All You Need to Know About Dermatographia

Dermatographia is a skin disease associated with scratching. Red lines appear on the areas scratched. The cells of the skin of an individual suffering from dermatographia are extremely sensitive to even the smallest of injuries, thereby resulting in inflammation and itching. The occurring symptoms are similar to Hives. The symptoms appear for a short span of time and fail to call for any intervention procedures. Antihistamines are recommended in case of any troublesome symptoms. Skin rubbing or scratching, causes inflammation, which, in turn results in scratching.

Causative factors can be as simple as rubbing of the dress or bed sheets. Sunlight, heat, cold and pressure initiate the symptoms of dermatographia. This condition is harmless and fails to have a lasting effect on the body. Initial symptoms can be noticed within a few minutes of exposure. They last from half an hour to a couple of hours. The chances of the pain and inflammation lasting for a few days are less. It is the most common variety of hives and is seen to occur in around 5 per cent of the population. Dermatographia, also accompanies an allergic reaction, though the allergen is yet to be researched.

Dermatographia affects up to 5 percent of the population and is the most common form of hives. The exact cause of dermatographia isn't clear. It may be caused by an allergic response, yet no specific allergen has been identified. Dermatitis or dryness of the skin increases the risk of dermatographia. The immune system that causes allergies also increases the risk of dermatographia. It is also seen to be hereditary in many a cases and occurs in the age range of 20 to 30 years.  A tongue depressor drawn across the back of the skin reveals the presence of this problem. Appearance of a wheal, within a few minutes, determines the presence of dermatographia.

A checklist or record of the possible allergens and the occurrence of symptoms proves beneficial. Stress and other emotional factors aggravate the situation, thereby making it difficult to identify the cause.  Though, dermatographia is not life-threatening, the affected individual feels bothersome and uncomfortable. Antihistamines are recommended, as they inhibit histamine, a chemical that causes swelling in case of allergy. It is consumed on a regular basis, based on the severity of the case. Try avoiding the need to scratch and keeping oneself away from harsh soaps is an effective method of avoidance. Possible triggers or stimulants, namely allergens are better avoided. Drink lots of water to keep hydrated and use moisturizers to leave the skin soft.