Do hives get worse when you touch them
Hives: Signs and symptoms
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Find a DermatologistYou can search by location, condition, and procedure to find the dermatologist thats right for you.
What is a dermatologist?A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatologists care for people of all ages.
10 ways to get relief from chronic hives
Biosimilars: 14 FAQsFind answers to questions patients ask about this newer treatment option, including, Whats involved in switching from a biologic to a biosimilar?
Featured
Laser hair removalYou can expect permanent results in all but one area. Do you know which one?
Scar treatmentIf you want to diminish a noticeable scar, know these 10 things before having laser treatment.
BotoxIt can smooth out deep wrinkles and lines, but the results arent permanent. Heres how long botox tends to last.
Featured
Find a DermatologistYou can search by location, condition, and procedure to find the dermatologist thats right for you.
What is a dermatologist?A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatologists care for people of all ages.
Hives Symptoms: What They Look Like
Hives are characterized by red or pale-colored welts on the skin, which typically come and go throughout the day, says Sourab Choudhury, DO, a dermatologist and the chief medical officer at the Dermatology Specialists, a private dermatology practice in New York City. Sometimes they itch, burn, or sting.
Usually the welts will be surrounded by clear edges. They may look similar to bug bites, but hives generally will appear and disappear more quickly. They may itch, sometimes severely, and theyre not always the same size or shape. They may be as small as the tip of a pen or as large as a dinner plate. (4) When you press the center of a hive bump on the skin, it likely will turn from red to white, which is known as blanching. (2,3)
Hives may appear on the body grouped together and take over a large area of the skin, or as a couple of individual welts that show up here and there. (4) They can appear anywhere on the body, though some people get them in the same spot over and over again (usually as a result of a specific trigger). (4)
Generally, youll know you have hives simply by seeing the hives themselves. If you experience other symptoms, such as swelling in the eyes, lips, or inside of the throat, or if you have trouble breathing, you should call 911 or see a doctor immediately, says Sapna Palep, MD, a dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology in New York City. These symptoms indicate you may be experiencing a serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. (5)
Hives: Pictures, Causes, and How to Treat Them
Hives typically occur as an allergic response to something in your environment or something you ate. But they may sometimes happen because of an underlying health issue.
Hives, also known as urticaria, are itchy, raised welts that are found on the skin. Theyre usually red, pink, or flesh colored on lighter skin and may be flesh colored or slightly lighter or darker than your skin tone on brown or black skin.
Sometimes they sting or hurt. In most cases, hives are caused by an allergic reaction to a medication or food or are a reaction to an irritant in the environment.
In many cases, hives are an acute (temporary) problem that may be alleviated with allergy medications. Most rashes go away on their own. However, chronic (ongoing) cases, as well as hives accompanied by a severe allergic reaction, are larger medical concerns.
Hives are usually caused by an
In some people, histamines can cause swelling, itching, and many of the symptoms that are experienced with hives. In terms of allergens, hives can be
Hives might also be caused by circumstances besides allergies. Its not uncommon for people to experience hives as the result of stress, tight clothes, exercise, illnesses, or infections.
Its also possible to develop hives as the result of excessive exposure to hot or cold temperatures or from irritation due to excessive sweating. Because there are several potential triggers, many times the actual cause of hives cant be determined.
People who are known to have allergies are more likely to get hives. You may also be at risk of developing hives if youre taking medication or if youre unknowingly exposed to things you may be allergic to, such as food or pollen. If youre already ill with an infection or a health condition, you may be more vulnerable to developing hives.
The most noticeable symptom of hives is the welts that appear on the skin. Welts may be red but can also be the same color as your skin. They can be small and round, ring-shaped, or large and of random shape. Hives are itchy, and they tend to appear in batches on the affected part of the body. They can grow larger, change shape, and spread.
Hives may disappear or reappear over the course of the outbreak. Individual hives welts can last anywhere from
Hives can occur in a variety of places on the body. Call 911 or get medical attention immediately if you develop a hives outbreak around your throat or on your tongue or have trouble breathing along with hives.
