Urticaria Hives Treatment

Hives are itchy, red welts on your skin that are typically caused by an allergic reaction. They are most commonly caused by a exposure to a food or medicine, according to the National Institutes of Health, but they can also sometimes be caused by stress or infections. Because of the itching they cause, hives are extremely uncomfortable. In some people, a hives outbreak can cover the entire body. In others, only certain areas, such as the face, neck and chest, may be affected.

Oral Antihistamines

• Oral anthistamines such as Claritin and Zyrtec can stop the body's production of histamine, which should prevent a hives outbreak if you are exposed to an allergen.

Epinephrine

• In extremely severe cases, an injection of epinephrine may be needed to treat hives. This medication may be necessary if you go into anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening condition that requires emergency medical treatment.

Oral Steriods

• A type of oral steroid called corticosteroids can be used to treat a hives outbreak by reducing swelling and itching. Corticosteroids cannot be used long-term, however.

Trycyclic Antidepressants

• Trycyclic antidepressants are sometimes prescribed for people with chronic hives because they are similar to antihistamines in that they help reduce the itching from an attack.

Home Remedies

• Some things you can try at home to treat a hives outbreak include cold showers or baths, cold compresses and over-the-counter anti-itch medications such as calamine lotion and antihistamine sprays.

Avoid Triggers

• If certain foods or other allergens trigger hives, completely avoiding them is your best defense. Allergy tests can help determine what is causing hives outbreaks.