Hives, also known as urticaria, is a skin condition that results in the appearance of red, itchy, and raised welts or bumps on the skin. Hives can appear on any part of the body and can be triggered by a variety of factors, including allergies, infections, stress, and medication. Although hives are not typically a serious condition, they can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life.
What causes hives?
Hives are caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Allergies: Allergic reactions to foods, medications, insect bites, and environmental factors such as pollen, can trigger hives.
- Infections: Viral and bacterial infections can cause hives in some people. Common infections that can trigger hives include the common cold, hepatitis, and urinary tract infections.
- Stress: Emotional stress and physical stress can cause the release of certain chemicals in the body that can trigger hives.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause hives in some people.
- Physical triggers: Exposure to heat, cold, or pressure can cause hives in some people.
- Underlying medical conditions: In rare cases, hives may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as thyroid disease or lupus.
Symptoms of hives
The symptoms of hives include:
- Raised, red, itchy bumps or welts on the skin that can vary in size and shape.
- Swelling of the affected area.
- Burning or stinging sensation in the affected area.
- Blistering in severe cases.
- The appearance of new hives and fading of old ones, which can last for hours or even days.
In some cases, hives may be accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and dizziness. These symptoms may indicate a more serious allergic reaction, and medical attention should be sought immediately.
Types of hives
There are two main types of hives: acute and chronic.
- Acute Hives: Acute hives are a sudden onset of hives that usually last less than six weeks. They can be caused by a wide range of triggers, including allergies, medications, infections, and stress. Acute hives typically disappear on their own within a few days or weeks, but in some cases, they may require treatment with medications.
- Chronic Hives: Chronic hives last longer than six weeks and can last for months or even years. The cause of chronic hives is often unknown, but they may be associated with an underlying medical condition such as thyroid disease, lupus, or certain infections. Chronic hives are more difficult to treat than acute hives, and treatment typically involves a combination of medication and lifestyle changes.
Hives can also be classified according to their appearance and location on the body. Some common types of hives based on appearance and location include:
- Dermatographic Hives: Dermatographic hives, also known as “skin writing,” are raised, red welts that appear after the skin is scratched or rubbed. The welts can appear within a few minutes of scratching and can last for up to an hour.
- Pressure Hives: Pressure hives are raised, red welts that appear in response to pressure on the skin. They can be caused by tight clothing, belts, or sitting for long periods of time.
- Cold Urticaria: Cold urticaria is a type of hives that is triggered by exposure to cold temperatures. The welts can appear within minutes of exposure to cold and can be accompanied by symptoms such as itching and swelling.
- Cholinergic Urticaria: Cholinergic urticaria is a type of hives that is triggered by an increase in body temperature. The welts can appear after exercise, a hot shower, or emotional stress.
- Solar Urticaria: Solar urticaria is a type of hives that is triggered by exposure to sunlight. The welts can appear within minutes of exposure to the sun and can be accompanied by symptoms such as itching and swelling.
Overall, hives can take on various forms and can be caused by a wide range of triggers. If hives occur frequently or are accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Who is at risk?
Anyone can develop hives, but some people may be at a higher risk than others. The following groups may be more susceptible to developing hives:
- People with a history of allergies: Individuals with a history of allergies may be more likely to develop hives in response to certain allergens.
- Women: Women are more likely to develop hives than men, possibly due to hormonal fluctuations.
- People with certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders or thyroid disease, may increase the risk of developing hives.
- People with a family history of hives: A family history of hives or other allergic conditions may increase the risk of developing hives.
- Children and young adults: Hives can occur at any age, but they are more common in children and young adults.
- People with certain medications: Some medications, such as antibiotics, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause hives in some people.
- People with certain infections: Certain viral and bacterial infections can cause hives in some people.
Diagnosing hives
Diagnosing hives typically involves a physical examination and a review of medical history. The doctor may ask questions about possible triggers for the hives, such as recent medication changes, exposure to allergens, and recent stress levels.
A skin test may be performed to help identify the cause of the hives. This involves placing a small amount of a suspected allergen on the skin and then pricking or scratching the skin to allow the allergen to enter the skin. The doctor will then observe the area for signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives or redness.
Blood tests may also be ordered to rule out underlying medical conditions that may be causing the hives. These tests can measure levels of certain antibodies in the blood that are associated with allergies.
In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to help diagnose the cause of the hives. This involves removing a small piece of skin and examining it under a microscope to look for signs of inflammation or other abnormalities.
