Papular urticaria is a condition characterized by red itchy bumps which may range from 2 millimeter to 2 centimeter in diameter. These bumps may be filled with fluids, giving them a typical appearance of blisters. While they can be present on any part of the body, they are more frequently observed on uncovered/ exposed skin surfaces like hands, face and legs.
Papular urticaria is more frequently observed during summers and typically passes off during winters. They may also be common in particular types of households with wooden structures. The condition is more frequently observed in individuals with pets, typically cats and dogs.
Recurrence of papular urticaria without any apparent cause is also common. In most cases, papular urticaria is not due to an internal hemodynamic, but often linked to environmental causes.
Papular urticaria is often a result of an allergic reaction. This allergic reaction can be to an insect bite particularly fleas and mites. Allergic reaction to certain allergens in food can also lead to papular urticaria. Papular urticaria may also emerge as a reaction to bird mites, carpet beetles and caterpillars.
In adults, a condition called ‘prurigo simplex’ is characterized by chronic papular urticaria and the cause for the condition is not known.
Symptoms Of Papular Urticaria
Papular urticaria is associated with a host of symptoms.
- The primary symptom/ manifestation associated with this condition is the formation or reddish, well demarcated papules on the skin which range from 2 mm to 2 cm in size.
- These papules are red and associated with severe itching. In some cases, they may be associated with fluid filled blisters.
- Repeated scratching of these blisters can lead to secondary infections. These secondary infections often convert the fluid filled blisters into pus filled blisters. Systemic symptoms like fever, malaise, etc may also be present. If not treated promptly, the condition can be associated with high risk of septicemia.
- As the blisters settle down, they leave behind spots or scars which may last for a few weeks to several months. These scars typically resolve over a period of time, but may persist if they are associated with deep scratching.
Natural Remedies For Papular Urticaria
Some of the essential home remedies that can be beneficial in the treatment of papular urticaria include,
- Local application of paste of turmeric is very effective. Turmeric has strong anti inflammatory properties which can help reduce the allergic response.
- Internal consumption of garlic has action similar to NSAIDs. Crush three to six flakes of garlic and consume them with raw honey, at least twice a day. Note that consumption of garlic is often associated with garlic breath, which may be offensive, but inevitable side effect of garlic consumption.
- Homeopathy provides sustained relief to urticaria. Consumption of Apis Mel in low dosages during an acute episode of the condition can help alleviate the symptoms of itching, redness and blistering. To avoid recurrence of the condition, drugs like Arsenic Album, Sulphur and Graphitis are considered to be useful. Seek the opinion of a qualified homeopathic doctor to help with the selection of the right medication.
Finally, taking necessary precautions like using insect regulators, spraying anti-insect sprays, protecting the uncovered parts of the body, etc can help in preventing a recurrence.