What are hives and how do they manifest on the body. How can you identify hives and distinguish them from other skin conditions. What causes hives and what are the most effective treatments available. How long do hives typically last and when should you seek medical attention. What lifestyle changes can help prevent or manage hives outbreaks.

What Are Hives and How Do They Affect the Body?

Hives, medically known as urticaria, are a common skin condition characterized by raised, itchy welts that can appear suddenly on any part of the body. These welts, also called wheals, can vary in size and shape, ranging from small spots to large patches that may join together to form even larger areas of affected skin.

The appearance of hives on the trunk of the body is particularly common. This area, which includes the chest, abdomen, and back, provides a large surface for hives to manifest. However, it’s important to note that hives can occur anywhere on the skin, including the face, arms, legs, and even inside the mouth or throat in severe cases.

Key Characteristics of Hives

• Raised, red or skin-colored welts
• Intense itching or burning sensation
• Swelling of the affected area
• Tendency to change shape or move around the body
• Can appear and disappear rapidly, often within hours

How do hives differ from other skin conditions? Hives are distinct in their rapid onset and ability to change location quickly. Unlike rashes that tend to stay in one place, hives can fade in one area and reappear in another within a short period. This transient nature is a key identifying feature of hives.

Common Causes and Triggers of Hives

Understanding the causes of hives is crucial for both prevention and treatment. Hives are essentially an allergic reaction, occurring when the body releases histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream in response to a perceived threat. This release causes small blood vessels to leak, leading to swelling in the skin.

What are the most common triggers for hives? Here’s a comprehensive list:

1. Foods: Common culprits include nuts, shellfish, eggs, and certain fruits
2. Medications: Antibiotics, aspirin, and ibuprofen are frequent offenders
3. Insect bites or stings
4. Environmental factors: Pollen, pet dander, or latex
5. Physical stimuli: Pressure, cold, heat, or sunlight
6. Stress or emotional upset
7. Infections: Viral infections can sometimes trigger hives
8. Exercise: In rare cases, physical exertion can cause hives

Can hives be a sign of a more serious condition? While most cases of hives are benign and resolve on their own, they can occasionally be a symptom of a more severe allergic reaction or an underlying health issue. If hives are accompanied by difficulty breathing, dizziness, or swelling of the throat, it could indicate anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.

Diagnosing Hives: When to Seek Medical Help

Diagnosing hives is typically straightforward due to their distinctive appearance. However, in some cases, particularly when hives are chronic or recurrent, further investigation may be necessary to identify the underlying cause.

When Should You Consult a Doctor?

• If hives persist for more than six weeks
• If you experience frequent recurrences
• If hives are accompanied by other symptoms like fever or joint pain
• If over-the-counter treatments are ineffective
• If hives cause significant discomfort or interfere with daily activities

How do doctors diagnose hives? Diagnosis usually begins with a physical examination and a review of your medical history. Your doctor may ask about recent exposures to potential allergens, new medications, or changes in diet. In some cases, additional tests may be recommended:

• Blood tests to check for underlying conditions or infections
• Allergy tests to identify specific triggers
• Skin biopsy in rare cases to rule out other skin conditions

Effective Treatments for Hives: From Home Remedies to Medical Interventions

The treatment of hives aims to relieve symptoms and prevent future outbreaks. The approach can vary depending on the severity and duration of the condition.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

What are the most effective over-the-counter treatments for hives? Antihistamines are the first line of defense against hives. They work by blocking the effects of histamine in the body, thereby reducing itching and swelling. Common options include:

• Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Loratadine (Claritin)
• Fexofenadine (Allegra)
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) – Note that this can cause drowsiness

Prescription Medications

For more severe or chronic cases of hives, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications:

• Higher-dose antihistamines
• Oral corticosteroids for short-term use in severe cases
• Omalizumab, an injectable medication for chronic hives
• Cyclosporine or other immunosuppressants in resistant cases

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes

Can lifestyle modifications help manage hives? Absolutely. Here are some strategies that can provide relief and prevent future outbreaks:

• Apply cool compresses to affected areas
• Take lukewarm baths with colloidal oatmeal
• Wear loose, breathable clothing
• Avoid known triggers
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or meditation
• Keep a diary to identify potential triggers

Understanding Chronic Hives: Causes and Management Strategies

While most cases of hives resolve within a few days or weeks, some individuals experience chronic hives, defined as outbreaks that persist for six weeks or longer. Chronic hives can significantly impact quality of life and may require long-term management strategies.

