What should we do in case of an allergic skin rash?

Allergy is a common problem for many people. There are various forms of allergies — they may manifest as skin rashes, itching, redness of the eyes, nasal congestion, runny nose, tearing, sneezing, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms.

Together with Dr. Ketevan Omiadze, allergist-immunologist and Doctor of Medicine at Todua Clinic, we will discuss the causes of allergic skin rashes and ways to treat them.

Dr. Ketevan, itching is a very disturbing symptom for people with allergies. Why does it occur and how can one get relief from it?

A skin rash is one of the most common allergic reactions. Skin allergies may present as urticaria (hives), atopic dermatitis, contact allergic dermatitis, or angioedema.

Statistically, about 20% of people experience urticaria at least once in their lifetime. It appears suddenly and causes itching, discomfort, irritation, and often — anxiety. This condition can be temporary, lasting from several hours to a few days, or can become chronic and last for weeks, months, or even years. Age doesn’t matter — allergic rashes can develop in both children and adults. In children, urticaria is more often caused by viral infections than in adults.

What kind of rash is called urticaria?

Urticaria is a sharply defined, raised, itchy skin rash that visually resembles a nettle sting — hence the name. The rash can appear on any part of the skin.

Urticaria may develop due to exposure to various allergens. Symptoms typically appear suddenly after contact with the allergen and include:

Red, raised spots of various sizes on the skin, which sometimes merge and shift location;
Severe itching;
Occasionally — a burning sensation or tightness;
In severe cases, the skin rash may be accompanied by swelling of the face, lips, eyelids, or tongue, which is a sign of angioedema (Quincke’s edema) and requires immediate medical attention.

What are the main causes of urticaria?

The causes of urticaria are diverse, and often, identifying the exact trigger can be difficult. The most common factors include:

Food allergens — nuts, seafood, eggs, milk, fruits, etc.;
Medications — antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs;
Insect bites;
Infections — viral, bacterial, parasitic;
Heat, cold, sunlight, water (physical urticaria);
Emotional stress;
Physical exertion;
Synthetic or wool clothing;
Mechanical pressure on the skin (dermographism).

How is urticaria diagnosed and treated? What do you recommend to allergic individuals?

Diagnosis of urticaria is based on physical examination by a doctor and assessment of clinical symptoms, along with additional tests if necessary, aimed at identifying the cause.

The main principles of prevention and treatment are:

Avoiding contact with the allergen (if known and identified);
Managing any existing infectious process;
Use of antihistamines;
In severe cases, corticosteroids or adrenaline may be required;
Chronic cases require long-term management.

One of the most effective treatments for urticaria is a first-generation antihistamine — Suprastin.

I have been using Suprastin successfully for years to treat allergic reactions, including urticaria.

Suprastin rapidly, powerfully, and effectively blocks the action of histamine, which causes allergy symptoms, relieves irritation, reduces rash, and restores normal quality of life;

Its effect begins very quickly — within 15–30 minutes — providing fast relief from itching and rash;
It has a calming effect, which helps with sleep disorders caused by nighttime itching;
It can be used in children from 1 month of age — Suprastin is a medication for the whole family;
Years of clinical practice, experience, and conducted studies confirm its safety.
Suprastin is also very effective in infectious diseases accompanied by itching, such as chickenpox.
Don’t forget — if urticaria does not resolve within 24–48 hours, or if it is accompanied by severe swelling, you must see a doctor.

Interview with Ketevan Omiadze