A panic attack (serangan panik) is a sudden rush of intense fear with strong physical symptoms, such as a pounding heart, chest pain and feeling unable to breathe. It can feel like something terrible is happening, but according to the NHS, panic attacks are not dangerous and will not cause you physical harm. Most attacks last between 5 and 20 minutes. If they keep coming back, panic disorder is treatable with talking therapy, medicine or both. This guide explains the tanda panic attack, how it differs from an anxiety attack and a heart attack, cara tenangkan diri during an attack, and where to get help in Malaysia.

Apa itu panic attack?

According to the NHS, during a panic attack you get a rush of intense mental and physical symptoms. It can come on very quickly and for no apparent reason. Anxiety is a feeling of unease that ranges from mild to severe, and panic is the most severe form of anxiety.

Panic attacks are common. Cleveland Clinic reports that up to 11% of people in the United States have a panic attack each year. Not everyone who has a panic attack develops panic disorder, which is when attacks keep happening (see panic disorder). In Chinese, a panic attack is called 恐慌發作.

Women are affected more often. In a large US survey reported by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), 3.8% of women had panic disorder in the past year, compared with 1.6% of men, and it was most common between the ages of 30 and 44.

Tanda panic attack: symptoms

According to the NHS, symptoms of a panic attack include:

Cleveland Clinic says symptoms usually peak within 10 minutes and then fade. The NHS says most panic attacks last 5 to 20 minutes, and some have been reported to last up to an hour. Some people have attacks once or twice a month, while others have them several times a week.

The NHS also points out that most of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. For example, a racing or pounding heart (palpitations) can also be caused by caffeine, an overactive thyroid (tiroid), iron deficiency (kurang darah), menopause or a heart rhythm problem. This is why it helps to see a doctor after your first attacks.

Panic attack vs anxiety attack

People often use the two terms in the same way, but Cleveland Clinic explains the difference:

If you feel anxious most of the time and it affects your daily life, it may be generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) rather than panic disorder. According to the NHS, symptoms of GAD include worry that is hard to control, difficulty sleeping (see our guide to susah tidur), feeling restless or tense, and getting tired easily. It is common to have more than one type of anxiety disorder at the same time.

Panic attack or heart attack?

Chest pain and a racing heart are frightening because they can also be signs of a heart attack. If in doubt, get checked.

According to the NHS, call 999 immediately if you have:

• sudden pain or discomfort in your chest that does not go away, which can feel like squeezing or pressure, burning or indigestion;
• pain that spreads to your left or right arm, or your neck, jaw, stomach or back;
• chest pain and you feel sweaty, sick, light-headed or short of breath;
• palpitations that do not go away, or that come with chest pain, shortness of breath or fainting.

The NHS chest pain guide lists an often sharp, continuous pain triggered by worries or a stressful situation, with a faster heartbeat, sweating and dizziness, as typical of anxiety or a panic attack. But many signs overlap, so do not try to tell them apart on your own the first time. NICE says people who go to an emergency department with a panic attack should have the minimum tests needed to rule out an acute physical problem and then be referred to primary care for follow-up. For more, see our guides to serangan jantung, sakit dada and sesak nafas.

Cara tenangkan diri during a panic attack

The NHS advises that the next time you feel a panic attack coming on, you should:

• stay where you are, if possible;
• breathe slowly and deeply;
• remind yourself that the attack will pass;
• focus on positive, peaceful and relaxing images;
• remember it is not life threatening.

A simple breathing exercise. The NHS breathing exercise for stress, anxiety and panic takes a few minutes and can be done anywhere:

1. Sit or stand with your feet flat on the ground, roughly hip-width apart, and loosen any tight clothing if you can.
2. Breathe in gently through your nose, letting the breath flow deep into your belly without forcing it. It may help to count steadily from 1 to 5.
3. Let the breath flow out gently through your mouth, counting from 1 to 5 again.
4. Keep going for at least 5 minutes. It works best if you practise it regularly, not only during an attack.

Cleveland Clinic suggests a few more steps: name it ("this is a panic attack, it will be uncomfortable, but it will end"), and use your senses to shift your focus, such as washing your face or smelling something pleasant.

Punca panic attack

According to the NHS, the exact cause of panic disorder is not fully understood, but it is thought to be linked to a combination of things, including:

• a traumatic or very stressful life experience, such as bereavement;
• having a close family member with panic disorder;
• an imbalance of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) in the brain.

Cleveland Clinic adds that there is often no specific trigger. Some attacks are set off by a phobia, such as a fear of needles or flying, and for some people the fear of having another attack is enough to trigger one. The NHS says caffeine, alcohol, smoking and sugary food and drinks can all make attacks worse, so it may help to cut down on strong kopi, energy drinks and very sweet drinks if you notice a link.

Panic and depression often occur together, and NICE asks doctors to look out for both. In Malaysia, the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023 found that about 1 million people aged 16 and above (4.6%) have depression, double the number in 2019. If you also feel low most of the time, see our guide to kemurungan.

Panic disorder: when attacks keep coming back

According to the NHS, someone with panic disorder has feelings of anxiety, stress and panic regularly and at any time, often for no apparent reason. You may be diagnosed with panic disorder if you have regular and unexpected panic attacks followed by at least a month of continuous worry about having more attacks.

The NHS describes how this can become a cycle of living "in fear of fear": you start avoiding places or situations that you think might trigger an attack, which adds to the panic. Without treatment, panic disorder can become very difficult to cope with, and it raises the risk of other problems such as agoraphobia or other phobias, or alcohol or drug problems.

Rawatan: therapy and medicine

The NHS says talking therapies and medicine are the main treatments for panic disorder. Treatment aims to reduce the number of attacks and ease your symptoms.

