How is urticaria contracted?

Generally, urticaria (hives) may be triggered by exposure to cold air, irritation from close-fitting clothing, viral upper respiratory infections (common cold), chronic gastritis, or chronic tonsillitis. Patients can adjust their daily habits or adopt symptom-targeted treatments based on their individual circumstances. A detailed analysis follows:

1. Cold Air Exposure

Low ambient temperatures irritate the skin’s surface, causing rapid constriction and dilation of subcutaneous blood vessels. This disrupts normal skin metabolism, leading to the development of hives and pruritus (itching). To mitigate this, promptly add layers of clothing to maintain full-body warmth, minimize outdoor exposure to cold winds, and regularly cleanse the skin with lukewarm water.

2. Irritation from Close-Fitting Clothing

Rough fabric textures or special dyes in clothing may cause persistent friction against the skin, compromising the integrity of the epidermal barrier and triggering allergic skin reactions. Switch to loose-fitting, 100% cotton garments; wash and sun-dry clothes regularly; and limit the duration of wearing tight-fitting clothing.

3. Viral Upper Respiratory Infection (Common Cold)

Invasion of cold-related viruses disrupts normal immune function, and subsequent immune dysregulation often precipitates urticaria. Under medical supervision, antiviral medications such as ribavirin tablets, acyclovir tablets, or oseltamivir phosphate granules may be prescribed. Additionally, increase intake of warm water and ensure adequate rest.

4. Chronic Gastritis

Chronic inflammation of the gastric mucosa impairs nutrient absorption, resulting in systemic metabolic imbalance and increased susceptibility to cutaneous allergic reactions—including urticaria. As directed by a physician, proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets) or antacids (e.g., hydrotalcite chewable tablets) may be used. Maintain regular mealtimes and avoid greasy, raw, or cold foods.

5. Chronic Tonsillitis

Persistent inflammatory foci in the tonsils release systemic inflammatory mediators that chronically stimulate the immune system, leading to recurrent and frequent episodes of urticaria. Antibiotics such as amoxicillin–clavulanate potassium tablets, roxithromycin capsules, or cefdinir dispersible tablets may be prescribed. For refractory cases, tonsillectomy may be considered; postoperatively, follow a bland, soft diet to support pharyngeal healing.

In daily life, strive to avoid known allergen-exposure scenarios, maintain consistent sleep–wake cycles to stabilize immune function, adopt a balanced and rational dietary pattern, and seek timely medical evaluation whenever symptoms arise—so that underlying triggers can be identified early and appropriate, professional guidance-based interventions implemented.