HANDLING HIVES

Hives, or Urticaria, appear as swollen pale red bumps on the skin that erupt very suddenly for unknown reasons or as the body’s reaction to certain allergens. Hives may itch, burn or sting, and may appear anywhere on the body, including the lips, face, tongue, throat or ears. Hives may be as large as a dinner plate or as small as a pencil eraser, and can last for up to 24 hours before fading.

The sudden onset of Hives can be ascribed to allergic reactions, chemicals in certain foods, insect stings, sunlight exposure, and certain medications, all of which cause histamine release.

One variety of Hives is Acute Urticaria, caused due to reaction to certain foods, medications, infections or insect bites. Acute Urticaria can also be caused by a reaction to foods like nuts, chocolate, fish, tomatoes, eggs, fresh berries, milk, and food additives. Drugs like aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen and painkillers like Codeine, also cause Hives.

It is vital to remember that the appearance of Hives can indicate something more deep-rooted like Thyroid disease, Hepatitis infection or Cancer. You are advised to get a Skin Test to determine the substance to which you are allergic. Routine blood tests are carried out to determine if a system-wide illness is present.

The best treatment for Hives is to identify and eliminate the trigger, but this is not always quick or easy. Antihistamines are effective in providing relief from symptoms, while the trigger is being identified. In fact, your Doctor will select the appropriate treatment based on the severity of the Hives. You are advised not to self-medicate or apply any creams/lotions, without consulting an expert. Wear loose-fitting clothes, sleep in a cool room and apply cold compresses to the affected areas until you see a Doctor. It is most important that you understand the implications of Hives and handle the situation effectively.