Hives Disease Information

About Hives

Rashes known as urticaria, are raised, itchy, red bumps that appear on the skin. They may differ in size and shape and can be very irritating. Allergies to certain foods, medications, or other substances can cause hives. They can also be caused by physical stimuli, such as heat, cold, pressure, or sunlight. Hives usually go away within a few hours, but can persist for days or weeks. Treatment for hives generally involves avoiding the allergen and taking antihistamines to decrease the itching and puffiness. In more serious cases, a physician may recommend a topical or oral steroid to reduce the inflammation. Ultraviolet light therapy may also be used to treat hives. Hives can be very uncomfortable and can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. If you have hives that last for more than a few days, or if the hives are accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or tongue, it is important to seek medical advice.

Types Of Hives

  1. Bumblebee Hives
  2. Honeybee Hives
  3. Top-Bar Hives
  4. Warre Hives
  5. Langstroth Hives
  6. Flow Hives
  7. Long Hives
  8. Skep Hives
  9. Eight-Frame Hives
  10. Top-Langstroth Hives

Symptoms Of Hives

  1. Itchy, raised, red welts on the skin
  2. Swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, throat, or other parts of the body
  3. Burning or stinging sensation on the skin
  4. Wheezing or difficulty breathing
  5. Abdominal cramps
  6. Nausea or vomiting
  7. Diarrhea
  8. Anaphylaxis (severe, life-threatening allergic reaction)

Diagnoses Of Hives

  1. Allergic response
  2. Contagion
  3. Anxiety
  4. Autoimmune affliction
  5. Contact with particular drugs or edibles
  6. Bug bites
  7. Contact with certain environmental elements such as cold or heat

What Hives Causes

Hives, otherwise known as urticaria, are red, itchy, swollen patches of skin that may appear in groups or separately. They can be as small as a few millimeters or as large as several inches and can last from a few minutes to a few weeks. Allergy to certain substances like food, medication, pollen, or pet dander is usually the cause of hives. They can also be caused by physical things such as heat, cold, or sun.

How Hives Is Treated

The severity of hives will determine what type of treatment is necessary. For mild cases, non-prescription antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or loratadine (Claritin) can be used to treat the issue at home. Additionally, cold compresses or oatmeal baths may help alleviate the itching. In more extreme cases, a doctor may need to prescribe oral corticosteroids or other medications to reduce swelling.

How To Live With Hives And Self-help

  1. Pinpoint the causes: Common causes of hives include certain foods, medications, pollen, and animal fur. Keeping a food log may help you locate any foods that could be causing your hives.
  2. Steer clear of known causes: After you have identified potential triggers, try to avoid them. This might mean avoiding certain foods, medications, or pets.
  3. Take antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines can help reduce itching and swelling. Consult with your doctor about which antihistamine is best for you.
  4. Apply cool compresses: Applying a cool compress to the affected areas can help reduce itching and swelling.
  5. Wear loose-fitting garments: Tight clothing can irritate the skin and make hives worse. Wear loose-fitting garments to help reduce irritation.
  6. Take a warm bath: Taking a warm bath with oatmeal or baking soda can help soothe itchy skin.
  7. Utilize relaxation techniques: Stress can worsen hives. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation to help reduce stress.
  8. Speak with your doctor: If your hives are severe or do not respond to self-care measures, talk to your doctor. Your doctor may prescribe more powerful medications or suggest other treatments.

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