What are the most effective over-the-counter treatments for hives. How can you find relief from itchy, red welts at home. When should you seek medical attention for hives.

Understanding Hives: Causes and Symptoms

Hives, medically known as urticaria, are red, itchy welts that appear on the skin as a reaction to various triggers. These raised bumps can vary in size and shape, often merging to form larger patches. While typically harmless, hives can be uncomfortable and sometimes indicate a more serious underlying condition.

Common Causes of Hives

• Allergic reactions to foods, medications, or environmental factors
• Physical stimuli such as pressure, cold, heat, or sunlight
• Stress or emotional upset
• Infections (viral or bacterial)
• Autoimmune disorders

Are certain individuals more prone to developing hives? Research suggests that people with a history of allergies or asthma may be more susceptible to hives. Additionally, women are more likely to experience chronic hives than men, though the reasons for this gender disparity are not fully understood.

Over-the-Counter Medications for Hive Relief

For many people experiencing hives, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can provide significant relief. These readily available treatments target the symptoms of hives, reducing itching and inflammation.

Antihistamines: The First Line of Defense

Can antihistamines effectively treat hives? In most cases, yes. Antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. This action helps to reduce itching, swelling, and redness associated with hives.

• Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Loratadine (Claritin)
• Fexofenadine (Allegra)
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

It’s important to note that while older antihistamines like diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness, newer generation antihistamines are less likely to have this side effect, making them suitable for daytime use.

Topical Treatments for Localized Relief

For localized hives outbreaks, topical treatments can provide targeted relief. These products work directly on the affected area to soothe itching and reduce inflammation.

• Calamine lotion
• Hydrocortisone cream (1%)
• Menthol or pramoxine-based anti-itch creams

Is it safe to use topical treatments on all types of hives? While generally safe, it’s important to avoid applying these products to broken skin or open wounds. For children or individuals with sensitive skin, consult a healthcare provider before using topical corticosteroids like hydrocortisone.

Natural Remedies and Home Treatments for Hives

In addition to OTC medications, several natural remedies and home treatments can help alleviate the discomfort of hives. These methods often focus on soothing the skin and reducing inflammation.

Cooling Therapies

Applying cold to hives-affected areas can provide immediate relief by constricting blood vessels and reducing inflammation. Consider these cooling methods:

• Cold compresses
• Ice packs (wrapped in a thin cloth)
• Cool baths or showers

How long should you apply cold therapy to hives? Limit cold applications to 10-15 minutes at a time to avoid skin damage. You can repeat this process several times a day as needed for relief.

Soothing Baths

Bathing in lukewarm water with added ingredients can help soothe itchy, inflamed skin. Consider these bath additives:

• Colloidal oatmeal
• Baking soda
• Epsom salts

Do soothing baths actually help with hives? Research has shown that oatmeal, in particular, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce itching and promote skin healing. Aim for a 15-20 minute soak for optimal benefits.

Lifestyle Adjustments to Manage Hives

Making certain lifestyle changes can help manage hives and prevent future outbreaks. These adjustments focus on avoiding triggers and creating a skin-friendly environment.

Clothing and Fabric Choices

The right clothing can make a significant difference in managing hives. Opt for:

• Loose-fitting clothes
• Breathable fabrics like cotton
• Smooth textures to avoid irritation

Should you avoid certain fabrics if you’re prone to hives? Yes, it’s best to steer clear of rough or scratchy materials like wool, as well as synthetic fabrics that don’t allow the skin to breathe properly.

Diet and Nutrition

While not all hives are caused by food allergies, dietary changes can sometimes help manage symptoms:

• Keep a food diary to identify potential triggers
• Increase intake of anti-inflammatory foods
• Stay hydrated to support overall skin health

Can certain foods help reduce hive outbreaks? Some studies suggest that foods rich in quercetin, such as apples, onions, and berries, may have antihistamine properties. However, more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness in managing hives.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Hives

While most cases of hives can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. Understanding these scenarios is crucial for ensuring proper treatment and avoiding potential complications.

