Hives

About 80% of the population has at least one episode of hives in life. The causes can be many: dust mites, pollen, foods, medications, insect bites, plants or even infections and stress. 'They are also increasingly common cases of physical urticaria, which arise after stimuli such as cold, heat or exercise, and then disappear, "says allergist Cristina Santa Marta. It can also be a symptom such as fever, refers to the existence of other diseases. 'The causes are not always discovered, and in these cases, the cure is difficult.'

Symptoms: Reddish spots and papules that cause itching.

Treatment: Antihistamines relieve the itching and reduce inflammation. Corticosteroids should be reserved for more serious cases, as when used for more than one month have side effects. In half of the cases usually disappear naturally within two years.

Prevention: Control of stress may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.

Workarounds

Calls unconventional therapies are particularly effective in chronic diseases and can be a precious help.