Ailments & ConditionsYour Health

Waking up with Scratches: Causes and Treatment

Dermatographia

Dermatographia is a condition that causes similar symptoms to hives. It typically leads to welts or redness in areas affected by stroking, rubbing, or scratching. They tend to be caused by abnormal production of histamines and may show up 5 to 7 minutes after the irritation. In most cases, symptoms of dermatographia tend to disappear after around 30 minutes. Your doctor may prescribe some OTC antihistamines or a skincare routine to help control the symptoms. Since the exact causes are still not fully clear, it can be hard to prevent this condition. Hydration, personal hygiene, and skin care can all provide some protective benefits. [7]