CBT in a Malaysian setting. Malaysian psychiatrists have adapted CBT to local culture and religion, using a CBT manual in Bahasa Malaysia. In one published case from Malaysia, a 34-year-old man with panic disorder and agoraphobia had sessions that combined slow breathing and relaxation (including Islamic prayer and Quran recitation) with standard CBT exercises, and his panic attacks and anxiety reduced markedly. This is a single case, but it shows that therapy can be shaped to fit your beliefs; ask your therapist about this if it matters to you.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before starting or stopping any medicine.

How to reduce panic attacks

According to the NHS, these may help prevent further attacks:

• a self-help book for anxiety based on CBT principles; ask your doctor to recommend one;
• activities such as yoga and pilates to help you relax;
• regular breathing exercises for stress;
• regular physical exercise to reduce stress and tension; NICE also says doctors should discuss the benefits of exercise with people with panic disorder;
• avoiding sugary food and drinks, caffeine and alcohol, and stopping smoking, as they can all make attacks worse.

Cleveland Clinic also suggests keeping a log of your attacks: when and where they happen, how long they last and anything that might have triggered them. Seeing attacks become shorter or less frequent can build confidence.

Where to get help in Malaysia

The NHS advises seeing a doctor if you have symptoms of panic disorder. The doctor will ask how often you get symptoms and how long you have had them, and may examine you to rule out other conditions. It can be hard to talk about your feelings, but try not to feel embarrassed: panic disorder is common and treatable.

• Klinik kesihatan or a private clinic: a doctor can check for physical causes and refer you for counselling, psychology or psychiatry services.
• Talian HEAL 15555: the Ministry of Health's mental health support line.
• Befrienders KL +603-7627 2929: emotional support, 24 hours.
• 999: for chest pain you are unsure about, or if you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Apa itu panic attack (what is a panic attack)?

A panic attack is a sudden rush of intense fear with strong physical symptoms, such as a racing heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling and a fear of dying. According to the NHS, most panic attacks last between 5 and 20 minutes. They are frightening but not dangerous, and an attack will not cause you any physical harm.

What is the difference between a panic attack and an anxiety attack?

A panic attack usually comes on suddenly, often without warning, and peaks within minutes. Anxiety attack is not a medical term: Cleveland Clinic notes that the DSM-5-TR, the main diagnostic manual, does not define it, and it is usually an everyday term for a panic attack. Anxiety itself tends to build up gradually in response to stress or worry.

Cara tenangkan diri semasa panic attack: what should I do during an attack?

The NHS advises staying where you are if possible, breathing slowly and deeply, reminding yourself that the attack will pass and is not life threatening, and focusing on positive, peaceful and relaxing images. Breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth while counting from 1 to 5 can help.

Is it a panic attack or a heart attack?

They can feel similar, so if you are not sure, get help. According to the NHS, call 999 if chest pain feels tight or like squeezing, spreads to your arms, neck, jaw, stomach or back, or comes with sweating, feeling sick, light-headedness or shortness of breath. Do not self-diagnose new chest pain: a doctor can do the tests needed to rule out a heart problem.

Apa punca panic attack (what causes panic attacks)?

The exact cause is not fully understood. The NHS says panic disorder is thought to be linked to a traumatic or very stressful life experience such as bereavement, having a close family member with panic disorder, and an imbalance of chemical messengers in the brain. Caffeine, alcohol, smoking and sugary food and drinks can make attacks worse.

Can panic attacks be cured?

Panic disorder is treatable. The NHS says talking therapies and medicine are the main treatments. NICE recommends cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), usually 7 to 14 hours in total over up to 4 months, and antidepressants such as SSRIs when medicine is needed. It advises against benzodiazepines for panic disorder.

Where can I get help for panic attacks in Malaysia?

Start with a doctor at a klinik kesihatan or private clinic, who can check for physical causes and refer you for therapy. You can also call Talian HEAL 15555, the Ministry of Health's mental health line, or Befrienders KL on +603-7627 2929 (24 hours). If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, call 999.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or mental health professional. Health supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

References

• Panic disorder — NHS
• Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults: symptoms — NHS
• Breathing exercises for stress — NHS
• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) — NHS
• Chest pain — NHS
• Heart attack: symptoms — NHS
• Heart palpitations — NHS
• Generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder in adults: management (CG113), recommendations — NICE
• Panic disorder statistics — National Institute of Mental Health
• Panic attacks and panic disorder — Cleveland Clinic
• What's the difference between a panic attack and an anxiety attack? — Cleveland Clinic
• National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023: key findings — Institute for Public Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia
• Subhas N, Mukhtar F, Munawar K. Adapting cognitive-behavioral therapy for a Malaysian Muslim. Med J Islam Repub Iran. 2021;35:28
• Talian HEAL terima 163,709 panggilan dalam tempoh tiga tahun — Berita RTM (January 2026)
• Befrienders Kuala Lumpur

Skin cancer (kanser kulit) can often be treated successfully when it is found early, and the main cause, ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, is one you can protect yourself from. The two main groups are non-melanoma skin cancer, which is more common, and melanoma, which is less common but more serious. People with brown skin have a lower chance of skin cancer but can still get it, and in Asians melanoma often appears on the soles of the feet, palms or under a nail, where it is easy to miss. This guide covers the tanda kanser kulit, which tahi lalat (moles) to check, Malaysian data and how to use sunscreen properly.

Apa itu kanser kulit?

According to the NHS, non-melanoma skin cancer is a common type of cancer that starts in the top layer of skin. The main types are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and it can often be easily treated.

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other areas of the body. The NHS says it is less common and usually more serious than non-melanoma skin cancer. It often starts as a new mole or a change in an existing mole.

Worldwide, the WHO reports that over 1.5 million skin cancers were diagnosed in 2020, including around 1.2 million non-melanoma skin cancers and 325,000 melanomas, and over 120,000 people died from skin cancer that year.