Signs of a Severe Allergic Reaction

Hives can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Seek immediate medical care if you experience hives along with:

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Dizziness or fainting
• Rapid heartbeat

How quickly can anaphylaxis develop after hives appear? Anaphylaxis can occur within minutes of exposure to an allergen, but in some cases, it may take up to several hours. Always treat these symptoms as a medical emergency.

Persistent or Recurring Hives

If your hives persist for more than six weeks or frequently recur, it’s time to consult a healthcare provider. Chronic hives may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical evaluation and treatment.

What kind of doctor should you see for chronic hives? An allergist or dermatologist specializing in skin conditions is often best equipped to diagnose and treat persistent hives. They can perform tests to identify potential triggers and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

Advanced Treatments for Severe or Chronic Hives

When over-the-counter treatments and home remedies fail to provide adequate relief, healthcare providers may recommend more advanced treatment options for severe or chronic hives.

Prescription Medications

For difficult-to-treat hives, doctors may prescribe:

• Stronger antihistamines
• Oral corticosteroids
• Leukotriene modifiers
• Immune-suppressing drugs

Are there any new treatments available for chronic hives? Recent advancements include biologics like omalizumab, which targets specific antibodies involved in allergic reactions. These newer treatments can be particularly effective for patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria.

Allergy Testing and Immunotherapy

For hives caused by specific allergies, healthcare providers may recommend:

• Skin prick tests
• Blood tests for allergen-specific IgE antibodies
• Allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots)

Can immunotherapy cure hives permanently? While not a cure, immunotherapy can significantly reduce sensitivity to specific allergens over time, potentially decreasing the frequency and severity of hive outbreaks in some individuals.

Prevention Strategies for Recurring Hives

Preventing hive outbreaks is often easier than treating them. By identifying and avoiding triggers, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing hives.

Keeping a Hives Journal

Maintaining a detailed record of your hive outbreaks can help identify patterns and potential triggers. Include information such as:

• Date and time of outbreak
• Location on the body
• Severity of symptoms
• Recent foods, medications, or activities
• Environmental factors (temperature, stress levels, etc.)

How long should you keep a hives journal? Aim to maintain your journal for at least several weeks to a few months. This duration allows for the identification of both immediate and delayed triggers, as well as any cyclical patterns in your outbreaks.

Stress Management Techniques

Since stress can trigger or exacerbate hives in some individuals, incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine may help prevent outbreaks:

• Regular exercise
• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Deep breathing exercises
• Adequate sleep
• Time management strategies

Can reducing stress really help prevent hives? While stress reduction may not eliminate all hive outbreaks, many individuals report a decrease in frequency and severity of symptoms when they effectively manage their stress levels. The connection between stress and hives is complex, involving the interaction between the nervous system and immune responses.

By implementing a combination of treatment strategies, lifestyle adjustments, and prevention techniques, most people can effectively manage their hives and minimize their impact on daily life. Remember to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if you experience severe or chronic hives that don’t respond to over-the-counter treatments.

What to Do and When to See a Doctor

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Remedies and Treatments for Hives
• When to See a Doctor

Hives — also known as urticaria — are red, itchy bumps that show up on the skin to signal physical irritation. Hives are caused by:

• Allergic reaction
• Stress
• Infections

Each hive usually lasts for 24 hours. However, you may get new ones as older ones fade. A minor case of hives can last for a few days. An acute case of hives may persist for about six weeks. If the skin breakout lasts longer than that, it might be a case of chronic hives.

Most cases of hives go away on their own, but you can use home remedies to ease the sometimes uncomfortable symptoms.

