Overview
Hives,
also known as urticaria, is a skin condition characterized by the sudden onset
of raised, red, and itchy welts or wheals on the skin. These welts can vary in
size and shape and often appear and disappear within a short period. Hives can
be acute or chronic, and while they are usually harmless, they can be
uncomfortable and may be a sign of an underlying issue.
Causes
This
is a skin reaction that causes bumps, raised patches, or both to suddenly
appear on the skin. The bumps and raised patches are often itchy and may look
swollen.
Allergic Reactions: Hives can be triggered by
an allergic reaction to certain foods, medications, insect stings, or
environmental factors.Non-Allergic Causes: Infections, stress,
certain medical conditions (such as autoimmune disorders), and exposure
to extreme temperatures can also lead to hives.Idiopathic Urticaria: In some cases, the cause
of hives remains unknown, and it is referred to as idiopathic urticaria.Acute Urticaria: Lasts for a few hours to a
few weeks and is often related to an identifiable trigger.Chronic Urticaria: Persists for more than six
weeks and may be more challenging to determine the cause.
Symptoms
Severe itching: The affected areas can become intensely itchy.Painful swelling of lips and throat: Known as angioedema, this swelling can be distressing.Batches of red or skin-colored welts: These raised areas appear suddenly and may vary in size.Inflammation: The skin becomes inflamed due to the immune response.
Treatment: Modern Medicine
Antihistamines: These are usually the first line of treatment for hives. They help block the effects of histamine, a substance released by the body during an allergic reaction, which causes itching, swelling, and other symptoms. Antihistamines can be either over-the-counter (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine) or prescription-strength (e.g., fexofenadine, desloratadine). Some newer-generation antihistamines cause less drowsiness compared to older ones.Corticosteroids: In cases of severe hives or when antihistamines alone are ineffective, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching. These are usually prescribed for short periods to minimize side effects.Anti-inflammatory medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin may help relieve symptoms, especially if there is accompanying pain or inflammation. However, NSAIDs can sometimes worsen hives in some people.Leukotriene receptor antagonists: Medications such as montelukast can be used to block the action of leukotrienes, substances in the body that can contribute to inflammation and allergic reactions.Immunomodulators: Drugs like omalizumab may be used in cases of chronic hives that don't respond to other treatments. Omalizumab works by targeting immunoglobulin E (IgE), a substance involved in allergic reactions.
Treatment: Traditional Medicine
Herbal Remedies:
- Chamomile: Chamomile tea or compresses can soothe itching and inflammation.
- Calendula: Calendula ointment or cream may help reduce redness and discomfort.
- Aloe Vera: Apply fresh aloe vera gel to affected areas for cooling relief.
- Basil Leaves: Crush basil leaves and apply the juice to hives.
Home Remedies :
Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area can help reduce inflammation, itching, and swelling associated with hives.Oatmeal Baths: Adding colloidal oatmeal to bathwater and soaking in it can help soothe irritated skin and relieve itching caused by hives.Aloe Vera: Applying aloe vera gel directly to the hives can help soothe itching and reduce inflammation. Aloe vera has natural anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.Baking Soda: Adding baking soda to bathwater or making a paste with water and applying it to the hives can help relieve itching and irritation.Calamine Lotion: Applying calamine lotion to the affected area can help soothe itching and provide a cooling sensation.
Caution
Avoid hot showers or baths: Hot water can worsen itching and irritation, so opt for lukewarm water when showering or bathing.Avoid scratching: Although it may be tempting, scratching can further irritate the skin and worsen hives.Avoid triggers: Try to identify and avoid triggers that
may be causing your hives. Common triggers include certain foods (such
as nuts, shellfish, eggs, or food additives), medications (like
antibiotics or aspirin), insect bites, pet dander, pollen, or stress.
Prevention
Identify Triggers: Keep a diary to track activities, foods, medications, and environmental factors that seem to trigger hives. Common triggers include certain foods (such as nuts, shellfish, eggs, and dairy), medications (like antibiotics or NSAIDs), insect bites, pollen, pet dander, stress, and exposure to heat or cold.Avoid Allergens: Once you've identified triggers, take steps to avoid them. This might involve reading food labels carefully, wearing protective clothing or insect repellent when outdoors, using air purifiers or allergy-proof bedding at home, and minimizing exposure to known allergens.Gradual Exposure: If you have hives triggered by physical stimuli like heat, cold, pressure, or sunlight, gradually exposing yourself to these triggers may help your body become less reactive over time. This approach should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.Medication Management: If you have hives triggered by medications, talk to your healthcare provider about alternative medications or strategies for managing your condition without triggering hives.Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate hives in some people, so finding ways to manage stress through techniques like meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or counseling may help prevent outbreaks.Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. A healthy immune system is better equipped to handle potential triggers.
Nalamaree Team