Kanser kulit di Malaysia

According to the Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report 2017-2021 from the Ministry of Health:

• 4,346 cases of non-melanoma skin cancer and 509 melanomas were registered from 2017 to 2021;
• non-melanoma skin cancer was the eighth most common cancer in men; in women, with 1,881 cases, it ranked just outside the top 10;
• about three in four women with non-melanoma skin cancer (1,429 of 1,881) were aged 60 or older, but 55 of the 242 women with melanoma were younger than 50;
• among women with non-melanoma skin cancer and a recorded stage, 63.9% were found at stage 1;
• among women with melanoma and a recorded stage, 45.7% were found at stage 4 and 20.2% at stage 3.

*Age-standardised incidence rate. Source: Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report 2017-2021, incidence summary and staging tables. The rate of non-melanoma skin cancer was higher in Chinese women than in Malay or Indian women.

Tanda kanser kulit (non-melanoma)

According to the NHS, the main symptom of non-melanoma skin cancer is a growth or unusual patch on the skin. It is most common in areas exposed to the sun, such as the:

• head, face and ears;
• neck and shoulders;
• back;
• hands;
• lower legs.

The growths or patches can vary in colour, size and texture. Some are bumpy, rough or crusty, and some start as a flat discoloured patch. They can be purple, brown or red, and the patches may be darker on brown or black skin. Not every new growth is cancer (for example, see our guide to ketuat), but the NHS advises seeing a doctor if:

• a growth on your skin is getting bigger or has changed colour or texture;
• a growth or area of skin hurts, itches, bleeds, crusts or scabs for more than 4 weeks.

Tahi lalat: normal or melanoma?

Most people have moles, and they are usually nothing to worry about. According to the NHS, it is normal for new moles to appear, especially in children and teenagers, for moles to fade as you get older, and for moles to get slightly darker during pregnancy (see our guide to tanda-tanda mengandung). Moles are usually darker on brown and black skin.

The NHS says a new mole or a change in an existing mole may be a sign of melanoma. Compare your moles with these signs:

Other warning signs include a mole that is swollen and sore, bleeding, itchy or crusty. If a mole is itchy, it is worth having it checked rather than assuming it is just gatal kulit.

Melanoma on the soles, palms and nails

According to the NHS, people with black or brown skin most often get melanoma on the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, or under a nail. This type, on the hands and feet, is called acral melanoma, and Malaysian studies show why it is easy to miss:

• In a study of 33 patients with acral melanoma at Sarawak General Hospital, acral melanoma made up 62.3% of malignant melanomas. The most common site was the heel (39.4%), and most patients came with an enlarging lump (60.6%) or a sore that would not heal (24.2%); only 15.2% came with an abnormal dark patch. Most cases were already at an advanced stage.
• At University Malaya Medical Centre, of 24 patients with melanoma, 12 had it on the sole of the foot, and 62.5% were at stage 3 when diagnosed.
• Doctors in Malaysia have reported melanomas on the foot that were first mistaken for diabetic foot ulcers, and advise a skin biopsy for any foot ulcer that looks unusual. If you have diabetes and a foot sore that is not healing or looks unusual, ask your doctor to check it.

The NHS advises seeing a doctor if you have a new or unusual mark on your skin that has not gone away after a few weeks, including on the palms or soles, or a dark area under a nail that has not been caused by an injury.

Punca dan faktor risiko

According to the NHS, ultraviolet (UV) light is the most common cause of both non-melanoma skin cancer and melanoma. It comes from the sun and is used in sunbeds. Skin cancer is more common in older people, but younger people can also get it. You are more likely to get skin cancer if you have:

• pale skin that burns easily in the sun;
• red or fair hair, or blue or green eyes;
• a large number of freckles or moles;
• had a lot of sun exposure, and sunburn a lot in the past;
• used sunbeds a lot;
• a history of skin cancer in your family, or had skin cancer before.

If you have brown or black skin, the NHS says you have a lower chance of getting skin cancer, but you can still get it. The NHS also says there is no safe or healthy way to get a tan, and a tan does not protect your skin from the sun.

UV in Malaysia: why sun protection matters

The WHO says sun protection is recommended when the UV index is 3 or above. In Malaysia, readings often go much higher. In August 2026, MetMalaysia data showed the UV index in Kota Kinabalu reaching an extreme level of 11 at noon, and a reading of 12 was recorded in Petaling Jaya. On MetMalaysia's scale, 8 to 10 is very high and 11 or above is extreme.

MetMalaysia advised the public to reduce outdoor activities between 11am and 4pm, when UV tends to peak, and to use protective clothing, a hat, UV-filtering sunglasses and sunblock with an SPF of at least 30. UV can also harm the eyes: the WHO estimates that about 10% of the 15 million people blind from cataracts may be due to UV exposure (see our guide to katarak).

UV also ages the skin: the WHO lists premature skin ageing among the long-term effects of UV. For sun-related dark patches, see our guide to jeragat.

Cara cegah kanser kulit: sunscreen and more

The NHS advises spending time in the shade when the sun is strongest, covering up with suitable clothing and sunglasses, and using sunscreen. Its sunscreen advice:

Other NHS and WHO advice:

• Do not rely on sunscreen alone. The WHO says shade and clothing protect better than sunscreen, and sunscreen should not be used to stay in the sun for longer.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat that shades the face, neck and ears, and long sleeves or long skirts in close-weave fabrics.
• Wear wraparound sunglasses that block UVA and UVB.
• Keep babies under 6 months out of direct strong sunlight.
• Avoid sunbeds; the WHO says sunbed use increases the risk of skin cancer.

Does sunscreen work? A randomised trial of 1,621 adults in Nambour, Australia, compared daily sunscreen with using it only when people chose to. After 4.5 years, the daily sunscreen group had significantly fewer squamous cell carcinoma tumours, although there was no difference in basal cell carcinomas. Ten years after the trial ended, the daily group had 11 new melanomas compared with 22 in the other group; this difference was borderline statistically, but invasive melanomas were clearly fewer (3 vs 11). Among participants under 55, the daily group also showed 24% less skin ageing. The trial was done in Queensland, Australia, so the size of the benefit may differ in Malaysia.