It is important to inform the doctor about any other symptoms that may be present, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. These symptoms may indicate a more serious allergic reaction, and medical attention should be sought immediately.
Overall, diagnosing hives involves a thorough evaluation of medical history and symptoms, as well as physical and laboratory tests to help identify the underlying cause of the hives.
Treating hives
The treatment of hives typically involves identifying and avoiding the trigger, if possible. Antihistamines may be prescribed to relieve itching and reduce the severity of the hives. Antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body that causes inflammation and itching.
If hives are caused by an underlying medical condition, treating the condition may also help to alleviate the symptoms of hives. For example, if the hives are caused by an infection, treating the infection may help to reduce the severity of the hives.
In some cases, more aggressive treatment may be needed to control hives. This may include the use of oral or topical corticosteroids, which help to reduce inflammation and itching. Corticosteroids should be used for short periods of time as they can have side effects if used for long periods.
If hives are severe or chronic, immunosuppressants or biologics may be used to suppress the immune system and reduce the severity of the symptoms.
In addition to medications, there are also some home remedies and lifestyle changes that may help to alleviate the symptoms of hives. These include:
- Applying cool compresses or taking cool baths to help soothe the skin.
- Avoiding tight-fitting clothing, as it may irritate the skin and worsen the hives.
- Reducing stress through techniques such as meditation or yoga.
- Avoiding extreme temperatures, as exposure to heat or cold can trigger hives in some people.
- Using fragrance-free soaps and detergents to avoid skin irritation.
It is important to follow the treatment plan recommended by a healthcare provider and avoid any triggers that may worsen the symptoms of hives. In some cases, it may take several weeks or even months to fully control the symptoms of hives.
FAQs
How long do hives last?
The duration of hives can vary depending on the underlying cause and type of hives. Acute hives typically last less than six weeks and may disappear within a few days or weeks. In some cases, acute hives may last longer and may require treatment with medications.
Chronic hives, on the other hand, can last longer than six weeks and may last for months or even years. The cause of chronic hives is often unknown, but they may be associated with an underlying medical condition. Chronic hives are more difficult to treat than acute hives, and treatment typically involves a combination of medication and lifestyle changes.
In general, hives can appear and disappear quickly, and the duration of hives may depend on various factors such as the trigger, the person’s immune system response, and the effectiveness of treatment. If hives persist or are accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or tongue, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Are hives contagious?
Hives are not contagious. Hives are a skin condition that is typically caused by an immune system response to a trigger such as an allergen, infection, or medication. Hives are not caused by bacteria or viruses, and they cannot be transmitted from one person to another through physical contact or respiratory droplets.
It is important to note, however, that some underlying medical conditions that may be associated with hives, such as infections, can be contagious. If hives are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or a rash that may indicate an underlying infection, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and prevent the spread of the infection.
How to get rid of stress hives
Stress hives, also known as cholinergic urticaria, are a type of hives that are triggered by emotional stress, exercise, or exposure to heat. If you are experiencing stress hives, there are several things that you can do to help alleviate the symptoms:
- Identify and avoid triggers: Try to identify the triggers that are causing the stress hives and avoid them as much as possible. This may involve reducing stress levels, avoiding exposure to heat, and avoiding strenuous exercise.
- Apply cool compresses: Applying cool compresses or taking cool baths may help to soothe the skin and reduce itching and swelling.
- Take antihistamines: Antihistamines can help to block the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body that causes inflammation and itching. Over-the-counter antihistamines such as loratadine, cetirizine, and fexofenadine may be effective in treating stress hives.
- Practice relaxation techniques: Engage in activities that help to reduce stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
- Use topical corticosteroids: Topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone cream, can help to reduce inflammation and itching in the affected area.
- Take prescribed medications: If the above remedies do not help, prescription medications such as oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressants may be recommended.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider if stress hives are persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or tongue.
Does Benadryl help with hives?
Yes, Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an over-the-counter antihistamine that can be effective in treating hives. Antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body that causes inflammation and itching. Benadryl can help to reduce itching and swelling in the affected area, and may also help to prevent the development of new hives.
It is important to note that Benadryl can cause drowsiness and other side effects, and may interact with other medications. It is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking Benadryl, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking other medications.
Other over-the-counter antihistamines such as loratadine, cetirizine, and fexofenadine may also be effective in treating hives and may have fewer side effects than Benadryl. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult a doctor or healthcare provider if symptoms persist or are accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or tongue.