Potential triggers for hives include common allergens like:

• Foods
• Insect bites
• Latex
• Medications
• Pet dander
• Pollen
• Plants

However, it’s not always easy to spot what could be causing a case of hives. You may be sensitive to less obvious triggers or may have an underlying infection that needs to be addressed. Hives can also develop because of the following:

• Exposure to extreme cold
• Exposure to extreme heat
• Exposure to too much sun
• Too much exercise
• Viral infections, especially mono and hepatitis
• Bacterial infections, especially UTI and strep throat
• Receiving a blood transfusion

Managing a case of hives can involve relying on home remedies and over-the-counter medication. You may also try making small lifestyle changes to lessen the instances of coming across a trigger that will make your skin erupt in hives. 

Over-the-Counter Oral Antihistamines

Cetirizine (Zyrtec), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and loratadine (Claritin), and ( are over-the-counter oral medications that can help reduce the uncomfortable itchiness and redness from hives.

Antihistamines work on histamine, which is released by mast cells — a certain type of immune system cell — in the presence of an allergen or an irritant.

Anti-Itch Creams and Lotions

You can use over-the-counter topical treatments like calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream, too.

However, some people can be sensitive to certain topical medications. Children may have a bad reaction to corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone cream. Topical treatment is also not recommended if the affected area is sore, infected, or features an open wound. Hives with these features may only worsen if you treat them with lotions or creams.

Cooling Home Treatments

When you have hives, a cooling sensation may comfort you and draw your attention away from the discomfort caused by skin irritation. Apply cold and wet compresses, use ice on the affected areas, or take a cold bath.

You may also keep some over-the-counter lotions and creams in the fridge, so it’s cool to the touch when you need to apply it on your skin.

Oatmeal Baths

Traditional health care practitioners have used oatmeal for skin issues for hundreds of years. Recent studies have proven its efficacy against symptoms of hives. Studies show that oatmeal has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to promote healing and reduce the uncomfortable itchiness that comes with hives. 

Experts recommend sprinkling your bath with uncooked oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal — a finely ground oatmeal for skincare purposes. You can also sprinkle it with baking soda for extra relief. Keep the temperature of the bath on the cool side. 

Loose Clothing

Wearing loose clothing made of non-scratchy fabrics will help to soothe your skin. Make sure to avoid any particularly scratchy or allergy-inducing fabrics, like wool. Cotton is usually the best choice.

If you have a case of hives that lasts for more than a few days, it’s time to call the doctor.

Sometimes, but not always, hives occur as part of a more serious allergic reaction called anaphylactic shock. Seek medical attention right away if you experience hives along with:

• Dizziness
• Trouble breathing
• Swelling of the lips, eyes, or tongue

Top Picks

How to Get Rid of Hives: 15 Ways

You may be able to relieve hives with home remedies, including aloe vera or an oatmeal bath, and over-the-counter products. But a doctor may need to treat severe or chronic hives.

Hives (urticaria) are a rash on your body. Identifying what triggered your hives is crucial to preventing them from happening again. If you can identify the trigger, you can avoid contact with it.

Although hives are often associated with allergic reactions, they can also occur due to:

• stress
• medications
• insect bites or stings
• sun exposure
• cold temperatures
• infection
• other underlying conditions

Hives generally fade within 24 hours and don’t require treatment.

However, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• dizziness
• swelling in your throat or face
• difficulty breathing

These may indicate a severe allergic reaction and require emergency care.

If your hives are milder, continue reading to learn how to ease any discomfort and speed up the healing process.

Some remedies and other products may cause a skin reaction. It’s best to do a skin patch test before applying.

How to perform a patch test

To do a skin patch test, apply a small amount of the product to an unaffected skin area. If you can, apply it to the inside of your forearm. If you don’t experience any irritation within 24 hours, it should be safe to apply to any hives.

Was this helpful?

In most cases, home remedies can help you find relief. Here are a few ways to soothe itchy skin:

Use a cold compress

Applying something cool to your skin can help relieve irritation and swelling. To do this, grab a bag of frozen veggies or wrap a handful of ice in a towel and apply it to the affected area for up to 10 minutes. Repeat as needed throughout the day.