If you have dry skin or dark patches, see our guides to kulit kering and jeragat for choosing a sunscreen. The WHO notes that small amounts of UV help the body make vitamin D, but artificial tanning should never be used to get enough vitamin D.

Rawatan kanser kulit

According to the NHS, non-melanoma skin cancer can usually be treated effectively, and melanoma can often be treated, especially if it is found early. Surgery is the main treatment for both.

If melanoma has spread to other parts of the body, the NHS says it may not be possible to cure it, and treatment aims to limit the cancer and its symptoms and help you live longer. This is why checking your skin, including your feet and nails, matters.

When to see a doctor

According to the NHS, see a doctor if:

• you have a mole that has changed size, shape or colour, or is painful, itchy, inflamed, bleeding or crusty;
• you have a growth on your skin that is getting bigger or has changed colour or texture;
• a spot or area of skin hurts, itches, bleeds, crusts or scabs for more than 4 weeks;
• you have a new or unusual mark that has not gone away after a few weeks, including on the palms or soles;
• you have a dark area under a nail that has not been caused by an injury.

If the doctor thinks it could be skin cancer, they may refer you to a skin specialist (dermatologist).

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Apa tanda awal kanser kulit (early signs of skin cancer)?

According to the NHS, the main sign of non-melanoma skin cancer is a growth or unusual patch on the skin, most often on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, hands and lower legs. The main sign of melanoma is a new mole or a change in an existing mole. See a doctor if a growth is getting bigger or changing colour or texture, or if a spot hurts, itches, bleeds, crusts or scabs for more than 4 weeks.

Tahi lalat macam mana yang bahaya (which moles could be cancer)?

The NHS says normal moles are usually round with smooth edges, only 1 colour and do not change over time. A mole may be a melanoma if it has an uneven shape or edges, a mix of 2 or more colours, is larger than 6mm wide, or changes in size, shape or colour. Also get checked if a mole is swollen, sore, bleeding, itchy or crusty, or if you have a dark area under a nail that was not caused by an injury.

Can Asians or people with brown skin get skin cancer?

Yes. The NHS says people with brown or black skin have a lower chance of skin cancer, but they can still get it. Melanoma in people with darker skin most often appears on the soles of the feet, palms of the hands or under a nail. In Malaysia, 1,881 women were diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer and 242 with melanoma from 2017 to 2021, according to the national cancer registry.

Apa punca kanser kulit (what causes skin cancer)?

Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun and from sunbeds is the most common cause, according to the NHS. Your chance is higher if you have pale skin that burns easily, a large number of freckles or moles, a lot of sun exposure or sunburn in the past, have used sunbeds a lot, or have a personal or family history of skin cancer. Skin cancer is more common in older people, but younger people can also get it.

SPF 30 or SPF 50: which sunscreen should I use?

The NHS advises a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 that also protects against UVA, and MetMalaysia has advised sunblock of at least SPF 30 on days of very high UV. Using enough matters too: the NHS says adults need around 6 to 8 teaspoons to cover the whole body, applied before going out and reapplied every 2 hours and after swimming, sweating or towel drying. Do not rely on sunscreen alone; also use shade, clothing, a hat and sunglasses.

Kanser kulit boleh sembuh (can skin cancer be cured)?

Often, especially when found early. The NHS says non-melanoma skin cancer can usually be treated effectively, and surgery is the main treatment. Melanoma can often be treated too, especially if it is found early, but if it has spread it may not be possible to cure it; treatment then aims to limit the cancer and help you live longer. In Malaysia, 63.9% of women with non-melanoma skin cancer and a recorded stage were diagnosed at stage 1.

Does sunscreen really prevent skin cancer?

Regular sunscreen helps, as part of overall sun protection. In a randomised trial of 1,621 adults in Nambour, Australia, people who applied sunscreen daily had fewer squamous cell carcinomas, and 10 years later had fewer new melanomas than those who used it only when they chose to (11 vs 22). The trial was done in Australia, so results may differ in Malaysia. The WHO says shade and clothing protect better than sunscreen alone.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor. Health supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

References

• What is non-melanoma skin cancer? — NHS
• Symptoms of non-melanoma skin cancer — NHS
• Causes of non-melanoma skin cancer — NHS
• Treatment for non-melanoma skin cancer — NHS
• What is melanoma skin cancer? — NHS
• Symptoms of melanoma skin cancer — NHS
• Causes of melanoma skin cancer — NHS
• Treatment for melanoma skin cancer — NHS
• Moles — NHS
• Sunscreen and sun safety — NHS
• Ultraviolet radiation — World Health Organization
• Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report 2017-2021 — National Cancer Institute, Ministry of Health Malaysia
• UV Index to hit extreme levels — The Star (8 August 2026)
• Kota Kinabalu hits extreme level on UV index — The Star (10 August 2026)
• Green A, et al. Daily sunscreen application and betacarotene supplementation in prevention of basal-cell and squamous-cell carcinomas of the skin: a randomised controlled trial. Lancet. 1999;354(9180):723-729
• Green AC, et al. Reduced melanoma after regular sunscreen use: randomized trial follow-up. J Clin Oncol. 2011;29(3):257-263
• Hughes MC, et al. Sunscreen and prevention of skin aging: a randomized trial. Ann Intern Med. 2013;158(11):781-790
• Zainal AI, et al. Acral melanoma of the extremities: a study of 33 cases Sarawakian patients. Med J Malaysia. 2012;67(1):60-65
• Pailoor J, et al. Cutaneous malignant melanoma: clinical and histopathological review of cases in a Malaysian tertiary referral centre. Malays J Pathol. 2012;34(2):97-101
• Hussin P, et al. Malignant melanoma of the foot in patients with diabetes mellitus: a trap for the unwary. Med J Malaysia. 2012;67(4):422-423

Gegata (hives, or urticaria) is an itchy rash of raised bumps or patches that usually gets better within a few days, and you can often treat it yourself. Each spot usually fades within 24 hours, but new ones can keep appearing. Common triggers include food, medicines, heat, stress and infections, although no cause is found in many people with long-lasting hives. This guide covers the tanda and punca gegata, why it can feel worse waktu malam, petua that dermatologists recommend, ubat gegata from the pharmacy, and when gegata is an emergency.

