Writing skin disease, also known as dermographism or dermatographism, is a non-contagious condition that causes red, raised welts on the skin when pressure is applied. It is a form of urticaria and can be uncomfortable and unpleasant, but not life-threatening. There is no known cure, but treatment focuses on reducing symptoms with antihistamines or other therapies. Patients can take preventative measures such as reducing stress and avoiding hot baths or tight clothing.
People who notice red, raised welts on their skin when pressure is applied to it may be suffering from a condition known as writing skin disease. Also called dermographism or dermatographism, it is a non-contagious disease that is a form of urticaria or urticaria. Any type of pressure on the skin, from stroking to scratching, can trigger an outbreak, and hives will typically follow the pattern of the pressure, making it possible to write recognizable figures such as words or numbers on the skin. Hives occur due to the release of histamine in the skin, although the underlying cause of the disorder is unknown.
While not considered dangerous or life-threatening, skin writting disease can be uncomfortable and unpleasant for patients with the disorder. In addition to hives, patients usually also experience severe itching and sometimes a burning sensation during a rash; this can lead to a vicious cycle of scratching which then makes the bruising worse. The condition can also be distressing and embarrassing if bruises arise on the face and neck, particularly if they take a long time to clear up; it can take anywhere from half an hour to days for the skin to return to normal.
Just like there is no known cause for skin write disease, there is no known cure either. Treatment for the disease is typically focused on reducing symptoms by finding the right type and dosage of antihistamine for a patient. Other possible treatments may include phototherapy or exposing the affected skin to controlled doses of ultraviolet radiation and shots of adrenaline or cortisone, although this is typically only done for severe cases. In some cases, the disease will simply clear up on its own, but many patients will continue to have outbreaks for years and even the rest of their lives. These patients may choose to seek alternative treatments such as acupuncture or natural antihistamines such as vitamin C or butterbur.
There are a variety of preventative measures that patients with writing-on-the-skin disease can take to reduce the likelihood or intensity of an attack. Stress can often trigger an outbreak, so patients should take steps to reduce it. If possible, hot baths and showers should also be avoided, as well as tight clothing or things like watches and jewelry that may rub against the skin. Some people may benefit from switching to hypoallergenic soaps or detergents. For the small number of patients whose hives are triggered by a known allergen, that substance should be avoided.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
