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Causes of Hives and Skin Irritation

Hives and skin irritation are part of the body's inflammatory response, which is the body's way of responding to pathogens, irritants and other harmful stimuli or stimuli that the body perceives to be harmful. Though the response can be painful and irritating, it is essential to the body's healing process. In most cases, the most effective way to avoid skin irritation or hives is learning your triggers and avoiding them.

  1. Allergens

    • If you ingest or come into contact with an allergen, a substance which your body sees as a pathogen, your body may react with inflammation in the form of hives. Anything can be an allergen including certain foods, medications, lotions and detergents. Often isolating it in your diet or routine can be effective, but consult a doctor if you find that you have hives to accurately identify the cause.

    Bug Bites

    • Insect bites are a common cause of skin irritation. Many insects such as mosquitoes, bees, wasps and ants inject venom. Venom contains histamine and causes your body to release more histamine that can cause your skin to swell and itch. If you have only a small, localized area of swelling and itching accompanied by a small puncture wound, you might have an insect bite. It is possible to have a severe allergic reaction from an insect bite or sting, but most are generally harmless and the majority of the pain should subside within a few days. The mark will disappear completely within a few weeks.

    Chronic Conditions

    • Chronic conditions like rosacea, psoriasis and eczema are common causes of skin redness, inflammation and irritation. Though these conditions are chronic they can be managed and treated with a good degree of success. Eczema and rosacea respond particularly well to limiting exposure to triggers and irritants. If you know that you suffer from a condition that may chronically irritate your skin, speak with your doctor to manage it.

    Sun Damage

    • When your skin is exposed to the UV rays from the sun, it responds by releasing more melanin. When your skin is exposed to too much UV radiation, you may experience a sunburn. Common symptoms of a sunburn are redness, pain and itching. More severe sunburns may result in blisters, which need medical attention. Though sunburns can be life threatening, most are just uncomfortable. Aloe and moisturizers aid in the healing process. Sunscreen and protective clothing can be used to prevent future sunburns.

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