Causes of skin rash with wheals

The causes of a skin rash with wheals are very diverse. A common cause of an acute skin rash with wheals is an intolerance or allergy. Especially food allergies can lead to such rashes.

Often such rashes also occur in people who have already developed neurodermatitis. Typical allergens are egg, milk, soya, peanuts, wheat or fish. The second most common cause of temporary skin rashes with wheals is exertion urticaria. Here, a rash with wheals develops after thermal, mental or physical stress.

Diagnosis of skin rash with wheals

The diagnosis of a rash with wheals is made by a dermatologist. Often such rashes are very volatile, so it is best to see a doctor immediately after the rash appears. The medical history is particularly important for diagnosis.

In this way possible allergens and other causes can be identified. Blood tests also provide information about possible causes, such as allergies, autoimmune diseases or even tumor diseases. Typically, allergy values (RAST laboratory, total IgE, ECP), thyroid gland values, rheumatoid factors, inflammation values (CRP, BSG) and a differential blood count are determined.

In addition, special diagnostic tests can be performed to clarify hepatitis or infection with Helicobacter pylori. If necessary, a stool test can be performed to clarify further infections. Only in rare cases skin samples are part of the diagnostic procedure.

Accompanying symptoms of skin rash with wheals

A very common accompanying symptom of a rash with wheals is burning itching. Especially allergic rashes or rashes in the context of neurodermatitis are characterized by tormenting itching. The rash occurs mainly at night and affects the arms, back and legs.Allergic skin rashes with wheals can also be accompanied by shortness of breath, circulatory problems and even allergic shock.

A further accompanying symptom of a rash with wheals can be the so-called angioedema. This manifests itself as swelling of the eyelids and lips, which subsides after about one to two days. Itching is a very common symptom of a rash with wheals.

Especially an allergic rash is often accompanied by severe itching. This has a burning, stinging character and is perceived as very distressing. The itching gets worse, especially at night, and often robs the affected person of sleep.

It is caused by a release of histamine from mast cells. For this reason, so-called antihistamines are used therapeutically to treat itching. Some antihistamines, such as Fenistil, not only relieve itching, but also sedate it, so that they can make sleep easier in the evening.

Especially in cases of very tormenting itching, medications for sleeping, such as zolpidem, mirtazapine or pipamperone, can be prescribed. A classic urticaria, i.e. a rash with wheals, is typically accompanied by itching. A complete absence of itching may occur, but is rather rare. If itching is completely absent, other diagnoses similar to urticaria may be considered. Other skin rashes, fungal diseases or eczema should be clarified at least if the diagnosis is uncertain.