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There are various causes for hives, and among them include allergic reactions. Getting rid of hives depends so much on identifying what caused them in the first place. It is only then that you can get rid of them effectively – going for the root cause!
Typically, hives are lumpy rashes on the skin which are sometimes itchy. Other names for them include nettle rash, welts, and weals. You can also call them urticaria if you are into scientific jargon.
The associated rash can produce an uncomfortable and itchy situation usually affecting a large part of the body. No doubt the symptoms are irritating, but there are numerous ways through which you can treat or sooth the condition. In most of the time, the rash clears within several days.
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The Different Types of Hives
Even though the raised itchy rash comes in various forms, the cause is normally the same.
- Acute urticaria: the rash happens as a result of adverse allergic reactions to certain foods. In most cases, these hives last not more than six weeks. Other causes include insect bites and infections.
- Chronic Urticaria: these last for more than six months and are as a result of an underlying condition such as cancer, thyroid disease or hepatitis. Angioedema and chronic urticaria are more serious than acute urticaria and easily spreads to other parts of the body such as the intestinal tract, muscles, and lungs. And even though itchy, angioedema produces a deeper swelling.
- Physical Urticaria: it is as a result of skin irritation due to cold or heat. Overexposure to the extremes of weather, sweating or chemicals in new clothing can all cause physical urticaria. Friction on the skin as you exercise can also lead to an outbreak. But unlike other forms of hives, the physical urticaria rarely goes beyond the affected area.
- Dermatographism: the rashes are almost similar to physical urticaria. The hives appear after vigorous rubbing or scratching – they are a reaction to the rubbing stimulus.
What Causes Hives?
The main cause for a hive outbreak is high levels of chemical messengers such as histamine released into the skin. The high level of the messengers leads to the opening up and leaking of the bread vessels around the affected area. The resulting liquid is what causes a bump and itching around the affected area.
There are various causes for the blood vessel rupture and among the most common include an allergic reaction to an insect bite, food, or an animal bite. It can be as a result of plant irritants or a sudden change in temperature.
Other instances such as overexposure to the sun, or even infections such as colds and flu can cause hives. Food additives and preservatives will cause the rashes.
Particular medication such as blood pressure medication, ibuprofen, and codeine will cause hives. But why do these skin reactions occur? And why do they do in this manner?
Well, your immune system reacts when it senses a threat such as friction or certain food by promoting the production of chemicals – histamines.
Typically, it is critical to identify the cause for hives before taking any action to treat or sooth the symptoms.
Some of the factors that can worsen the hives include overheating, stress, caffeine, and alcohol. Hives are more likely to occur in children and women than in men.
Home Remedies for Hives
Hives are easy to treat at home, and many people do not seek treatment elsewhere. The following are among the most effective among them.
a) A Cold Compress
Applying a cold damp cloth on the hives area may provide instant relief from itching and minimize inflammation. Typically, you use the remedy as many times as you need.
A Cold Shower
Some of us shudder at the thought of cold showers and would be anywhere close to it even with a ten-foot pole. However, you may need to rethink your stance, especially if you have a couple of hives on your skin.
Specifically, cold water acts as a numbing agent and may remove any itch, and irritation as a result of the reactions.
Using Anti-Itch Solution when Bathing
Baking soda and oatmeal baths can produce a soothing feeling and get rid of the irritating itch. Another effective anti-itch is witch hazel.
Witch hazel is rich in polyphenols and tannings which together can bring relief from itching and pain. Either way, the plants are great when it comes to dealing with symptoms from hives.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is among the most popular remedies for skin problems. Specifically, Aloe Vera will soothe the skin and removes the irritation, effectively. However, a skin test may be necessary before you can opt to use the home remedy.
Stay away from Irritants
Some of the irritants that may aggravate the situation include fragranced soaps and perfumes among others. You will also need to stay off direct sun until the hives go away.
And if dealing with physical urticarial, you will need to steer clear of tight clothing.
Vitamin D
Some people swear by the effectiveness of Vitamin D as an effective remedy for hives. Well, it doesn’t hurt to try, and in any case, your bones and overall wellbeing would benefit from ingesting the supplements.
The Medical Treatments
If the hives seem a little serious, then seeking medical treatment is the wise thing to do. Some the non-prescriptions you can get include the following.
- Antihistamines for the itch
- Steroid tablets
- Diphenhydramine
- Calamine lotion
Your doctor may recommend you to a dermatologist in more serious cases.
Seeking a Medical Intervention
Typically, hives are manageable through various home remedies. However, there are times that they may prove too serious to manage, and its best to consult a medical professional. So when should you see a doctor?
- When the symptoms stay for more than a couple of days
- Painful rashes or those that leave you bruised
- Symptoms that get worse over time
- The person experiences dizziness as well
- Swelling of the throat or face
- Tightness in the chest
- Breathing difficulties