What causes chronic hives? In many cases, the exact cause of chronic hives remains unknown, a condition referred to as chronic idiopathic urticaria. However, potential underlying factors may include:

• Autoimmune disorders
• Chronic infections
• Hormonal imbalances
• Ongoing exposure to unidentified allergens
• Stress or psychological factors

How is chronic hives managed? Management of chronic hives often involves a combination of approaches:

1. Long-term use of antihistamines, often at higher doses
2. Addition of other medications like leukotriene modifiers or cyclosporine
3. Regular follow-ups with an allergist or dermatologist
4. Lifestyle modifications to minimize triggers
5. Psychological support to manage the stress associated with chronic conditions

Special Considerations: Hives in Children and Pregnant Women

Hives can affect people of all ages, but there are special considerations when it comes to children and pregnant women.

Hives in Children

Are hives in children different from those in adults? While the appearance and causes of hives are generally similar in children and adults, there are some important differences to consider:

• Children may have difficulty describing their symptoms
• Food allergies are a more common trigger in children
• Viral infections frequently cause hives in children
• Some medications used for adults may not be suitable for children

How should parents manage hives in children? It’s important to consult a pediatrician, especially if the hives are severe or recurrent. Keeping a diary of potential triggers and using child-appropriate antihistamines as directed by a doctor can be helpful.

Hives During Pregnancy

Can pregnancy cause hives? Pregnancy can indeed trigger hives in some women, particularly during the third trimester. This is thought to be due to the hormonal changes and increased blood volume associated with pregnancy.

How are hives treated during pregnancy? Treatment options may be limited due to safety concerns for the developing fetus. Always consult with an obstetrician before using any medications. Safe management strategies include:

• Using cool compresses
• Wearing loose, comfortable clothing
• Avoiding known triggers
• Using pregnancy-safe antihistamines if recommended by a doctor

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing the Risk of Hives Outbreaks

While it’s not always possible to prevent hives, especially if the trigger is unknown, there are several strategies that can help minimize the risk of outbreaks.

Identifying and Avoiding Triggers

How can you identify your hives triggers? Keeping a detailed diary can be incredibly helpful. Record what you eat, any new products you use, and your activities each day, along with any hives outbreaks. Over time, patterns may emerge that can help you identify your specific triggers.

Once triggers are identified, avoidance is key. This might involve:

• Eliminating certain foods from your diet
• Changing personal care products
• Modifying your environment to reduce exposure to allergens
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques or lifestyle changes

Strengthening Your Immune System

Can a strong immune system help prevent hives? While a healthy immune system won’t prevent all cases of hives, it can help your body better handle potential triggers. Consider these immune-boosting strategies:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Get regular exercise
• Ensure adequate sleep
• Stay hydrated
• Manage stress effectively
• Consider probiotic supplements to support gut health

Regular Check-ups and Allergy Testing

For individuals prone to hives, regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can be beneficial. Your doctor can monitor your condition, adjust treatments as needed, and recommend allergy testing if appropriate. Allergy tests can help identify specific triggers, allowing for more targeted prevention strategies.

Living with Hives: Coping Strategies and Support

Living with hives, especially chronic hives, can be challenging both physically and emotionally. However, there are several strategies that can help individuals cope effectively and maintain a good quality of life.

Managing the Physical Symptoms

How can you alleviate the discomfort of hives? Beyond medication, consider these strategies:

• Use calming lotions or creams to soothe itchy skin
• Practice good skin care, keeping skin moisturized and avoiding harsh soaps
• Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to reduce stress-induced itching
• Use cold packs or take cool showers to relieve itching and burning sensations

Emotional and Psychological Support

The unpredictable nature of hives can lead to anxiety, stress, and even depression in some individuals. It’s important to address these emotional aspects:

• Consider joining a support group for individuals with chronic skin conditions
• Practice stress-management techniques like mindfulness or yoga
• Seek professional counseling if hives are significantly impacting your mental health
• Educate friends and family about your condition to build a supportive network

Lifestyle Adaptations

Making certain lifestyle changes can help manage hives and improve overall well-being:

• Choose clothing made from natural, breathable fabrics
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule to support your immune system
• Consider keeping antihistamines with you for unexpected outbreaks
• Plan ahead for travel or other situations where your routine might be disrupted

By implementing these strategies and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals with hives can effectively manage their condition and maintain a high quality of life. Remember, while hives can be frustrating and uncomfortable, they are manageable with the right approach and support.

