Causes & Cures of Welting

Welting is a swelling of the surface of the skin in red, raised itchy spots or splotches. The condition has many possible causes. Welts, which are also commonly called hives, are similar to angioedema, which is a swelling below the skin's surface. Welts can be incredibly uncomfortable. To prevent and treat welting, it is important to know the causes and cures.

Foods

• One of the most common causes of welting is the consumption of certain foods. Some foods that are more likely to cause welting are those that many people already have allergies to, such as milk and other dairy products, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish. If you start getting welts or hives, consider what you recently ate, since it may have triggered your reaction.

Medications and Other Causes

• Medications that commonly cause welts or hives are aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, penicillin and various blood pressure medications. Besides common food allergens, there are other common allergens that may cause welting, such as animal dander, insect stings, latex and pollen. Environmental factors such as cold, heat, sunlight, water, exercise and emotional stress can be triggers for some sensitive individuals. Other causes are immune system disorders, response to a blood transfusion, bacterial or viral infections and some thyroid conditions.

Cures for Mild Welting

• If you are only experiencing mild welting, there are easy home remedies you can try. After figuring out what may have caused the allergic reaction, remember to try to avoid it. One cure you can try for mild welting is an antihistamine purchased over-the-counter. Some examples include cetirizine, diphenydramine and loratadine. Ask a pharmacist for assistance. You can also take a cool bath and stir in some baking soda, colloidal oatmeal or uncooked oatmeal.

Cures for Severe Welting

• Severe welting, which can cause intense discomfort and itching, is typically cured with the use of antihistamines to reduce swelling and itching. Some prescription antihistamines that your doctor may prescribe are desloratadine, fexofenadine and levocetirizine. These are second-generation, or newer, antihistamines that are less likely to have side effects such as drowsiness. However, first-generation antihistamines such as hydroxyzine may also be prescribed, especially if you're having trouble sleeping because of discomfort.