Delayed Pressure Urticaria

Delayed Pressure Urticaria (DPU) is a skin condition that can be both uncomfortable and frustrating. In this article, we will provide you with easy-to-understand information about DPU. We’ll cover the different types, common causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatment options, and medications available for managing this condition. By the end of this article, you should have a clear understanding of DPU and how to deal with it.

Types of Delayed Pressure Urticaria

1. Primary Delayed Pressure Urticaria: This is the most common type of DPU and occurs when pressure is applied to the skin, causing hives and itching.
2. Secondary Delayed Pressure Urticaria: This type can be triggered by underlying health conditions such as infections or autoimmune disorders.

Causes of Delayed Pressure Urticaria

1. Physical Pressure: Sitting, leaning, or any form of pressure on the skin can trigger DPU.
2. Clothing: Tight or restrictive clothing can cause DPU.
3. Exercising: Activities that involve pressure on the skin, like lifting weights or doing push-ups, may lead to DPU.
4. Backpacks or Bags: Carrying heavy backpacks or bags can put pressure on the shoulders and trigger hives.
5. Sleeping: Sleeping on your stomach or using heavy blankets can cause DPU.
6. Medical Conditions: Infections, autoimmune diseases, and thyroid disorders can contribute to DPU.
7. Emotional Stress: Stress can exacerbate DPU symptoms.
8. Heat and Sweat: Hot weather and sweating can aggravate DPU.
9. Allergies: Certain allergens can make DPU worse.
10. Insect Bites: Some individuals may experience DPU after insect bites.
11. Medications: Certain drugs may trigger DPU as a side effect.
12. Food Allergies: Consuming allergenic foods can worsen DPU.
13. Sun Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure may lead to DPU in some cases.
14. Friction: Rubbing or scratching the skin can cause hives.
15. Chemical Irritants: Contact with chemicals can trigger DPU.
16. Ill-Fitting Shoes: Tight or uncomfortable shoes can lead to foot DPU.
17. Chronic Illness: Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis may contribute to DPU.
18. Pregnancy: Some pregnant women experience DPU due to increased pressure on the skin.
19. Menstrual Cycle: Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can worsen DPU.
20. Inherited Genes: There may be a genetic component to DPU in some cases.

Symptoms of Delayed Pressure Urticaria

1. Hives: Raised, itchy welts on the skin.
2. Itching: Intense itching at the affected area.
3. Swelling: Swollen skin at the pressure point.
4. Redness: Skin may become red or flushed.
5. Pain: Some individuals may experience pain at the site of pressure.
6. Burning Sensation: The affected area may feel like it’s burning.
7. Warmth: Skin at the pressure point may feel warm to the touch.
8. Tingling: A tingling or pins-and-needles sensation.
9. Difficulty Breathing: Rarely, DPU can cause difficulty in breathing.
10. Headache: Sometimes, DPU may be accompanied by headaches.
11. Fatigue: Feeling tired after DPU flares.
12. Nausea: Nausea and vomiting in severe cases.
13. Sweating: Excessive sweating during an episode.
14. Anxiety: Anxiety may increase during DPU outbreaks.
15. Depression: Prolonged DPU can lead to feelings of depression.
16. Social Isolation: Some people may avoid social situations due to DPU.
17. Sleep Disturbance: Difficulty sleeping due to itching and discomfort.
18. Reduced Mobility: Limited movement during flare-ups.
19. Scarring: Repeated DPU may lead to scarring in some cases.
20. Emotional Stress: Dealing with DPU can be emotionally stressful.

Diagnostic Tests for Delayed Pressure Urticaria

1. Pressure Test: Applying pressure to the skin to see if hives develop.
2. Skin Biopsy: A small skin sample may be taken and examined under a microscope.
3. Blood Tests: To check for underlying conditions or allergies.
4. Allergy Testing: Identifying potential allergens that could trigger DPU.
5. Thyroid Function Tests: To rule out thyroid disorders.
6. Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check for infection or inflammation.
7. Autoimmune Panels: Assessing autoimmune markers.
8. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) Levels: Elevated levels may indicate allergies.
9. Physical Examination: Assessing the skin’s reaction to pressure.
10. Biophysical Measurement: Using specialized equipment to measure skin changes.
11. Skin Prick Test: Applying potential allergens to the skin to check for reactions.
12. Patch Testing: Applying chemicals to the skin to identify irritants.
13. Ultrasound: Imaging to assess skin and underlying tissue.
14. X-rays: Rarely used to investigate underlying causes.
15. Skin Scraping: Collecting skin cells for examination.
16. Histamine Challenge Test: Injecting histamine to provoke a reaction.
17. Thermography: Measuring skin temperature changes.
18. Dermoscopy: Examining the skin’s surface with a special microscope.
19. Genetic Testing: Identifying genetic factors associated with DPU.
20. Questionnaires: Assessing the impact of DPU on quality of life.

