Hives Related to Thyroid Problems

Hyperthyroidism, which is a condition where your thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone, and hypothyroidism, when your thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormone, and the treatments for these conditions can sometimes produce hives as a side effect. Sometimes, hives themselves can be a reason to have your thyroid tested.

Antithyroid Drugs

• Methimazole, or Tapazole, and Propylthiouracil, usually called PTU, are antithyroid drugs used to treat hyperthyroidism. One of the possible side effects of these medications is hives.

Dermatitis Herpetiformis

• Dermatitis herpetiformis is a condition that can be associated with autoimmune thyroid disease. Hives on your back and lower extremities are one of the symptoms of this condition.

Chronic Urticaria

• Chronic urticaria is another term for chronic hives. It is a condition that increases your risk of thyroid imbalance, according to Dr. Ridha Arem's "The Thyroid Solution: A Revolutionary Mind-Body Program for Regaining Your Emotional and Physical Health."

RAI

• RAI, or radioactive iodine treatment, is a common treatment for hyperthyroidism and sometimes used as a tool to determine how well your thyroid is functioning. Along with tenderness to your thyroid, nausea and bladder irritation, hives are a possible, if rare, side effect.

Allergic Reaction

• If you develop hives as a reaction to thyroid medication, consult your doctor, as he may want to discontinue your medication program and try a different treatment.