Urticaria in Columbus, OH

Urticaria, also known as chronic hives, develops as white or red itchy welts on the skin. At Downtown Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of urticaria for those living in the Greater Columbus area.

What is Urticaria?

Urticaria is the clinical term for chronic hives that appear as white or red welts on the skin. In addition to the embarrassing appearance of hives, urticaria also causes mild to severe itching. Scratching the welts will worsen the appearance and itching. The welts associated with urticaria typically last six weeks during which time the welts may change in size and shape. People who have a history of urticaria often have a recurrence of the hives, especially those living with:

• Stress
• Lupus
• Thyroid condition

Exposure to heat has also been identified as a trigger for urticaria welts.

Urticaria Treatment Benefits

Urticaria is a chronic condition, so there is no cure. Treatment will reduce symptoms and the frequency of the outbreaks. Dr. Hicks-Graham will recommend treatments to address:

• Itching
• Welts
• Swelling

What Areas Can Be Treated for Urticaria?

People who live with chronic hives may develop welts on the:

• Cheeks
• Feet
• Genitals
• Hands
• Inside of the throat
• Legs
• Arms
• Torso
• Neck

What Can I Expect From Urticaria Treatment?

The first step in treating your urticaria is to determine if you have an underlying condition that triggers the hives. Dr. Hicks-Graham may recommend lab work to rule out any causes of the hives. She may also recommend measures to reduce your stress. Prescription-strength antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs are proven to effectively control the severity and frequency of urticaria outbreaks.

Urticaria Treatment Preparation

Prior to your consultation with Dr. Hicks-Graham, you may want to have your primary physician order blood work to determine if you have a medical condition that triggers your urticaria. Additionally, you should take steps to reduce your stress level.

Urticaria Treatment Recovery

Urticaria treatment typically shows results within seven to 10 days. You will need to continue the medications until Dr. Hicks-Graham releases you or you may always need to take the medications.

How Much Does Urticaria Treatment Cost?

Treatment for urticaria is covered under most medical insurance policies. You will have out-of-pocket expenses as determined by your insurance carrier. We accept payment by cash, check, major credit card and CareCredit® financing.

Is Urticaria Treatment Right for Me?

In most cases, chronic hives is not a life-threatening condition unless you develop hives inside your throat. The symptoms, though, can be unbearable, and you have a choice. Treatment with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hicks-Graham helps you better manage your urticaria and have a higher quality of life.

Urticaria Consultation

If you experience frequent outbreaks of hives, you may have urticaria, a chronic condition that can be treated at Downtown Dermatology. Our board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of urticaria.Urticaria cannot be cured, but at Downtown Dermatology, you can find ways to manage the outbreaks of hives and uncomfortable symptoms. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham will help you understand the condition and recommend medications to control chronic hives.