is allergic to. They are mostly found in the food you eat. Food allergens are present in milk, eggs, beans, berries, tomatoes, shellfish, fish, shrimps, squid, nuts, and in other fruits and vegetables as well. Moreover, there are food additives and spices which some people are allergic to and are included in their diet without their knowing it. Allergens like pollen and animal fur, bites, and stings can also trigger the types of hives to appear in the skin.
- Environmental Factors
Research proved that the growing number of urticaria and angiodema cases result from the increase of pollutants in the environment. Dust particles, chemicals, too much heat, exposure to cold wind and others can trigger allergies. Plants like poison ivy and oak can cause them too.
- Drugs
Swelling and the occurrence of hives in the surface of the skin are also caused by the drugs one takes. Man-made drugs like antibiotics, penicillin, aspiring, anti inflammatory and anticonvulsant drugs contain allergens. Vaccinations among children and contraceptive pills also have these effects in the body.
Prevention of Chronic Urticaria and Angiodema
If you want to be free from these conditions, you must avoid their causes. This means you have to stay away from substances that trigger them. Do not eat food you are allergic to and always consult with your doctor with regard to drugs or any medication you are going to take. It will also do you good if you just stay in a clean environment and avoid places where bees, insects, and pollen are plenty.
Chronic urticaria and angiodema are caused by many factors. However, you can easily treat them by avoiding the substances which you are allergic to. Take good care of your health and maintain flawless skin by keeping yourself safe from allergies.