Hives: Signs and symptoms

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Breaking Out in Hives for No Apparent Reason

Sometimes the source of the raised, red, and itchy bumps on your skin can be a mystery.

One reason hives can be so surprising is that they can be caused by many things you might not expect including stress and exercise. Most of these unexpected causes for hives aren’t serious, but some are a sign it’s a good idea to make a medical appointment.

Read on for more information about reasons you may have hives.

Hives are an itchy reaction on your skin. They happen when a chemical called histamine is released in your body.

They can appear anywhere on your body and can be tiny pinprick-sized bumps or large raised areas that cover an entire limb. Hives often appear red or pink on white or light skin. People with darker skin might have hives that are slightly lighter or slightly darker than the skin surrounding them.

Share on PinterestHives on dark skin.
Created by Samuel Freire da Silva, M.D. in homage to The Master And Professor Delso Bringel Calheiros. Image obtained from Dermatology Atlas

No matter the color of your hives rash, all hives share these qualities:

• raised
• itchy
• tender
• round, oval, or uneven shaped
• clearly defined border

Hives are also called urticaria. Sometimes, the cause of hives is obvious. For instance, you might have an immediate reaction to something you’re allergic to such as pollen or pet dander. However, the cause isn’t always clear. Hives can be sudden and surprising and seem to not have a cause.

Hives are a very common skin reaction that can come from some unexpected sources. Some causes you might not have thought of include:

• Colds and other viral infections. Sometimes hives can be caused by your immune system fighting colds and other viral infections. These hives often appear near the end of your cold or virus as you’re starting to feel better. They’re most common in children but can happen to anyone.

• Bacterial infections. Bacterial infections such as strep throat or urinary tract infections can also sometimes trigger hives as your body reacts to the bacteria. These hives will fade as the antibiotics help your body fight the infection. They might peel before healing completely.

• Chronic conditions such as lupus. Hives that last for longer than 6 weeks might be a sign of an autoimmune condition such as lupus, type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease, or rheumatoid arthritis. These hives won’t go away on their own. It’s a good idea to make a medical appointment to get this type of hive checked out and see if a chronic condition is the cause.

• Stress. Stress can raise your internal body temperature and release adrenalin and other chemicals that might trigger hives. Stress hives tend to be located on the face, neck, chest, and arms. They’re common in people with eczema, allergies, or sensitive skin.

• Temperature changes. Suddenly encountering hot or cold, such as stepping into a steamy shower or entering a swimming pool, can cause histamine to release and hives to form. Hives that form in response to temperature are called cold urticaria. A red and itchy area of skin often forms around these hives.

• Tight clothing. Tight clothing can cause friction that leads to irritation and to hives. Clothes that sit close to your skin can also push any bacteria on your skin surface into your pores and hair follicles.

• Exercise. A chemical called acetylcholine is released in your body when you exercise can affect your skin cells and cause irritation and hives. Exercise hives are known as exercise-induced urticaria. Some people have additional symptoms along with hives such as shortness of breath, headache, flushing, and stomach cramps.

• Inflammation of blood vessels. An inflammation of your blood vessels known as vasculitis can cause painful hives. They can leave a bruise on your skin and last for several days. Vasculitis is a serious medical condition that requires treatment by a medical professional.

• Medications. Some medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and opioids can cause an allergic reaction that leads to hives. Hives following medication might be the first sign of a medical emergency called anaphylaxis. Other symptoms of anaphylaxis include shortness of breath, wheezing, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.

Seeking emergency medical care

Hives can be a sign of anaphylaxis. This is always a medical emergency that needs immediate care. If you have been prescribed an EpiPen for an allergy, use it.

Call 911, especially if you’re having trouble breathing. If you don’t have an EpiPen, the ambulance will have epinephrine that paramedics can use to provide immediate treatment and will likely reach you much faster than having someone drive you to a hospital. Paramedics can get you to the hospital quickly and monitor your condition the entire time.