Apa itu gegata (hives)?

Gegata, also called biduran, is the Malay name for hives. The medical name is urticaria (urtikaria). According to the NHS, you get hives when something causes high levels of histamine and other chemicals to be released in your skin.

Hives are very common. The international urticaria guideline, published in 2026 by experts from 59 countries, estimates that up to 20% of people get urticaria at some point in their life. Doctors divide it into two types by how long it lasts:

Some people also get angioedema, a deeper swelling under the skin. According to the NHS, it most often affects the lips, eyelids, tongue, hands, feet or genitals. Swelling of the throat is an emergency (see when to get help).

Tanda gegata: what hives look like

According to the NHS, the main symptom of hives is an itchy rash. The rash can:

• be raised bumps or patches in many shapes and sizes;
• appear anywhere on the body, on 1 area or spread across the body;
• feel itchy, sting or burn;
• look pink or red on white skin; the colour can be harder to see on brown and black skin.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) adds a few signs that help tell hives apart from other rashes:

• A hive often feels warm and turns pale when you press on it.
• On brown skin, hives are often the same colour as your skin, or slightly darker or lighter.
• Spots range from the size of a pinhead to larger than a dinner plate, and can join together into large raised patches.
• Hives tend to appear suddenly and move around: an individual hive usually disappears within 24 hours, while new ones appear elsewhere.
• On darker skin, hives can leave dark spots (hyperpigmentation) as they clear.

Gegata or another rash?

Many itchy rashes look alike. These differences can help you decide what to do next, but see a doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure:

If each spot lasts much longer than a day, the rash may not be hives, and a doctor may need to check for other conditions. For other causes of itching, see our guide to gatal kulit.

Punca gegata: common triggers

According to the NHS, triggers for hives can include:

• eating certain foods;
• contact with certain plants, animals, chemicals and latex;
• cold, such as cold water or wind;
• hot, sweaty skin from exercise, emotional stress or eating spicy food;
• a reaction to a medicine, insect bite or sting;
• scratching or pressing on your skin, such as wearing itchy or tight clothing;
• an infection; the international guideline notes that acute urticaria often follows an infection of the nose and throat, such as selsema;
• a problem with your immune system;
• water or sunlight, but this is rare.

Painkillers can matter. The international guideline says non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin, can cause hives, and can make existing chronic spontaneous urticaria worse in up to one in four people with it. It describes paracetamol as a safer option for these patients. If you need a painkiller, ask a pharmacist which one suits you.

The AAD says your risk of hives is higher if you have atopic dermatitis (ekzema) or smoke. Even so, the cause of hives often remains a mystery: the AAD says many people never find what triggers theirs, and treatment can still control it.

Kenapa gegata waktu malam?

Gegata waktu malam (hives at night) is a common complaint. In a study of 124 adults with chronic spontaneous urticaria in India, 29% had itching mainly at night, and night-time itch was linked to more severe itching and disturbed sleep. A 2026 systematic review found that sleep problems were consistently more common in people with chronic hives than in people without them.

No single reason explains night-time hives, but several known triggers are common in the evening:

• Hot showers or baths: the AAD says hot water can irritate the skin, so take warm, not hot, showers.
• Heat and sweat: a warm bedroom or thick blanket can make skin hot and sweaty.
• Pressure and tight clothing: bra straps, waistbands and tight sleepwear press on the skin.
• Scratching: the AAD says scratching and rubbing can trigger more hives.
• Medicines taken in the evening, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, in people whose hives are made worse by NSAIDs.

If the itch is mostly at night and also affects family members, think of kudis buta (scabies). If you wake with new bites on your face, neck or arms, check your mattress and bed frame for signs of bedbugs. If itching keeps you awake, see our guide to susah tidur and talk to a doctor about treatment.

Gegata kronik: hives lasting more than 6 weeks

Hives that keep appearing for more than 6 weeks are called chronic urticaria. When there is no clear trigger, it is called chronic spontaneous urticaria. DermNet reports that it affects about 0.5% to 1% of people at any one time and most often starts between the ages of 20 and 40. The AAD says women are twice as likely as men to develop it.

Malaysian studies show how much it can affect daily life:

• In a Malaysian study of 115 adults with chronic spontaneous urticaria, 60.9% had moderate to severe disease, 26.1% had symptoms of depression, 54.8% had anxiety and 40.0% had stress. Severe disease was linked to depression and poorer quality of life (see our guide to kemurungan).
• In a study of 59 adults at a Malaysian hospital dermatology department, 41% tested positive on the autologous serum skin test, a sign that the immune system may be driving the hives. These patients had more active disease, and women were more likely to test positive.

The AAD says most people who have hives are otherwise healthy. The international guideline recommends only a few basic blood tests at first, with more tests based on your history. These may include tests for infections and for thyroid problems; DermNet lists thyroid disease among conditions associated with chronic spontaneous urticaria (see our guide to tiroid). The guideline also notes that chronic hives can go away on their own at any time, so doctors review treatment every 3 to 6 months.

Petua hilangkan gegata at home

The AAD recommends these tips to relieve the itch until hives clear:

• Use a cool compress: wet a clean cloth with cold water, wring it out and hold it on the itchy skin for 10 to 20 minutes.
• Try not to scratch or rub, as this can trigger more hives. Keep your nails short.
• Take warm, not hot, showers, and apply soap gently with your hands rather than a sponge or loofah.
• Use gentle, fragrance-free soap and skin care. The AAD notes that products labelled unscented may still contain masking fragrance.
• Wear loose-fitting, 100% cotton clothing, which is helpful in Malaysia's heat.
• Use an anti-itch lotion, such as one containing menthol or calamine, following the directions.

