Skin Problems: Hives

Hives, also known as urticaria, create itchy, red welts on the skin and have numerous causes, but most often result from an allergic reaction. A type of hives, called angioedema, causes swelling and welts near the eyes and lips. You are more likely to have hives if you have had the condition before or have had other types of allergic reactions. If there is a family history of hives, you may also be at greater risk of the condition.

Causes

• Allergens that often induce hives include animal dander, insect bites, medications, pollen, shellfish, nuts and other foods. Stress, exposure to extreme temperatures, excessive perspiration, and certain illnesses--such as lupus, other autoimmune diseases and mononucleosis--can also cause hives. In some instances, hives may be triggered when the body produces antibodies, such as in the case of a blood transfusion, cancer, thyroid disorders, infections, hepatitis or even when you are suffering from a common cold.

Symptoms

• The most common symptom of hives is the itchy, swollen welts that they cause on the surface of the skin. The welts may get larger as the condition progresses and may run together. They may disappear and reappear quickly. In most instances, hives do not leave permanent marks. However, hives can last up to six weeks with a chronic condition sometimes lasting for years.

  With angiodema, the hives occur deeper within the skin. Blisters may appear in areas of swelling and the affected areas may be painful or warm.

Treatment

• If the hives reaction is mild, the condition will likely disappear on its own and will not require treatment. The most common treatment for hives is an antihistamine, most likely Diphenhydramine. However, if the condition is more severe, you may need to seek emergency care. In the case of an allergic reaction, the throat can swell shut and a shot of epinephrine may be needed to stop the blockage of the airway.

Home Care

• While you are suffering from hives, to avoid exacerbating the itching and discomfort that may accompany the rash, don't take hot baths or showers. Wearing tight-fitting clothing may also make the condition worse. You should also avoid hot baths and tight-fitting clothing for a while after recovering from hives to a recurrence of the condition. Applying cold compresses may help relieve some of the itching associated with hives.

Types

• There are several types of hives. Acute urticaria is a type of hive that lasts less than six weeks and is most often caused by an allergic reaction to food or medicine. Occasionally, an insect bite, disease or infection may be the cause of acute urticaria. Chronic urticaria is a type of hive that lasts more than six weeks. In most cases, the cause of chronic urticaria is not known. In addition to the rash, chronic urticaria can include symptoms of muscle soreness, shortness of breath, vomiting and diarrhea. Physical urticaria is hives that occur as the result of a physical stimulus. This might be cold, heat, sun, sweating or exercise. This type of hive usually only lasts about an hour after the exposure.