Do hives pop up anywhere
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 (Urticaria)
What are hives?
Hives, or urticaria, are flat red welts that can appear anywhere on the skin and usually itch. Hives often occur as an allergic reaction to something eaten or something that has contacted the skin. Foods, medicines, and plants are common causes, but sun exposure, stress, infections, and autoimmune diseases have also been known to cause hives.
Symptoms include an itchy, stinging pink rash of slightly swollen skin. The rash may wax and wane in severity. Acute hives typically resolve within six weeks, but chronic hives (urticaria) can persist for months or years.
Hives often resolve on their own, especially in children. Otherwise, treatment for acute hives involves oral antihistamine medications to help relieve the itching and stinging. Chronic hives that do not improve with antihistamines may be treated additionally with corticosteroids, antibiotics, and other stronger medicines. A study found that 35% of people with chronic hives, are symptom free within one year, with another 29% having some reduction of symptoms.
You can safely treat this condition on your own as long as you does not develop trouble breathing. Any antihistamine (like Zyrtec, Clarinex, etc) works.
What causes hives that come and go daily?
Some people experience a flare-up of hives that goes away on its own. Other people may have hives that come and go daily.
Hives are itchy, raised bumps on the skin. Doctors diagnose chronic hives in people who experience them for at least 6 weeks. Each hive typically lasts for 24 hours before disappearing. Usually, the condition does not have an identifiable cause, but sometimes it does.
Some people experience chronic hives due to an underlying condition. Therefore, it is important for individuals to speak with a doctor about hives that keep returning.
Keep reading to learn more about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of hives that come and go daily.
Chronic hives is a condition that causes hives that keep coming back. Each one lasts less than 24 hours but, as old hives fade, new ones appear. If this continues for 6 weeks or longer, a doctor will diagnose chronic hives. Acute hives lasts less than 6 weeks.
The symptoms of both acute and chronic hives are the same. A person will have welts that come and go. In some cases, symptoms can hinder daily activities and impair sleep.
Chronic hives look identical to acute hives. In both cases, they can flare up and resolve, but chronic hives keep coming back for 6 weeks or longer and typically occur daily.
Hives are itchy, raised welts on the skin that may be red or the same color as a persons skin. Hives can develop anywhere on the body, move around, and change shape. They can also appear and disappear suddenly.
Hives usually do not break the skin, but bleeding can occur if a person scratches them.
Chronic hives can happen for various reasons. In most cases, however, it is not possible to identify the trigger.
Chronic idiopathic urticaria
The medical name for chronic hives that have no clear trigger is chronic idiopathic urticaria.
According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD), the immune system is overactive in about half of people who have chronic idiopathic urticaria. Doctors consider these cases autoimmune, as they stem from the immune system attacking healthy tissues.
However, some
Bacterial infections associated with chronic hives include:
Viral infections associated with the condition include:
Parasitic infections associated with chronic hives include:
Autoimmune conditions
Some cases of chronic hives may stem from an underlying autoimmune disease.
Conditions associated with chronic hives include:
Research suggests that
Physical stimuli
Chronic hives can stem from physical stimulation, such as scratching or rubbing the skin. This is known as physical urticaria or dermatographism. The most common trigger is scratching or rubbing the skin firmly. The hives are not always itchy.
Other physical triggers may include:
- exercise
- cold temperatures
- hot temperatures
- sunlight
- vibration
- pressure
Allergies
As with acute hives, chronic hives can also occur due to an allergy. However, unlike acute hives, this is a
Some common allergens that can trigger hives include:
- certain foods
- food additives and preservatives
- latex
- medications
Reactions to medications can happen at any time after someone starts taking one. Some common triggers include:
Diagnosing chronic hives may begin with consulting a primary care physician, an allergist, or a dermatologist. They will examine the hives and ask the person questions to rule out common causes, such as a medication reaction.
A doctor may order diagnostic tests to check for other conditions that could be causing symptoms. This could include allergy testing, blood tests to detect inflammation markers, or tests for celiac disease or thyroid problems.
If the hives are not always apparent, it may help for a person to take photographs to show a doctor at the appointment. Keeping a diary of when the hives appear and any possible contributing factors may also help. People can track:
- food they eat
- medication they take
- exposure to physical stimuli, such as the sun, friction, or pressure on the skin
In cases where there is no clear cause, treatment focuses on managing the hives.
