Interview transcription:
Penelope Pratsou recommends what someone should do first if they have either an acute case of hives or chronic hives.
What should you do if you have hives (urticaria)?
Penelope Pratsou: If you have an acute case of hives, it might be worth looking into whether you’ve had any new medication that could have caused it. Obviously, you might wish to try some antihistamines for yourself. Still, if these simple measures are not doing the trick, then I would invite you to come and see me for a consultation, especially if this has been carrying on for some time.
Penelope Pratsou: I can then see you and discuss what’s going on, try and test out whether any specific triggers could be causing these hives and see if any tests are necessary and then discuss the best treatment options with you. Then we can get things under control as quickly as possible.
If you notice that you have any of the symptoms or conditions that we’ve just discussed, we invite you to book a consultation with Dr Penelope Pratsou. She’ll be able to assess your situation and give you a personalised treatment plan.
About the author
Dr Penelope Pratsou | Consultant Dermatologist
MBChB, MRCP (UK) (Dermatology)
I’m Dr Penelope Pratsou, a skilled independent Consultant Dermatologist based in Berkshire. I have specialist expertise in the diagnosis and management of all skin cancers, and in performing mole checks. I’m a trained skin surgeon and remove skin cancers, moles, skin tags, cysts and warts.
I also have invaluable experience in dealing with all skin conditions, from the common skin complaints of acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis, to the rarer and more complex skin problems, having seen it all through years of NHS work.
After I obtained my Membership to the Royal College of Physicians, I undertook rigorous specialist training in dermatology, before being appointed as a Consultant Dermatologist at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, Reading. There, I helped set up and lead a busy clinic for the diagnosis and treatment of suspected skin cancer. I was also actively involved in supervising and training both dermatology and GP trainees.
Alongside my increasingly busy private practice, I have maintained an NHS practice in Oxford in order to continue to engage with challenging cases and to develop my specialist interest in skin allergy.