Keep a hives diary. If hives last more than a few days or keep coming back, the AAD suggests noting when they start, what you were doing, what you ate and drank, any medicines (including aspirin or ibuprofen), whether you were hot or sweaty, what you were wearing, whether you were stressed, and any recent illness. Photos of the rash also help, because hives may have faded by the time you see a doctor.

Ubat gegata: antihistamines and other treatment

According to the NHS, a pharmacist can advise you on an antihistamine for hives. Tell the pharmacist if you have a long-term condition, as antihistamines may not suit everyone, and they may not be suitable for young children. A doctor may prescribe menthol cream, antihistamines or steroid tablets.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. The NHS says loratadine is usually recommended if you need an antihistamine in pregnancy, and loratadine or cetirizine are usually OK while breastfeeding. The international guideline advises avoiding older drowsy antihistamines in pregnancy.

Antihistamines are also used for hay fever and resdung. If hives do not go away with treatment, the NHS says you may be referred to a skin specialist (dermatologist).

Gegata pantang makan apa?

Many people look for a list of foods to avoid (pantang makan) with gegata. The evidence suggests a more targeted approach:

• Acute hives after a food: if hives appear soon after a particular food, avoid it and tell your doctor. The AAD says hives from foods such as peanuts and other nuts, eggs and shellfish typically appear within 1 hour of eating.
• Additives: colourings and preservatives in food, supplements, spices, cosmetics or toothpaste can trigger hives, usually within 12 to 24 hours, according to the AAD.
• Chronic hives: the international guideline says a true food allergy is extremely rarely the cause of chronic spontaneous urticaria. Special low-pseudoallergen or low-histamine diets may be tried in selected patients, but the evidence is controversial, so do this only with a doctor's advice.
• Spicy food: the NHS lists eating spicy food among triggers that make skin hot and sweaty. If sambal or curry seems to set off your hives, note it in your diary.

Because food is rarely the cause of chronic hives, use your diary to look for a pattern before cutting out foods.

Bila gegata bahaya: when to get help

Call 999 or go to the emergency department immediately if hives come with any of these signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), according to the NHS:

• the lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen;
• breathing very fast or struggling to breathe, wheezing, or feeling like you are choking;
• the throat feels tight or you are struggling to swallow;
• skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale;
• sudden confusion, drowsiness or dizziness, or someone faints and cannot be woken up.

See a doctor soon if:

• hives do not improve after 2 days;
• the rash is spreading;
• hives keep coming back (you may be allergic to something);
• you also have a high temperature and feel unwell;
• you also have swelling under the skin, which may be angioedema;
• you are worried about your child's hives.

The AAD also recommends seeing a dermatologist if hives last longer than 6 weeks or cover a large area of your body.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Apa punca gegata (what causes hives)?

According to the NHS, hives appear when something causes high levels of histamine and other chemicals to be released in the skin. Triggers include certain foods, medicines, insect bites or stings, contact with plants, animals, chemicals or latex, heat and sweat from exercise, stress or spicy food, cold, pressure or scratching, and infections. In many people with long-lasting hives, no single cause is found.

What is gegata in English?

Gegata is called hives in English, and the medical name is urticaria (urtikaria in Malay). It is also known as biduran. Hives are raised, itchy bumps or patches that can appear anywhere on the body. Each spot usually fades within 24 hours, although new ones can appear.

Kenapa gegata datang waktu malam (why are hives worse at night)?

Many people notice hives or itching more at night. In a study of 124 adults with chronic hives, 29% had itching mainly at night. Some known triggers are common in the evening, such as hot showers, heat and sweat, tight clothing and scratching. Staying cool, taking warm rather than hot showers and asking a doctor about a daily non-drowsy antihistamine can help.

Petua hilangkan gegata: what helps at home?

Dermatologists advise a cool, damp cloth on the itchy skin for 10 to 20 minutes, warm (not hot) showers, loose cotton clothing, fragrance-free soap and not scratching, because scratching can trigger more hives. A pharmacist can advise on an antihistamine. If hives come back often, keep a diary of foods, medicines and activities to help find a trigger.

Ubat gegata di farmasi: which medicine helps?

A pharmacist can advise on antihistamine tablets. The NHS lists non-drowsy types such as cetirizine, fexofenadine and loratadine. The international urticaria guideline recommends non-drowsy antihistamines as the first treatment and advises against older drowsy antihistamines for routine use in chronic hives. Tell the pharmacist if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a long-term condition or take other medicines.

Gegata pantang makan apa (what foods should I avoid)?

Only avoid foods that you have linked to your hives. Hives from a food allergy, such as peanuts, eggs or shellfish, usually appear within about an hour of eating. For hives that last more than 6 weeks, the international guideline says food allergy is very rarely the cause, so cutting out many foods is not usually needed. Talk to a doctor before trying a special diet.

Gegata berapa lama hilang (how long do hives last)?

