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Information on Hives in Babies

When hives appear on a baby, the cause can be an allergic reaction or they can occur for reasons unknown. The cause sometimes can be tracked back to the use of a new body product such as lotion or shampoo. Chemicals in new clothing also can cause a reaction. The most common place for hives to show up is the torso, but they can appear on any part of the body. There are several ways to make an episode more comfortable. Though disconcerting, hives rarely need medical intervention.

  1. Recognizing Hives

    • Hives can first appear as a single raised red or white bump and can rapidly multiply into large groups. The raised welts sometimes look like they are surrounded by splotchy, red areas. They usually itch but also can sting or burn. Hives can be very small or can grow to be as large as a plate.

    Causes

    • Hives can be caused by illness, food allergies, exposure to the sun, reactions to medications, insect bites and stings, or a new product that comes in contact with their body. Sometimes you can track the episode back to one of those situations. In most cases, the cause of a specific episode won't ever be found. Hives are caused by an allergic reaction to histamines.

    Treatment

    • The best way to treat and prevent hives is to find out what is causing the reaction and then removing that item from your child's environment. If the cause can't be located, there still are ways to ease the discomfort. A cool, wet cloth applied to the irritated areas can help soothe your baby's skin. Heat seems to make an episode more uncomfortable, so keeping your baby dressed in loose, lightweight clothes in a cool room will help prevent further irritation. Antihistamines, available over-the-counter or by prescription, can be recommended by the baby's pediatrician or doctor.

    How Long do Hives Last?

    • Hives can come and go over a period of minutes, hours and sometimes even weeks. They also can appear for only a few minutes and never return again.

    Warning

    • In the case of a severe reaction, your baby should be taken to a doctor. Warning signs for a baby could be dizziness, breathing difficulty, wheezing, tightness of the throat, or swelling of the hands, feet, lips or face.

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