If your body is itchy and changes appear on your skin, it could be a sign that…

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Specific causes of hives in women

  1. Fluctuations hormonales

    • Estrogen and progesterone affect immunity and skin receptors.

    • The premenstrual phase lowers the histamine response threshold.

    • Pregnancy resets the immune system and increases the risk of autoimmune/allergic reactions.

    • Menopause leads to instability of skin immunity.

  2. Allergy to cosmetics and personal care products.
    Perfumes, preservatives (parabens, MIT), phthalates, benzyl alcohol, heating anti-cellulite creams: all of these products can cause contact urticaria.

  3. Nutrition and Supplements
    Trending superfoods, protein powders, dietary supplements: whey, soy, peanuts, seafood, yeast, gluten – often the combination of “hormonal imbalance + allergen in a shake” is a winning recipe for a breakout.

  4. Role of stress:
    Psycho-emotional tensions (domestic, family, professional) act as a trigger, comparable to diet or medication. Cortisol and adrenaline activate mast cells and weaken the skin barrier.

  5. Infections – not just a
    cold Urethritis, vaginitis, Helicobacter pylori, candidiasis, Epstein-Barr, herpes – the chronic infectious load keeps the immune system “on alert”.

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Types of hives

  • Acute  – up to 6-8 weeks, usually a trigger (shrimp at lunch → rash in the evening).

  • Chronic  – attacks lasting more than 6 weeks or recurring; often multifactorial (hormones, stress, cosmetics) and with an autoimmune component. Women are particularly vulnerable during pregnancy, menopause or chronic infections.

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Warning signs

  • Angioedema  – swelling of the face, lips, eyelids, tongue, throat (risk of suffocation).

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing  , wheezing, hoarse voice.

  • Systemic symptoms  – dizziness, rapid pulse, drop in blood pressure – possible anaphylaxis.
    In the event of these symptoms: emergency assistance and adrenaline if necessary.

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Diagnostic

  1. Rash Diary  – Date, Food, Drinks, Medications, Cosmetics, Stress, Temperature.

  2. Laboratory  – blood count, IgE, skin tests.

  3. Elimination and provocation  – the “exclude – observe – send back” method.

  4. Consultation with a dermatologist/therapist  – mandatory in case of chronic form and/or Quincke’s edema.