Most cases clear on their own within a few days to a few weeks, and each spot usually fades within 24 hours. Hives that keep appearing for more than 6 weeks are called chronic urticaria. See a doctor if hives do not improve after 2 days, keep spreading or coming back, or come with swelling or feeling unwell. Call 999 if there is swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or pharmacist. Health supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

References

• Hives — NHS
• Angioedema — NHS
• Antihistamines — NHS
• Bedbugs — NHS
• Scabies — NHS
• Heat rash (prickly heat) — NHS
• Atopic eczema — NHS
• Hives: Signs and symptoms — American Academy of Dermatology
• Hives: Who gets and causes — American Academy of Dermatology
• Hives: Diagnosis and treatment — American Academy of Dermatology
• How to relieve hives at home — American Academy of Dermatology
• Chronic hives: How dermatologists help people get relief — American Academy of Dermatology
• Urticaria: an overview — DermNet
• Chronic spontaneous urticaria — DermNet
• Zuberbier T, et al. The International Guideline for the Definition, Classification, Diagnosis and Management of Urticaria. Allergy. 2026;81(8):2582-2632
• Yong SS, et al. Psychological well-being, quality of life and patient satisfaction among adults with chronic spontaneous urticaria in a multi-ethnic Asian population. Psychol Health Med. 2023;28(2):324-335
• Lai FY, Sarkan MM. Autologous serum skin test in chronic spontaneous urticaria: evaluation of the relationship with disease activity and autoimmune antibodies. Med J Malaysia. 2025;80(5):575-581
• Shukla P, et al. Association of pruritus with sleep in patients with psoriasis and chronic spontaneous urticaria: a cross-sectional study. J Family Med Prim Care. 2023;12(9):1908-1916
• Kherallah K, et al. The impact of chronic spontaneous urticaria on sleep: a systematic review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2026;16(8):3861-3904

Ovarian cancer (kanser ovari) is the fifth most common cancer in Malaysian women, and more than half of cases with a recorded stage are found late, at stage 3 or 4. Its early signs are easy to miss: bloating, tummy or pelvic pain, feeling full quickly and needing to pee more often. These are usually caused by something less serious, but if they happen frequently (the NHS says roughly 12 or more times a month), see a doctor. A pap smear does not check for ovarian cancer, and finding it early can make it more treatable.

Apa itu kanser ovari?

According to the NHS, ovarian cancer affects the ovaries, the 2 small organs that store eggs and produce female hormones. It mostly affects women over 50, but can affect anyone with ovaries. You can still get it after your ovaries have been removed, because it can also start in the fallopian tubes or the lining inside the tummy (peritoneum); these cancers are often grouped together and treated the same way.

According to Cancer Research UK, there are several types:

• Epithelial ovarian cancer, which starts in the cells covering the ovary, is the most common type. Fallopian tube cancer and primary peritoneal cancer are counted as types of epithelial ovarian cancer.
• Germ cell tumours start in the cells that develop into eggs. They are rare and usually affect people up to their early 30s.
• Stromal tumours, such as granulosa cell tumours, are also rare.
• Borderline tumours are not cancer and are usually cured with surgery.

Most ovarian cysts are not cancer; see our guide to cyst ovari.

Kanser ovari di Malaysia

According to the Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report 2017-2021 from the Ministry of Health:

• 4,714 cases of ovarian cancer were registered in 2017 to 2021, compared with 3,575 in 2012 to 2016;
• it was the fifth most common cancer in women (after breast, colorectal, lung and womb cancer) and the tenth most common overall;
• the lifetime risk was 1 in 143, the same for Malay, Chinese and Indian women (1 in 200 for Other Bumiputera);
• it was most common at age 65 to 69;
• 54.1% of cases with a recorded stage were found at a late stage (stage 3 or 4).

Source: Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report 2017-2021, tables of the ten most common cancers by ethnicity.

Tanda dan simptom kanser ovari

The NHS says the symptoms of ovarian cancer are not always obvious. Symptoms include frequently (roughly 12 or more times a month) having:

• a swollen tummy or feeling bloated;
• pain or tenderness in your tummy or the area between your hips (pelvic pain);
• no appetite or feeling full quickly after eating;
• an urgent need to pee or needing to pee more often.

Other symptoms can include indigestion, constipation or diarrhoea, back pain, feeling tired all the time, losing weight without trying, and unusual vaginal bleeding, including between periods, heavier periods or bleeding after the menopause.

These symptoms are very common and can be caused by many different conditions, according to the NHS. What matters is if they are new for you, keep happening or are getting worse. For other causes, see our guides to perut kembung and kerap kencing.

Punca dan faktor risiko

According to the NHS, the risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, and you may have a higher chance of getting it if you:

• have inherited a faulty gene, such as the BRCA genes or those linked to Lynch syndrome;
• have had breast cancer or bowel cancer;
• have had radiotherapy for a previous cancer;
• have endometriosis or diabetes;
• started your periods young, went through the menopause late (over 55), or have not had a baby, as these may mean you have ovulated more;
• have never used hormonal contraception, such as the pill or an implant;
• are taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT); Cancer Research UK says the increase in risk is small;
• are overweight;
• smoke.

Cancer Research UK says some things lower the risk: taking the combined contraceptive pill (the longer you take it, the lower the risk), having children, and breastfeeding. You cannot always prevent ovarian cancer, but the NHS advises not smoking and keeping a healthy weight.

BRCA and family history

Sometimes ovarian cancer runs in families. Cancer Research UK says having a first-degree relative (mother, sister or daughter) with ovarian cancer increases the risk, and faulty genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 make it more likely, although not certain.

This matters in Malaysia. In the MaGiC study of 790 women with ovarian cancer at 23 hospitals in Malaysia, 13.5% had a harmful change in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, and about 80% of patients chose genetic testing when it was offered through their cancer doctor. Knowing a woman carries a BRCA change can help guide her treatment and help her relatives understand their own risk.

The NHS advises talking to a doctor if ovarian cancer runs in your family, as you may be referred to a specialist for genetic testing.

Is there a screening test? (pap smear and CA125)

A pap smear does not test for ovarian cancer. According to the NHS, cervical screening is a test to check the health of the cervix and help prevent cervical cancer; see our guide to the pap smear and HPV test.

Cancer Research UK says there is no national screening programme for ovarian cancer in the UK because there is no test that reliably picks it up early. A large UK trial found that ultrasound scans did not find cancers earlier or save lives; the CA125 blood test found some cancers earlier, but this did not save lives. CA125 and ultrasound are still important for diagnosing ovarian cancer in women who have symptoms.