Never attempt to drive yourself to the hospital during anaphylaxis. Even if it is a very short drive, it’s not safe to attempt. You can lose consciousness rapidly.

If possible, after you call 911, keep someone with you until paramedics arrive.

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Hives are often caused by identifiable allergies. Avoiding these allergens can help you avoid breaking out in hives. Common hive triggers include:

• shellfish
• eggs
• peanuts
• milk
• berries
• citrus
• animal dander
• poison ivy and other plants
• latex
• wool, polyester, and other fabrics
• pollen
• grass
• insect stings or bites
• dust mites
• mold
• detergents and dyes

Hives can be a sign of a serious allergic reaction that needs emergency medical emergency attention. It’s important to take action if you hives along with any of these symptoms:

• wheezing
• tightness in your chest or throat
• trouble breathing
• trouble talking
• swelling in your throat, face, or tongue
• nausea
• lightheadedness

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911.

A doctor may prescribe you an epinephrine injector, such as an EpiPen, for future allergic reactions. They’ll teach you how to use it and answer any questions you might have. You’ll keep your epinephrine injector on hand and use it if you develop hives in the future.

You’ll still need to visit the emergency room after you use your epinephrine injector, but it can stop anaphylaxis from becoming deadly.

A doctor can diagnose hives and help you find the cause. They might recommend you keep a food diary to find out if there is any link between food and your hives.

You might be sent to an allergist, a doctor who specializes in treating allergies, for additional testing. This might include blood work and urine tests to look for chemicals in your body that might tell the allergists what’s causing your hives.

You might also have a skin biopsy, especially if your allergist suspects vasculitis causing your hives. Hives that have lasted for longer than 6 weeks will likely necessitate testing for underlying chronic conditions.

Sometimes, a specific cause isn’t found. In this case, your hives will be diagnosed as idiopathic urticaria. The word “idiopathic” means unknown. In this case, your doctor will still be able to help you with a treatment plan, but you won’t be able to tell what to avoid to prevent hives in the future.

Treatment for hives will depend on the severity of your hives and on the cause. For instance, you’ll need to avoid the cause of your hives if it has been found.

Your doctor will work with you to find the right treatment for you. Common options include:

• Antihistamines. Both over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines block histamine and can treat hives. You might find that certain antihistamines are more effective for you than others. Sometimes a combination of antihistamines is recommended.
• Anti-itch lotions. Lotions to calm down itching and redness can provide relief from hives and prevent scratching.
• Antibiotics. Hives that are linked to bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics
• Corticosteroids. Corticosteroids can be taken on a short-term basis to help with severe cases of hives.

Read more about hives treatment options.

Hives can sometimes be surprising and have no obvious cause. There are actually a wide variety of things that can cause hives, including stress, colds, exercise, and temperature changes. Chronic hives can point to an underlying condition such as lupus.

An allergist can help you determine the cause of your hives and start treatment.

Urticaria – diagnosis and treatment at the medical center “Andreev Hospitals”

Urticaria – is a classic form of allergy and manifests itself in the form of profuse rashes in the form of blisters on almost all areas of the skin. The blisters can be from millimeters to 10 cm in size, usually pink or red. Allergic rash most often appears on the trunk, limbs, rarely – on the palms and soles of the feet and is accompanied by severe itching. The disease can be either single or recurrent; while sometimes you can simultaneously observe both fresh rashes and residual effects .

Urticaria is an allergic skin disease that manifests itself in the form of rashes similar to nettle burns.

Urticaria affects more than 19% of the population periodically. This disease causes certain inconveniences in the form of red blisters and constant itching. But it usually goes away after 36 hours.

Causes of urticaria

Causes of urticaria can be different: allergies to food, insect bites, stressful situations, taking certain medications, as well as the consequences of infection with helminths. Sometimes hives are the body’s reaction to dust, pollen, hot or cold weather, or prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light. If the urticaria is a consequence of these causes, it is called chronic. In this case, a thorough examination is necessary in order to prevent diseases of the internal organs, the presence of infection in the body. If the urticaria occurs for unknown reasons, it is called idiopathic.

Symptoms of urticaria

Urticaria usually appears unexpectedly. The first signs are severe itching and burning, as well as the appearance of blisters of various shapes and sizes on any part of the skin, even on the mucous membrane of the mouth and larynx. If you do not take any medication, the general condition of a person may worsen. There is a risk of urticaria, arthralgia.