Take a bath with an anti-itch solution

There are several products you can add to a bath to relieve itching. These include colloidal oatmeal or one or two handfuls of baking soda.

Learn more: How to make an oatmeal bath »

Avoid products that may irritate the skin

Certain soaps may dry your skin and cause more itching when you have hives. Make sure to use a mild soap that’s marketed for sensitive skin. These typically omit fragrance and irritating chemicals.

You should also avoid using irritating moisturizers or lotions. When in doubt, opt for a formula that targets sensitive skin, such as these options. Applying immediately after bathing may also help soothe the itch.

Keep things cool

Heat can make itchiness worse. Wear lightweight clothing and keep the temperature in your house cool and comfortable. Avoid sitting in direct sunlight.

If home remedies aren’t relieving your symptoms — but you aren’t ready to head to the pharmacy — you may want to give a few natural solutions a try.

Natural remedies aren’t regulated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so use them with caution.

Witch hazel

The natural tannins found in the herb witch hazel can help relieve irritation. Despite this, it may cause contact dermatitis. It’s best to test it on a small patch of skin before applying it all over.

You can apply witch hazel to your skin like a mask a few times each day. Let it sit on the affected areas for about 20 minutes, and then rinse it off.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a natural anti-inflammatory. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, applying it to the skin can help people with acne, herpes simplex, psoriasis, and other conditions affecting the skin. It is typically well-tolerated.

But, as with any new product, it’s important to do a skin patch test before application, especially if you have sensitive skin. Some aloe products may also have added fragrance or other chemicals, so be sure to read the label.

You can apply topical aloe vera to your hives as needed, likely a few times a day. Be sure to follow any instructions on the package.

If the above remedies aren’t enough to help your hives, over-the-counter (OTC) treatments may help relieve your symptoms. Not only can OTC options relieve itching and irritation, but they can also target your body’s histamine response, which is what causes hives.

Calamine lotion

Products containing calamine can help relieve itching by cooling your skin. You can apply calamine lotion directly to your skin:

1. Make sure you mix the lotion before using it by shaking the container.
2. Put some calamine lotion on a cotton pad or cloth.
3. Apply the pad or cloth directly to the hives and let dry.

You can treat the hives with calamine lotion as necessary.

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

This oral antihistamine can reduce rash and other allergy symptoms like itching by working from the inside out.

Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the package. Benadryl usually kicks in within an hour and should start to relieve your symptoms the same day.

Benadryl may cause drowsiness.

Fexofenadine (Allegra), loratadine (Claritin), and cetirizine (Zyrtec)

These antihistamines typically come in 12- or 24-hour formulas to provide extended relief. They’re also less likely to cause drowsiness than diphenhydramine.

You may need to adjust the dosage to effectively treat hives, so talk with a doctor or pharmacist. They can advise you on how much to take and how often.

If you’re experiencing severe or chronic hives, you may need prescription medication. Talk with a doctor about your symptoms and how you can best find relief.

Common prescription options include:

Prednisone (Deltasone)

This corticosteroid is taken orally. You should only use it for a short period of time as directed by a doctor. Corticosteroids can have side effects, especially if taken for extended periods of time. Side effects can include:

• elevated blood pressure
• elevated eye pressure (glaucoma)
• swelling
• weight gain
• immunosuppression, which means you may get infections more easily

To reduce side effects, take oral corticosteroids at a lower dose and transition to corticosteroid creams with your doctor’s supervision.

Omalizumab (Xolair)

This medication must be injected under the skin. This option is only available if your hives are chronic and don’t respond to antihistamines. Common side effects include:

• headache
• dizziness
• inner ear pain
• cold symptoms

Dapsone (Aczone)

This antibiotic is available topically and as an oral medication. This medication can treat inflammation due to hives or other skin conditions that are caused by bacterial infection. It’s important to take all antibiotics as prescribed.

Antibiotics only help relieve symptoms caused by a bacterial infection.