A doctor may recommend the
- Second-generation H1-antihistamines: This is the first-line treatment for chronic hives, and includes drugs such as cetirizine and loratadine. Routine use of first-generation H1 antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), is not recommended by doctors due to sedating side effects.
- Omalizumab (Xolair): If symptoms do not respond to the first-line treatment, practitioners may add Xolair for a second-line treatment. It is a monoclonal antibody, which blocks the action of substances in the body that produce hives.
- Cyclosporine (Gengraf): Doctors may prescribe this when someone does not respond to a combination of an H1-antihistamine and omalizumab.
- Corticosteroids: Short-term use of these anti-inflammatory drugs may be an option to alleviate flare-ups of chronic hives. They are not suitable for long term use due to the risk of cataracts and other possible adverse effects.
If a person knows the trigger, avoiding it can help manage symptoms.
Chronic hives can go away. One study found that 35% of participants with chronic hives had no symptoms after 1 year, and another 29% experienced a reduction in symptoms during this time.
Among individuals with idiopathic chronic hives, 48% experienced remission within 3 years. However, only 16% of those with physical hives experienced remission within 3 years.
If a person has flare-ups of hives for 6 weeks or longer, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends visiting a board-certified allergist, dermatologist, or primary care doctor.
If someone experiences severe hives inside their mouth or airways that affect breathing, call 911 or the number of the nearest emergency department. This could be a sign of a severe allergic reaction, or anaphylaxis, which can make it hard to breathe and can be life threatening.
Here are some questions people often ask about chronic hives.
Why am I getting chronic hives?
In many cases, it is not clear what is causing hives. However, they may be linked to allergies and some immune conditions, such as lupus and celiac disease. Physical stimuli for instance, heat, pressure and vibration may also contribute.
Will chronic hives ever go away?
Chronic hives can go away over time, or symptoms may improve. However this does not happen for everyone. If hives go away, they can also come back in some cases.
How can I get rid of chronic hives?
It might not be possible to get rid of chronic hives, but treatment options such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and other drugs can help manage symptoms.
Hives that come and go daily for at least 6 weeks are chronic hives. Most cases do not have an identifiable cause, but it is associated with an infection, autoimmune condition, allergy, or physical cause in some people.
Physical hives can occur due to exercise, vibration, or exposure to hot or cold temperatures. However, chronic idiopathic urticaria when there is no known cause is more common.
Chronic hives can affect a persons quality of life, but doctors can prescribe medications to help manage the symptoms.
Hives can pop up out of nowhere; triggers can be difficult to pinpoint
Q: I had a bad case of hives. I cant figure out what caused them, and my doctor said after I finish the six-day course of corticosteroids she prescribed, they might come back. What else can I do?
Hives can appear out of nowhere suddenly, Stillion said. A lot of the times they are the result of an allergic reaction to a certain allergen, or they can pop up for unknown reasons.
Hives show up as smooth, raised bumps that are referred to as wheals.
Typically, people feel really itchy with them. Sometimes they can burn or sting, Stillion said.
They can show up anywhere on the body.
According to a report in the medical journal Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, 15 percent to 24 percent of the U.S. population will experience hives at some point in their lives.
Triggers, explained Shelly Smith, a doctor of nursing practice at Bon Secours Powhatan Medical Associates, can include medications, insect stings, food allergies and skin contact with certain perfumes or detergents, among other things. Some people get hives from exposure to cold.
Unfortunately, in many cases, the trigger cannot be determined, Smith said.
The actual wheals, Stillion said, can be really small, like the tip of your finger, or really large, like a small dinner plate in size. They can actually join together and look like large plaques or areas.
Treatment is to try to identify and eliminate the trigger or exposure and medication.
Once hives have appeared, taking over-the-counter antihistamines including Benadryl, which can cause drowsiness, or nonsedating antihistamines such as Claritin and Zyrtec, can sometimes help, experts said.
If the hives persist and are severe, doctors sometimes prescribe a short course of corticosteroids.
If the hives start to affect breathing and swallowing, a condition called angioedema, its a medical emergency.
If urticaria is associated with swelling of your mouth, lips or tongue or associated with shortness of breath, you should seek emergency care immediately as these are symptoms of a more serious allergic reaction, Smith said.
Chronic hives can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, so health care providers might order additional tests.
Patients also might be referred to an allergy specialist or other specialist for further evaluation.
When I used to do urgent care, it was not uncommon to see one or two cases of hives a shift, Stillion said.
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.
