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Hives
Medical Questions » Hives
| Name: Hives |
| Also known as: Angioedema; Urticaria |
| An allergic reaction in the skin. Angioedema is a term used more commonly when the lips or eyelid is involved and becomes severely swollen, with only slight itchiness and redness. |
Causes of Hives
Common causes include brushing against plants that may have stinging nettles on their surface, insect bites and chemicals (in creams, cosmetics, soaps) that are applied to the skin. Hives may also occur in a non-allergic form, which may be a response to stress. Some patients with long-term and recurrent forms of urticaria may be reacting to salicylates and tartrazine, chemicals that occur naturally in a wide range of foods. |
Symptoms of Hives
Red, raised, itchy weals may be limited to a small area, or spread widely over the skin. The rash develops rapidly over a few minutes or a couple of hours, and may persist for up to two weeks, although two or three days is average. |
Tests for Hives
Skin and blood tests can be undertaken in an attempt to identify the substance responsible for the reaction. |
Treatment for Hives
Antihistamines or steroids by mouth or injection. Tricyclic antidepressants also seem to benefit some patients with persistent hives. Soothing creams, lotions and baths can give relief to patients during the worst stages of an attack. A diet which is free of salicylates and tartrazine may be of benefit.
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Complications of Hives of its treatment
Some rarer forms may become chronic and last for months or years. |
Likely Outcome of Hives
Most patients settle with appropriate treatment. |
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