About 5 minute read

Subscribe to Allergy & Asthma Network’s YouTube channel and watch their webinar on chronic urticaria (53:57) here.

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What is Chronic Urticaria?

Chronic Urticaria is a condition where a person experiences hives that can last for six weeks or more. Hives can cause itching, swelling, and discomfort, often appearing suddenly and unpredictably. For many, identifying the triggers for these outbreaks is incredibly difficult, leaving patients with a sense of frustration and helplessness.

In their video, the Allergy & Asthma Network does a fantastic job of walking viewers through the journey of those living with chronic urticaria, offering insight into the diagnostic process and the complexities of managing this condition. For anyone dealing with urticaria, whether as a patient or Nurse Practitioner, this video provides a wealth of information and empathy for the hurdles patients face.

Key Takeaways from the Video

1. Patient Empowerment Through Diagnosis: The video sheds light on the complex and often lengthy process of diagnosing chronic urticaria. It can be a rollercoaster ride as patients struggle to pinpoint the cause of their symptoms, which sometimes remain unknown despite extensive testing. Through the stories shared, the video underscores the importance of patients advocating for themselves throughout their diagnosis journey.

2. Treatment Options: Chronic urticaria can be difficult to treat, but there are a variety of therapeutic approaches available, including antihistamines, corticosteroids, and biologic therapies such as omalizumab. The video explains how Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Associates work with patients to find the most effective treatments, often tailoring care to the individual’s specific needs and response to therapy.

3. The Importance of Management: Urticaria may not always have a clear cause, but effective management is possible. Through lifestyle adjustments, ongoing communication, and monitoring symptoms, many patients can find relief. The Allergy & Asthma Network's video emphasizes the value of building a long-term relationship with our patients, to adjust treatments as necessary and to empower patients to participate in tracking their progress over time.

4. Emotional Support and Quality of Life: Beyond the physical symptoms, chronic urticaria takes a toll on mental health and quality of life. The Allergy & Asthma Network emphasizes that emotional support is a crucial part of managing the condition, with mental health resources and support groups playing a significant role in helping patients cope with their condition.

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Subscribe to the Allergy & Asthma Network’s YouTube Channel

I invite you to watch the Allergy and Asthma Network’s collection of videos and share them with your colleagues, patients, and mentees. You can view the full transcript and video here. They cover topics related to allergies, asthma, and immunologic conditions.

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Additional Podcast Resources: Available on your favorite podcast app

-The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). CME available. Visit their website here.

-The Itch: Allergies, Asthma, Eczema & Immunology Podcast. Visit their website here.

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Kimberly Madison, DNP, AGPCNP-BC

I am a nurse practitioner with a passion for writing, entrepreneurship, education, and mentorship. I created this blog to share my journey as source of motivation and as a blueprint as you embark on your journey. Most importantly, I’m looking forward to increasing access to dermatology education and clinical training for aspiring and practicing nurse practitioners. I invite you to view the mission and vision statement on the homepage to see how we can best partner to make our dreams align.

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