Hives are a type of allergic reaction that can be painful and uncomfortable to manage. We spoke to experts to understand the causes of hives and how you can soothe your itchy skin.
Hives, also known as urticaria, are skin reactions that can occur due to certain food or medication allergies. They can result in raised bumps or welts on the skin that are red and itchy.
While hives may result from an allergic reaction, identifying the exact cause of hives poses a challenge. This is because it’s not always clear how the condition began.
Hives are usually temporary and may go away on their own. But antihistamine medications such as Pepcid (famotidine) can help ease symptoms.
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“Hives are a type of immune reaction that develops very quickly. The most common allergic triggers of hives are medication and food allergies,” says Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board certified dermatologist based in New York.
Common medications that may cause hives include:
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Caldolor)
sulfonylureas (a group of medications used to treat type 2 diabetes) such as glyburide (Glynase), glimepiride (Amaryl), and glipizide (Glucotrol)
Various other factors can also cause your body’s immune system to overreact and result in hives, including:
airborne allergens, such as pollen, animal dander, dust mites, and mold
contact allergens, such as saliva from cats or dogs
infections
insect bites and stings
heat or sunlight
pressure or rubbing from clothing
vibratory urticaria, where the skin is exposed to repetitive friction from vibrations, such as a bumpy car ride
But, in some cases, hives may be one part of a bigger immune response. “Hives associated with other symptoms, such as wheezing, decreased blood pressure, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain or dizziness, could be due to anaphylaxis,” says Katie Marks-Cogan, MD, a board certified allergist who practices in Los Angeles.
If you think you’re experiencing anaphylaxis, it’s important to seek medical help immediately.
How long do hives from an allergic reaction last?
It’s difficult to predict how long hives will last because it’s different for everyone. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, hives may last minutes, or they could occur again for months or even years.
Short-term (acute) episodes of hives typically last up to 6 weeks. If your reaction lasts longer than this, it may indicate long-term (chronic) hives.
“That said, sometimes new hives emerge as quickly as the old ones disappear,” says Marks-Cogan. This is why it’s important to identify the cause to avoid exposing yourself to the trigger again.
What are chronic hives?
“When hives last longer than 6 weeks, they’re considered chronic,” says Murphy-Rose.
“An autoimmune condition or physical stimulus is the most common cause of chronic hives. Very often, the cause is idiopathic, meaning the trigger is unknown,” she says.
To find the cause of your hives, doctors may consider your medical history and run some tests.
What are the best treatments for hives?
Doctors typically recommend a combination of medication and home remedies to help treat hives.
Medications
A common medication option for hives is Pepcid, also known by its generic name famotidine.
The drug can provide a safe and effective way to help reduce hives and prevent the progression of worsening symptoms.
Other medications that can help treat hives include:
“If you have chronic hives that aren’t responding to the above treatments, a doctor may consider prescribing a biologic medication such as omalizumab (Xolair),” says Marks-Cogan.
Home remedies
Home remedies that can help include:
covering the rash with a cool washcloth to help soothe any itching
If your hives don’t go away after 6 weeks, it’s important to speak with a doctor. You may want to rule out the possibility of a more serious condition.
Summary
Hives, also known as urticaria, are skin reactions that can happen due to food or medication allergies. Acute episodes of hives typically last for up to 6 weeks. If your reaction lasts longer than this, it may indicate chronic hives.
When it comes to treating hives, doctors typically recommend a combination of medication and home remedies. A common medication option for hives is Pepcid, also known by its generic name famotidine.
If you’re still experiencing hives after 6 weeks, it’s important to speak with a doctor to rule out any underlying conditions.
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