Treatment Options for Delayed Pressure Urticaria

1. Avoidance: Try to avoid situations that trigger DPU.
2. Loose Clothing: Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing.
3. Pressure Redistribution: Use cushions or pads to distribute pressure.
4. Antihistamines: Over-the-counter or prescription medications to reduce itching and hives.
5. Corticosteroids: Topical or oral steroids may be prescribed in severe cases.
6. Epinephrine: For severe, life-threatening reactions.
7. Mast Cell Stabilizers: Medications that prevent mast cells from releasing histamine.
8. Leukotriene Inhibitors: These drugs can help reduce symptoms.
9. Immunosuppressants: In some cases, medications that suppress the immune system may be used.
10. Monoclonal Antibodies: Newer treatments targeting specific immune responses.
11. Phototherapy: Exposure to UV light under controlled conditions.
12. Cold Compresses: Applying cold packs to affected areas.
13. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated can help manage symptoms.
14. Stress Management: Techniques like yoga or meditation can reduce stress-related flares.
15. Topical Creams: Calamine lotion or hydrocortisone creams for local relief.
16. Aloe Vera Gel: May soothe and cool irritated skin.
17. Dietary Changes: Avoiding trigger foods or allergens.
18. Antibiotics: If an infection is contributing to DPU.
19. Wound Care: Proper care for open sores or blisters.
20. Physical Therapy: To improve mobility and reduce pressure-related issues.
21. Psychological Support: Therapy to cope with emotional challenges.
22. Supportive Clothing: Specialized garments designed to reduce pressure.
23. Biologics: Newer medications that target specific immune pathways.
24. Nasal Decongestants: For relief from congestion during episodes.
25. Opioid Medications: For severe pain in some cases.
26. Heat and Ice Therapy: Alternating between hot and cold packs.
27. Homeopathic Remedies: Some people find relief with natural remedies.
28. Acupuncture: May help reduce symptoms in some individuals.
29. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: For mild pain and discomfort.
30. Occupational Therapy: Strategies for managing DPU in daily life.

Medications for Delayed Pressure Urticaria

1. Cetirizine (Zyrtec): An antihistamine.
2. Loratadine (Claritin): Another antihistamine option.
3. Fexofenadine (Allegra): An over-the-counter antihistamine.
4. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): An antihistamine that may cause drowsiness.
5. Hydroxyzine (Atarax): Used for itch relief and anxiety.
6. Prednisone: An oral corticosteroid.
7. Epinephrine Auto-Injector (EpiPen): For severe allergic reactions.
8. Montelukast (Singulair): A leukotriene inhibitor.
9. Omalizumab (Xolair): A monoclonal antibody.
10. Cromolyn Sodium (Gastrocrom): A mast cell stabilizer.
11. Methotrexate: An immunosuppressant.
12. Azathioprine (Imuran): Another immunosuppressant.
13. Ciclosporin (Neoral): An immunosuppressant used in severe cases.
14. Rituximab (Rituxan): A biologic medication.
15. Oxymetazoline (Afrin): A nasal decongestant.
16. Tramadol: An opioid pain reliever.
17. Amitriptyline: A medication that can help with pain and sleep.
18. Esomeprazole (Nexium): Used for acid reflux-related symptoms.
19. Tacrolimus (Prograf): An immunosuppressant option.
20. Bepotastine (Bepreve): An antihistamine eye drop for ocular DPU.

Conclusion

Delayed Pressure Urticaria can be a challenging condition, but understanding its types, causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatments, and medications can make it more manageable. If you or someone you know is dealing with DPU, consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment options. With the right approach, it’s possible to improve the quality of life for those affected by this condition.

 

Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, previous medical  history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.