Hives

Are you experiencing sudden red, raised, itchy, tiny welts or bumps in different parts of your body? You might have eaten or touched something that has caused you an allergic reaction. These bumps may sometimes be irritating, causing a burning or stinging sensation. You may also experience a slow onset of these itchy rashes or bumps. These could be “Hives.” Whatever the reason, hives can be very uncomfortable, negatively impacting your sleep and quality of life.  

Hives, also known as urticaria, can go away quickly (acute hives) or may last longer (chronic hives). To learn more about hives, their types, causes, symptoms, diagnoses, and management, scroll down! 

What Are Hives?

Hives, medically known as urticaria, are a type of skin condition characterized by red, raised welts (bumps) on the skin. They are often a swelling on the surface of the skin caused by an allergic reaction. 

Allergic reactions occur when your immune system comes in contact with an allergen (proteins that are usually harmless to many but may cause an allergic reaction in sensitive people). Hives appear as small as a fingertip or as big as a dinner plate. Sometimes, the bumps may join together to form larger areas called plaques.  

Types of Hives 

There are several types of Hives, namely: 

Acute Hives 

• They have a sudden onset and usually last only a few weeks (less than six weeks).  

Chronic Hives

• They develop gradually over a period of time and last longer (more than six weeks). 
• They may even last up to months or years. 

Temperature-induced Hives 

• Temperature changes may induce hives if you are sensitive to cold temperatures, especially.  

Exercise-induced Hives 

• These may develop due to extreme physical activity. 

Solar Hives 

• Develop due to exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. 

Infection-induced Hives 

• Bacterial or viral infections can also induce hives in your body.  

What Causes Hives?

Your skin consists of immune cells called mast cells. When a foreign invader or allergen enters your body, these cells may get activated, releasing chemicals called histamine. Tiny blood vessels called capillaries may leak fluid and begin to accumulate in the skin, causing inflammation and a rash. As fluid continues to accumulate under the skin, small bumps form. 

Causes of hives depend on the type of condition, including: 

Acute 

• Allergic reactions to something you eat, like foods, drinks, medications, or something you touch.
• Foods that cause hives include:
• Nuts, eggs, seafood
• Kiwi banana or mango

• Medications that cause hives:

    Certain antibiotics

    NSAIDS (Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) like aspirin 

    Antihypertensives

Chronic 

• Viral or bacterial infections usually cause these. 
• Examples of bacterial infection:
• Strep throat
• Urinary tract infections.

• Examples of viral infection:

    Hepatitis

    Colds

• Other infections

    Autoimmune Conditions like lupus, diabetes, celiac disease 

    Hypothyroidism

    Intestinal parasites  

What Physical Factors Can Trigger Hives? 

Physical factors other than allergens can also be responsible for triggering hives. These include:  

• Extreme sun exposure
• Persistent scratching or rubbing of the skin
• Pressure, for example, using a tight belt
• Extreme temperature changes 
• Increased body temperature due to sweating, hot shower, or exercise 
• Release of adrenaline 

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Hives?

Depending on the type of condition, you may show different signs and symptoms of hives. These include: 

Acute

• Raised welts (bumps) may appear on your skin that may look reddish on lighter-colored skin.
• When you apply pressure, the hives may blanch (the center becomes pale).
• Your skin may be itchy
• Swelling may occur under your skin, causing puffiness (angioedema)
• You may also experience painful swelling of your lips, eyes, and inside your throat.

Chronic 

Chronic hives may be similar to acute hives; however, there could be certain differences. Chronic hives:

• Can change sizes and shapes
• May appear, disappear, and reappear at least every few days 
• It may occur after exercise, heat exposure, or due to stress  

How Are Hives Diagnosed?

Your dermatologist (a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the skin, hair, and nails) can easily diagnose hives by examining your skin.  

However, your doctor may recommend allergy tests to determine the cause. These include: 

Skin Tests (Skin Prick Test)

• Here, the doctor will use different allergens on your skin. 
• You are allergic to the substance if the skin swells and turns red. 

Blood Tests

• Your doctor will draw your blood sample to check for specific antibodies (produced to fight allergies).
• Too many antibiotics may lead to the development of hives and swellings).

How Are Hives Managed?

The best approach to treating hives depends on the cause and type of the condition.  

Acute Hives 

These types of hives usually disappear on their own within a few days. However, treatment may include:

• Antihistamines in the form of topical creams or oral pills.
• Antiseptic creams to reduce inflammation
• Steroids to reduce swelling 

Severe forms of acute hives may require a prescription of epinephrine in the form of an auto-injector. 

Chronic Hives

This hive may not resolve on its own and may require medical intervention. Antihistamines should be taken regularly until the symptoms resolve. 

Home Remedies 

Several at-home tips can help reduce hives symptoms. These include:

• Using a cool compress to ease itchiness
• Use a soothing lotion or cream to get relief from the burning sensation
• Wearing loose, light, cotton clothing 
• Avoid scratching
• Choosing appropriate soaps and detergents for sensitive skin 

How Can You Prevent Hives?

You can effectively prevent hives by adopting several preventive measures, such as:

• Noting down a list of any particular triggers of hives 
• Avoiding known and newly discovered triggers
• Taking an antihistamine when the amount of known triggers is high 
• Avoiding extreme changes in temperature
• Preventing exposure to excess sun 
• Reducing exposure to airborne allergens 
• Be wary of what you eat 
• Do not overstrain yourself with any physical activity 

Bottom Line 

Hives, commonly known as urticaria, are a type of skin rash characterized by itchy, irritating red welts or bumps on different parts of the body. They may result from an allergy, underlying health condition, or other triggers. Hives may either be short-lived (acute) or long-lasting ( chronic) and often require treatment using a suitable antihistamine. 

If you notice any allergens triggering an allergic reaction and causing hives, it is better to avoid them. If hives are affecting your quality of life, consult a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment.