Hives Allergy: What are the Symptoms, Causes and Treatment?

Ankita is an outdoorsy young girl, whose typical day spends by enjoying activities such as hiking, trekking, swimming etc. On a sunny day, she went trekking with her friends. However, after returning home she noticed red and itchy bumps on her skin. This was the first time she was having hives. Concerned about her health she consulted a doctor and was diagnosed with a hives allergy. Sadly, she had no idea what is hives allergy and what triggers it.

If you are also looking to know more about hives allergy, this article is for you.

Let’s hit the bull’s eye without further ado!

What are Hives?

Hives, or Urticaria, is a skin condition where red and itchy bumps appear on the skin as a result of an allergic reaction. This allergic reaction occurs due to exposure to an allergen, which causes your body to release histamine. Histamines are chemicals produced by the body as a defence against allergens. These histamines lead to swelling, itching and hive breakouts.

What Causes You to Get Hives?

In addition to what allergies cause hives, there are triggers also that can cause a hive allergy. Some common allergens and triggers are:

• Food
• Medication
• Infection or underlying health issues
• Environmental factors like dust, pollens, plants, animal dander, etc.
• Stress
• Physical stimuli like exercise, pressure on the skin from tight clothing, excessive sweating, and excess exposure to hot or cold
• Latex
• Blood transfusions

What are the Symptoms and Types of Hives?

The classic symptom of hive allergy is an itchy wheal or welt on the skin with redness and swelling. Most of the time, these hives are harmless and disappear within 24 hours. However, in some cases, symptoms can last for many days. Depending on the severity, there are two different types of hives as explained below,

1. Acute Urticaria

This type of hive allergy does not last long (less than six weeks). It occurs as an immediate response to exposure to an allergen.

2. Chronic Urticaria

Also called chronic idiopathic urticaria, it is a hive allergy that lasts for more than 6 weeks. These are mostly recurring hives that disrupt daily life. It is difficult to identify the root cause and tell what allergic reaction causes hives, it can be a symptom of an existing health condition such as an autoimmune disorder, celiac disease etc.

What to Do for Hives Allergic Reaction?

Hives can be a sign of something serious, so even if you have a mild hive allergy, it is best to consult an allergist and identify the root cause of the allergy as Ankita did. Your allergist may advise a skin-prick test and some blood tests to identify the cause. Once the trigger is identified, the treatment is decided. Common treatment options include:

1. Antihistamine

Antihistamine medicines block the histamines released in the body, reducing itching, inflammation, and allergic reactions.

2. Avoiding the Trigger

If you know the trigger, you can prevent an occurrence by avoiding it completely such as avoiding the food or medication causing an allergic reaction.

3. At-home Treatment

You can take a cold shower to soothe your skin or apply a calamine lotion, which has a cooling effect. Wear light cotton clothes that are soothing for your skin.

4. Consult Doctor

In case of a severe allergic reaction, it is best to consult your doctor, who will assess and prescribe medication specific to your condition.

>> Also Read: Chronic Liver Ailment: Know the Risk Factors

Summing Up

After understanding everything about hives allergy, Ankita was able to find out her triggers and ways to manage the allergic reaction. She was also able to prevent future outbreaks by avoiding triggers and working on improving her immunity.

Ankita also understood that medical emergencies can occur anytime, anywhere and to anyone, irrespective of age. Hence she decided to invest in a comprehensive health insurance plan that matches her medical needs.

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