How ovarian cancer is diagnosed

According to the NHS, if a doctor thinks you may have ovarian cancer you will usually have:

• a blood test for a protein called CA125, which is sometimes linked to ovarian cancer;
• an ultrasound scan, either inside the vagina (transvaginal) or over the tummy, to look for changes in the ovaries.

The NHS says that if your CA125 level is high, you will have an ultrasound scan, and other tests will then be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Sometimes the ovaries are too small to show on a scan, especially after the menopause, and if the scan is normal the doctor should look for other causes of your symptoms. To confirm the diagnosis, a specialist may arrange a CT scan, a needle biopsy of cells or fluid, a laparoscopy (a camera through a small cut in the tummy) or surgery.

Tahap kanser ovari (stage 1 to 4)

The stage describes how far the cancer has spread. According to Cancer Research UK, which uses the FIGO system, there are four stages. The table also shows 5-year survival for women diagnosed in England in 2016 to 2020; figures in Malaysia may differ, and no one can predict an individual’s outcome.

This is why early diagnosis matters: the NHS says ovarian cancer is often diagnosed late, but finding it early can mean it is more treatable. Because the symptoms are not always obvious, do not wait for them to become severe before seeing a doctor.

Rawatan kanser ovari

According to the NHS, treatment depends on the size and type of cancer, where it is, whether it has spread and your general health. The main treatments are surgery and chemotherapy:

One targeted medicine, olaparib (a PARP inhibitor), is used for some women with BRCA-related ovarian cancer. A Malaysian cost-effectiveness analysis estimated that it adds years of life compared with routine monitoring, but found that at current prices it was not cost-effective for the public sector, so access can depend on cost.

Treatment can affect periods and fertility in younger women; the NHS says there may be options to preserve fertility that your specialist team can advise on. If ovarian cancer is advanced, it might be very hard to treat and it may not be possible to cure it; treatment then aims to limit the cancer and its symptoms and help you live longer.

When to see a doctor

According to the NHS, see a doctor if:

• you have any symptoms of ovarian cancer, such as frequent bloating, tummy or pelvic pain, feeling full quickly or needing to pee more often;
• you have seen a doctor before, but your symptoms have not gone away, are worse or more frequent;
• you have vaginal bleeding after the menopause.

It helps to tell your doctor how often the symptoms happen and whether anyone in your family has had ovarian, breast or bowel cancer. For bleeding after the menopause, see also our guides to kanser rahim and menopaus.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Apa tanda awal kanser ovari (early signs of ovarian cancer)?

According to the NHS, the main symptoms are frequently (roughly 12 or more times a month) having a swollen tummy or feeling bloated, pain in your tummy or pelvis, no appetite or feeling full quickly after eating, and an urgent need to pee or needing to pee more often. These symptoms are very common and usually caused by something else, but see a doctor if they keep happening.

Apa punca kanser ovari (what causes ovarian cancer)?

The exact cause is not always known, but the NHS lists factors that raise the risk: getting older, inheriting a faulty gene such as BRCA or one linked to Lynch syndrome, having had breast or bowel cancer, endometriosis, diabetes, starting periods young or a late menopause, not having had a baby, never using hormonal contraception, taking HRT, being overweight and smoking.

How common is ovarian cancer in Malaysia?

According to the Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report 2017-2021, 4,714 cases of ovarian cancer were registered from 2017 to 2021, making it the fifth most common cancer in Malaysian women. The lifetime risk was 1 in 143 for Malay, Chinese and Indian women, and 54.1% of cases with a recorded stage were found at a late stage (stage 3 or 4).

Can a pap smear detect ovarian cancer?

No. A pap smear (cervical screening) checks the health of the cervix and helps prevent cervical cancer, according to the NHS; it does not check the ovaries. Cancer Research UK says there is no test that reliably picks up ovarian cancer early in women without symptoms, so it is important to know the symptoms and see a doctor if they keep happening.

Can young women get ovarian cancer?

Yes, although it is less common. The NHS says ovarian cancer mostly affects women over 50. Some rarer types, such as germ cell tumours, usually affect people up to their early 30s, according to Cancer Research UK. In Malaysia, the registry found ovarian cancer was most common at age 65 to 69, but cases were recorded in younger women too.

Kanser ovari tahap 4 boleh sembuh (can stage 4 ovarian cancer be cured)?

According to the NHS, more advanced ovarian cancer can be very hard to treat and it may not be possible to cure it. In that case, treatment aims to limit the cancer and its symptoms and help you live longer. Cancer Research UK data from England show around 15% of women diagnosed at stage 4 survive 5 years or more, compared with 95% at stage 1.

Does ovarian cancer run in families?

Sometimes. The NHS says inheriting a faulty gene such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 raises the risk, and advises talking to a doctor if ovarian cancer runs in your family, as you may be referred for genetic testing. In a Malaysian study of 790 women with ovarian cancer, 13.5% had a harmful change in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor. Health supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

References

• Ovarian cancer — NHS
• Symptoms of ovarian cancer — NHS
• Causes of ovarian cancer — NHS
• Tests and next steps for ovarian cancer — NHS
• Treatment for ovarian cancer — NHS
• Cervical screening — NHS
• Types of ovarian cancer — Cancer Research UK
• Risks and causes of ovarian cancer — Cancer Research UK
• Screening for ovarian cancer — Cancer Research UK
• Stages and grades of ovarian cancer — Cancer Research UK
• Survival for ovarian cancer — Cancer Research UK
• Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report 2017-2021 — National Cancer Institute, Ministry of Health Malaysia
• Yoon SY, et al. Oncologist-led BRCA counselling improves access to cancer genetic testing in middle-income Asian country, with no significant impact on psychosocial outcomes. J Med Genet. 2022;59(3):220-229
• Yong CM, et al. Cost-effectiveness analysis of olaparib maintenance therapy for BRCA mutation ovarian cancer in the public sector in Malaysia. PLoS One. 2024;19(2):e0298130