Leukotriene-receptor antagonists

This nonsteroidal treatment option is taken orally. These drugs should be used only after steroid treatment and antihistamines have been unsuccessful. There is not a lot of quality research to support their use for hives. Common side effects include:

• headache
• nausea
• cough
• low fever

If your symptoms worsen or last longer than a couple of days, you may want to talk with a doctor. They can identify the cause and provide medication to help relieve your symptoms. Understanding your triggers may help prevent future outbreaks.

What are the remedies for allergies? – article on the website Aptechestvo, Nizhny Novgorod

Allergy is a condition caused by an overreaction of the immune system to substances that are normally pathogens. Accompanied by a high reaction to substances that do not have a harmful effect on the body. The reasons have not yet been identified by scientists, so until now it has not been possible to develop drugs to cure unpleasant reactions, such as sneezing, tearing, itching, etc. But in pharmacies there are allergy medications that relieve symptoms and help relieve exacerbation. Means of the first, second and third generation can be purchased at our online pharmacy, but it is worth studying the features and indications.

Symptoms

Allergies in mild forms go unnoticed and do not require medical treatment. But unpleasant conditions can become brighter and stronger depending on the type of allergen.

The following signs are observed:

• Sneezing, it may get worse;

• Manifestations of cough, it may be accompanied by frequent and problematic breathing;

• Lack of air;

• There may be itching in the nasal region, a severe runny nose;

• Increased tearing;

• Skin itching;

• The appearance of red spots on the skin (urticaria).

First generation drugs

Means of an antihistamine type, which belong to the first generation, when taken, enter the region of the nervous system. They quickly eliminate unpleasant symptoms. But the effect does not last long, and with prolonged use, addiction is observed. When they are used, a feeling of drowsiness, weakness, headaches, dizziness, and slow reactions may occur.

Below you can consider the most effective and inexpensive allergy remedies:

• Diazolin. Does not cause severe drowsiness. It is recommended to use for prevention. Will not be able to help during severe exacerbations, severe manifestations;

• Suprastin. When used, severe drowsiness does not occur, quick help to the body with allergies. The drug is approved for use in adults and children from 3 years.

Second generation drugs

Antihistamine drugs of the second generation have a large spectrum of action. If you follow the rules when taking, there are practically no side effects. Funds are valid 24 hours. With prolonged use, there is no addiction.

Antiallergic drugs of the second group:

• Fenistil. Allergy medicine, which is available in the form of a gel, drops. Options in the form of a gel are intended for application to the surface of the skin, if there are rashes, irritations. They have a cooling, analgesic effect. Drops are more convenient to use, unlike the gel, it is convenient to take with you, they are not addictive;

• Claritin. Has a wide application. When used, there is no feeling of drowsiness, concentration of attention does not decrease. Suitable for adults, it can be used by children from 3 years old. The allergy remedy can be used for a long time;

• Tsetrin. The allergy remedy is highly effective, the tablets relieve unpleasant symptoms, relieve exacerbation. There is a form of syrup, it is suitable for children from 2 years. The action persists throughout the day. Helps relieve swelling. The syrup can be included in complex therapy, relieves spasms during bronchial asthma. The drug has no contraindications;

• Xizal (Zodak). The drug is available in several forms – in the form of tablets and syrup. It has an anti-inflammatory effect. Relieves swelling, itching, redness. The action is noted for two days. Do not use in renal failure, the drug is contraindicated in children under 6 years of age;

Third generation drugs

You can buy medicines for allergic reactions of the third generation from us. The group often includes improved second-generation drugs. They act quickly and are effective. They have few side effects, sometimes intolerance may occur.

Effective medicines include:

• Erius. The medicine is sold in the form of tablets and syrup. It has a long lasting effect. The action can last for days. When used, the manifestations of allergies are quickly eliminated;

• Fexofast When used, the manifestations of reactions are quickly eliminated. The action is observed within 12 hours. Suitable for prevention. The medicine is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age.

