Hives, medically known as urticaria, are a common dermatological condition characterized by raised, itchy welts on the skin’s surface. Hives occur due to the release of histamine and other chemicals in response to an allergen or trigger, leading to localized inflammation and swelling of the skin. The triggers can include certain foods, medications, insect stings, pollen, pet dander, stress, or environmental factors. Hives can be acute, lasting for a few hours or days, or chronic, persisting for more than six weeks.
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Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (HS)
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Causes Of Hives
Hives can be caused by various factors, and the exact trigger may vary from person to person. Some common causes of hives include:
- Allergic Reactions
- Infections
- Physical Triggers
- Stress and Emotional Factors
- Autoimmune Disorders
- Exercise-Induced Urticaria
- Environmental Allergens
- Contact with Irritants.
Nuts, particularly peanuts, shellfish, soy products, gluten, chocolate, strawberries, milk products, spices, and eggs are a few examples of foods that can commonly cause hives. Aspirin, penicillin, and other antibiotics, as well as sulfa, are medicines that frequently trigger allergic reactions of this kind.
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Risk Factors
People with allergies and those with a family history of the condition are more prone to get hives. Patients with certain thyroid abnormalities or autoimmune diseases like lupus are more likely to experience hives than people without these symptoms.
Treatment
The treatment for hives aims to alleviate symptoms, identify and avoid triggers, and prevent future outbreaks. The specific treatment approach may vary depending on the severity and duration of hives. Here are common methods of treatment for hives:
- Antihistamines
- Wear Loose Fitted Clothes
- Cool Compresses
- Avoid Scratching
- Corticosteroids
- Lifestyle and Dietary Changes
Additional Resources
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
First Health
Healthspring
Humana
