Hives, or urticaria, are red, raised, itchy welts. They appear, sometimes in clusters, on the face, trunk of the body, and, less often, on the scalp, hands, or feet. Hives can change shape, fade, then rapidly reappear. A single hive lasts less than 24 hours. After an attack, though, new ones may crop up for up to 6 weeks. According to estimates, nearly 20 percent of Americans will get hives at some time in their lives.
Hives can be (but aren't always) an allergic response to something you touched,
inhaled, or swallowed. Some common causes of hives include:
Reactions to medications such as aspirin,
sulfa, and penicillin
Animal dander (especially from cats)
Cold temperatures
Emotional or physical stress (including
exercise)
Foods (especially chocolate, nuts,
shellfish, or tomatoes)
Infections
Inhalants (especially pollen, mold spores,
or airborne chemicals)
Insect bites and stings
Rubbing or putting pressure on the skin
Exposure to chemicals
Malignant or connective tissue disease
Sometimes it is not known what causes hives. But if you can identify the triggers (try keeping a diary), you may be able to prevent future outbreaks.
Do you have any of these problems? Shortness of breath and breathing
difficulties Wheezing, dizziness Swollen lips, tongue, and/or throat |
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| Did hives start after recently taking a medication? Or, do you
have itching that is constant and severe or do you have a fever? |
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Here are some tips for a case of ordinary, nonthreatening hives:
Don't take hot baths or showers.
Heat worsens most rashes and makes them itch more.
Apply cold compresses or take a warm bath.
Wear loose-fitting clothing.
Relax as much as possible. Relaxation
therapy may help ease the itching and discomfort of hives.
Ask your doctor whether or not you should
take an antihistamine. Have him or her recommend one. Antihistamines can help relieve
itching and suppress hives. Take as directed by your doctor, or on the label.
Avoid taking aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen
or naproxen sodium. These may aggravate hives.
HEALTH AT HOME - Your Complete Guide to Symptoms, Solutions, and Self-Care © 1999 by Don R. Powell. American Institute for Preventive Medicine.
Date updated 02/01/99