Urticaria Uncovered: Understanding The Condition And Optimizing Its Management

Abstract

Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin condition characterized by pale red, raised, and itchy bumps. The name "urticaria" is derived from the Latin words "urtica" and "urere," which mean nettle and to burn, respectively. This skin rash manifests as pink to flesh-colored plaques that are non-pitting and edematous. The primary cause of urticaria is believed to be a condition known as "Fasad e Dam," which refers to blood impairment. Urticaria can be classified into acute or chronic forms, and it arises when the vapors of "Dam e Merari" (bilious blood) or "Balgham e Boraqi" (acidic phlegm) come into contact with the skin or outer regions of the body. Acute urticaria can occur at any age and typically lasts for less than six weeks, while chronic hives persist for longer durations. Approximately 10-20% of individuals globally are likely to encounter an episode of urticaria or angioedema (a deeper tissue swelling) at some point in their lives, and it is more prevalent among women. The characteristic features and manifestations of urticaria, referred to as "Shara," encompass recurring transient skin eruptions, a sensation of warmth and tingling just prior to the emergence of lesions, as well as swollen wheals accompanied by a reddish border, intense itching often accompanied by a burning sensation (which tends to worsen in the evening), mild to severe pruritus, physical urticaria triggered by various factors. This sensitivity can be triggered by various factors, including cold and heat, exposure to sunlight, vibrations, pressure, perspiration, physical activity, and even a condition known as dermatographism. While modern allopathic medicine is commonly used in the treatment of urticaria, it may not always provide satisfactory results for chronic cases and can be associated with side effects. Therefore, there is interest in exploring alternative approaches, including the Unani system of medicine, for managing this condition. In this review study, we aim to investigate the various aspects of urticaria, with a particular focus on the perspective of Unani medicine and other interventions. Through the exploration of pharmaceutical interventions and alternative remedies, our aim is to offer a thorough comprehension of the choices accessible for the treatment of urticaria. The intention is to find effective interventions that may offer better outcomes and fewer adverse effects compared to conventional allopathic treatments.