Diagnosis of urticaria

Chronic urticaria is diagnosed by an allergist using provocative tests after a diet that excludes suspected allergens. To detect a reaction to dust or pollen, skin and radioallergosorbent tests are used. With idiopathic urticaria, a more extensive examination is prescribed: a skin biopsy is performed, a blood test is taken for ESR, a urine test, etc.

Treatment of urticaria

The best solution for treatment remains the identification and exclusion of the allergen. Traditionally, urticaria is treated with antiallergic or antihistamine drugs. If the rash does not go away, but becomes larger and poses a threat to life, it is necessary to consult an allergist. In this situation, emergency measures are taken: glucocorticoids are administered in large doses.

Prevention of urticaria

To prevent urticaria, it is necessary to follow a diet, exclude external factors that cause allergies, timely examine the body for the presence of chronic diseases and infections, and also prevent neuropsychological disorders.

If the disease is caused by eating foods, you need to review your diet. Dairy products, chocolate, smoked meats, as well as citrus fruits, eggs, berries, spices, and alcohol should be abandoned.

If you are allergic to ultraviolet light, you should protect exposed areas of the body from sunlight as much as possible. If there is a reaction to the cold, it is necessary to wear warmer clothes and shoes, as well as wear gloves.

It is not uncommon for urticaria to occur with the use of certain medications. In this situation, it is necessary to consult the attending physician, who will cancel the drugs and offer alternative ones. If the allergy arose against the background of a stressful situation, it is necessary to take sedatives and sedatives.

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Urticaria, symptoms and treatment of urticaria in adults and children in Podolsk

Urticaria is an allergic rash that occurs with dermatitis and other skin diseases. Synonyms for urticaria are the terms urticaria and urticaria.

It’s more of a symptom than an independent disease. It can be a manifestation of bronchial asthma, allergic shock or some kind of autoimmune disease.

It is extremely rare that this is an independent allergic reaction. Every third person experienced hives at least once, and 15% suffered it twice.

Urticaria is twice as common in adult women as in men. The cause may be hormonal disorders in the female body:

• pregnancy;
• menopause;
• menstrual cycle;
• taking oral contraceptives.

For any person, the following factors can serve as the cause of chronic urticaria:

• disorders of the immune system;
• infectious diseases;
• dermatitis;
• foodstuffs;
• diabetes mellitus;
• physical factors;
• gastritis;
• hepatitis;
• herpes;
• leukemia.

There are acute and chronic urticaria. Chronic form of urticaria, when symptoms persist for more than a month and a half. Moreover, there is a permanent and recurrent form of the disease: either the blisters never disappear, or they occur periodically.

There are several common types of hives:

1. Food is the body’s response to some food. Often it occurs in infants with the introduction of complementary foods, in older children it is less common, and in adults it appears against the background of diseases of the digestive system. Most Common Food Allergens:

• whole cow’s milk;
• chocolate, cocoa;
• chicken eggs;
• honey and bee products;
• citrus fruits;
• nuts;
• fruits, berries, red vegetables (apples, strawberries, tomatoes and bell peppers).

Some foods help to bring out the disease, although they do not provoke it themselves: coffee, alcohol, spicy or spicy foods, preservatives and flavor enhancers.

2. Solar – exposed to direct rays. A rash occurs on uncovered areas of the body, especially when applied to the skin of caring, cosmetic, medicinal products, and some types of perfume products with aromatic oils. These are external factors, and internal ones include drugs and toxic substances that are formed in the body in case of diseases of the kidneys, liver, and thyroid gland.
3. Cold – under the action of cold air or water.
4. Aquagenic – strong reaction to contact with water. Contact causes itching and may cause a rash.
5. Vibrating – as a result of working with equipment with strong vibration, such as a jackhammer.
6. Contact – when allergens come into contact with the skin: animal hair, plant pollen, dust.
7. Cholinergic – increase in body temperature from physical or emotional stress, hot or spicy food, baths or saunas. There are small pale blisters on the upper body.
8. Dermographic – with mechanical irritation: belt, rubbing buttons, tight clothing. With prolonged mechanical action, itching appears, and then blisters.

Urticaria in children

Up to 2-3 years, children have acute urticaria. Up to 13 years of age, children are prone to acute and chronic forms.