There is a pretty decent chance that you or someone you know has suffered from hives at some point in your life. And while hives are not usually all that serious, you know that coming down with the hives causes all sorts of inconveniences and a general sense of being miserable. In doctor speak, hives are known as urticaria. The condition is marked by itchy, red welts on the skin. Here we have broken down everything you need to know about hives, how to treat hives, and what causes them, how to treat hives and when a case of the hives may warrant medical attention.
Examples of things that may cause a simple case of the hives include contact with certain plants, pet dander, fragranced lotions or detergents, chemicals in foods, certain medications or even sunlight. To try to pinpoint what may be behind your case of the hives, try to reflect back on your activity immediately preceding the formation of the hives to determine if you came in contact with or ingested something out of the ordinary. Then you will at least have an idea of your hives’ cause and, wherever possible, be able to avoid it in the future.
In the Phoenix area, springtime is the time of year when it seems we treat the most cases of the hives (along with other allergic reactions, injuries, etc.). Not only are people suffering from seasonal allergies, but they are also apt to come into contact with plant-based stimuli because they are more likely to be outdoors and taking advantage of our beautiful weather.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Hives
If someone has a severe allergy to something, hives will likely be among the first symptoms to present itself. However, in the case of severe allergies, other symptoms will likely occur as well, depending on the type of allergy. People allergic to certain foods or medications, for example, will likely find that in addition to hives, they also have swelling of the tongue, lips, face or throat (which may cause difficulty speaking or swallowing), wheezing, vomiting, shortness of breath, dizziness or tightness in the chest. If you or a family member has hives coupled with other symptoms like those listed or others, be sure to seek out the advice of a medical professional immediately.
Furthermore, most hives dissipate within the course of a day or two, if not sooner. While hives can routinely last for weeks, if you finds yourself with hives that last for a long time—or if you or a loved one are getting hives frequently—you will also want to schedule an appointment with a health practitioner. In this case, it is not a serious as the severe allergic reaction scenario, but it is best not to put off the appointment either. Hives are too much of a hassle for anyone to have to deal with for an extended period of time and you will want the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your hives are not a sign of something more serious. If you have any questions or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact us!
- 7 years ago
Arrowhead Health
Categories:
Family Practice
All About Hives! Including How to Treat Hives
Tags: hivesHow to treat hives
Related Post
-
When Can Babies Go In The Pool? Infant Pool Safety Tips
Temperatures have now reached triple digits here in Phoenix and we can only expect it…
-
Preparing for Your Annual Physical
With each new year comes a trip to your family physician for an annual physical.…