It is impossible to single out the best remedy for allergies, since each drug is selected individually. Each generation of drugs mainly differ in pharmacokinetics and are used as prescribed by a doctor. You can buy original medicines with antihistamine action on our website, it has a large selection, the main characteristics, indications and contraindications are indicated. But first you should consult with your doctor.

Kropyvyanka: faces, yakі assign for likuvannya

Faces that are used for juicing:

Goods: 101

Sorting:
RatingCheapest Expensive

Type:

L-May
Items: 1
Analogue: 28

Go to cat

Go to cat

Lower

Go to the box

Lower

Jump to the box

Jump to the box

Jump to the box

Alerzin
Items: 3
Analogue: 26

Go to the cat

Go to the cat

Go to the cat

Aleron
Goods: 1
Analogue: 28

Go to cat

Allegra
Items: 2
Analogue: 2

Go to the cat

Znizhizhi

Go to Koshik

Znizhka

Ammeril
Items: 1
Analogue: 13

Go to cat

Blis
Items: 1
Analogue: none

Jump to kitty

Jump to kitty

Jump to kitty

Jump to kitty

90 002 Cheaper at once

Go to cat

Cheaper at once

Go to cat

Jump to box

Jump to box

Jump to box

Go to the cat

Go to the cat

Go to the cat

Go to the cat

Cheaper at once

90 111 Go to the cat

Go to the cat

Go to the cat

Let’s go
Items: 5
Analogue: 29

Go to cat

Look around

Go to cat

Look around

Go to the box

Look around

Go to the box

Look around

Go to the box

Oglyad

Edermik
Items: 2
Analogue: 5

Go to cat

Go to cat

Go to cat

Erius
Goods: 2
Analogue: 32

Go to cat

Go to cat

Eslotin
Items: 1
Analogue: 33

Go to box

Kenalog
Items: 1
Analogue: 1

Go to cat

Go to cat

Jump to box

Jump to box

Jump to box

Jump to box

Jump to box

9 0111 Go to box

Go to box

Go to box

Editorial group

Creation date: 04/27/2021
Update date: 06/14/2023

Kropiv’yanka – tse illness, as in its basis may be allergic and toxic genesis (pohodzhennya).

General information

Kropyvyanka is one of the most common illnesses, which makes one go to the allergist. In general, under the term kropivyanka, there are a number of singing illnesses, which are characterized by differences due to the specific nature of the vine, and yet they appear in the same rank. Kropiv’yanka, the symptoms of which are manifested in the sight of crowding of puffers on the skin and mucous membranes, which are predicted by opik, withdrawals when sprinkling on the skin of the sprinkling, the reason for this is called so.

Cause kropiv’yanki

Causes of the development of kropyvyanka can be either exogenous or endogenous. Physical, temperature, mechanical, chemical, pharmacological (especially antibiotics, dietary supplements) and food products are considered to be exogenous. Endogenous causes – pathology from the side of internal organs, especially the intestinal tract, liver, nervous system.

Also, the cause of the development of kropivyanka is bites of coma (mosquitoes, fleas, mosquitoes, midges), shards in the skin of their skin consume chemically active speech like histamine.

Worm infestations play an even greater role.

symptoms Zovni pukhir – tse protruding dilyanka shkіri, scho guess next to the bite of a coma or on an opik, deprivation of a drop. Shkіrniy element – suprovodzhuєtsya sverbіnyam. Shkіra like fluff can be red. Elements can get angry, swelling giant roses. Most hangings are symmetrical in nature.

Kropiv’yanka rice is characteristic – it is the total turnover of the elements. So after stopping the attack, the sickness of the skin will turn to the end. There are no white patches, hyperpigmentation, scarring. Elements can show up on the be-yakіy dilyantsі shkіri, they can migrate. For example, today on the hands, tomorrow on the stomach …

What can you do about kropiv’yantsi

First of all, it is necessary to reveal and use all pathogenetic factors that lead to the vindication of illness.

Greater value:

• diet,
• mode,
• nervous system mill,
• shlunkovo-intestinal tract mill.