Hives can occur in response to an allergic reaction or may not have an identifiable cause.
Allergic reactions
The most common causes of hives are allergic reactions. These can be caused by any allergen you might be sensitive to, including:
- foods (such as nuts, milk, and eggs)
- pet dander
- pollen
- dust mites
- insect bites or stings
- medications (primarily antibiotics, cancer drugs, or ibuprofen)
Mild cases of hives caused by allergies are typically treated with long- or short-term allergy medications and avoidance of the trigger.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life threatening allergic reaction. In this condition, hives are often
Chronic hives
Chronic hives are ongoing cases that dont necessarily have an identifiable cause. Also called chronic urticaria, this condition is marked by recurring hives that can interfere with your daily life. Chronic cases
You may suspect chronic hives if you have welts that dont go away within 6 weeks. While not life threatening, this form of hives can be uncomfortable and difficult to treat. Chronic hives may also be a symptom of an
- an autoimmune disorder
- celiac disease
- lupus
- type 1 diabetes
- rheumatoid arthritis
- thyroid disease
Dermatographism
This form of acute hives is considered mild. Excessive scratching or continuous pressure on the skin causes it. Dermatographism usually clears up on its own in a short period of time without treatment.
Temperature-induced hives
Sometimes changes in temperature can induce hives in people who are sensitive to such changes. Cold-induced hives may occur from cold water or air exposure, while body heat from physical activity may cause exercise-induced hives. Exposure to sunlight or tanning beds may also bring about solar hives in some people.
Infection-induced hives
Both viral and bacterial infections can cause hives. Common bacterial infections causing hives include urinary tract infections and strep throat. Viruses that cause infectious mononucleosis (mono), hepatitis, and colds often cause hives.
The first step in getting treatment is to figure out if you actually have hives. In most cases, a doctor will be able to determine if you have hives from a physical exam. Your skin will show signs of the welts that are linked with hives.
A doctor may also perform blood tests or skin tests to find out what may have caused your hives especially if your hives were the result of an allergic reaction.
You may not need prescription treatment if youre experiencing a mild case of hives not related to allergies or other health conditions. In these circumstances, a doctor might suggest that you find temporary relief by:
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that needs to be treated immediately by a physician. If you think you may be experiencing anaphylaxis, contact 911 or your local emergency services.
Simple changes to your lifestyle may be able to help you prevent hives from reoccurring in the future. If you have allergies and you know which substances are likely to cause an allergic reaction, a doctor will suggest that you avoid any possible exposure to these factors. Allergy shots are another option that may help you reduce the risk of experiencing hives again.
Avoid being in high humidity areas or wearing tight clothing if you have recently had a hives outbreak.
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about hives.
Are hives contagious?
No, hives are not contagious and cant spread from one person to another.
Do hives mean Im allergic to something?
In many cases, hives are the result of an allergic reaction to something you have been exposed to, such as certain medications or pollen. It could also be caused by an infection, stress, or wearing clothes that are too tight. If you have hives that persist for more than a few days, contact a doctor to see if an allergy test is needed to determine the cause of your symptoms.
How long do hives last?
A hives outbreak can last anywhere from
Are there any home remedies for hives?
Yes, there are several home remedies that may help alleviate the symptoms of hives. Taking an antihistamine is one option, as well as taking a cool or lukewarm bath with colloidal oatmeal or baking soda. Avoid hot water, as this may aggravate the hives. Also, try to avoid any potential irritants or allergens that may have caused the hives in the first place.
Although hives can be itchy and uncomfortable, usually theyre not severe and will disappear after a period of time. However, be aware that as some hives go away, new ones may pop up.
Mild cases of hives are considered harmless. Hives can be dangerous if you are having a serious allergic reaction and your throat is swelling. Prompt treatment for a severe case of hives is important for a good outlook.
What Are Heat Hives And How Do You Get Rid Of Them?
The sweat we've all been sweating this hot, hot summer has been bad enough, but throw in heat hives and you might be looking forward to winter's chill. Here's the lowdown of what heat hives are and how to treat and prevent them.
So, what are heat hives?
Heat hives are red, itchy, burning bumps caused by an allergic reaction to the heat or stress, according to Hives.org. Heat hives, also referred to as cholinergic urticaria, occurs in people who are hypersensitive or extremely sensitive to heat or sweat. People with this condition often wonder why they itch when they exercise, or any time they seem to get hot.
areeya_ann via Getty Images
Hive central
Toronto dermatologist Dr. Afsaneh Alavi says that someone can also experience summer hives, also known as solar urticaria. Summer hives are related to sun exposure and result in red, itchy plaques or elevations on the skin. However, the doctor notes that there is another condition that is much more common than summer hives Polymorphous Light Eruption, which most people experience a few hours after being out in the sun.
"The difference is Polymorphous Light Eruption usually lasts many days after the exposure," says Dr. Alavi. "Summer hives tend to only last a few hours."
And healthcentral.com says that heat hives are different than 'prickly heat,' or heat rash. Prickly heat results from blocked sweat glands that cause a rash with small red raised spots usually on parts of the body that are covered by clothes. Prickly heat can also cause stinging or itchiness.
Who gets heat hives?
Heat hives can happen at any age, but the majority of cases develop during the teenage years throughout the early 20s, says Alavi. According to Hives.org, here is no difference in prevalence between men and women, races or geographic location. About 15 per cent of people suffer from chronic hives and/or heat hives, which can come and go often, or simply happen once and never again.
Dr. Alavi says females are more likely to develop summer hives, as well as those aged 35 and younger.
ooddysmile via Getty Images
What causes them?
Nerve fibres in your sweat glands react to the heat and sweat when your body temperature goes up. Like any allergy, once exposed to the allergen, your immune system releases histamines, causing an itchy or burning sensation on the skin. Hives from heat can also spread beyond the area initially affected.
Activities that raise your body temperature can prompt these rashes and intense burning sensation such as sun bathing, exercising, taking a hot shower, stress, hot climates, tight, clingy clothing or bandages.
You may be more likely to get these hives if you have eczema, asthma, or other allergies such as hay fever, or if you get hives for other reasons, such as a certain food, pressure on your skin, or cold weather.
What do hives feel like?
Red, burning, itchy skin irritation is the most common symptom of heat hives according to Hives.org. Heat hives are itchy, tingly, and warm. They're usually small red bumps with flares or appear as raised welts or bumps with circles around them called wheals.
Hives can break out anywhere on your body, but usually they show up on your chest, face, upper back, and arms. Often, the bumps are close together. Your skin can look swollen and blotchy, or you may just look flushed.
Heat hives often pop up suddenly and can last about 30 minutes to an hour before they fade away.
According to WebMD, more severe symptoms such as headaches, diarrhea, wheezing or shortness of breath, cramps, extra saliva in your mouth, lightheadedness, low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat and other physical side effects can also accompany the rash.
Can you treat them at home?
Over-the-counterantihistamines can be used to reduce an allergic reaction. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice about which to try. Antihistamine creams work well and will control the itch, says Dr. Alavi.
If home remedies arent helpful, talk to your doctor about a prescription antihistamine, steroid, or corticosteroid. These medicines are sometimes prescribed for occasional flare ups of heat hives, severe allergic reactions, hives that dont improve when you cool your body temperature, or to suppress the immune system and prevent hives.
You might think anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen would soothe your hives. But these medications actually worsen the reaction, so resist the urge to take them if you break out in hives.
DmitryLityagin via Getty Images
How can you avoid them?
If you notice heat hives appear during certain activities or in stressful environments, try to avoid these situations when possible. If you enjoy being out in the sun or exercising, come prepared with a cool towel or hive medication in case an episode strikes. Tight clothing plus heat can be a breeding ground for heat hives. When heading into a warm environment, wear loose clothing to prevent your body temperature from spiking.
Avoiding triggers is usually the best approach so people looking to avoid triggers for cholinergic urticaria should avoid over-heating during exercise, spicy food, very hot showers and baths and prolonged exposure to heat.
People looking for lifestyle management should look for ways to reduce and manage their stress and anger, such as through meditation or journaling.
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