Does warm water help hives

15 Ways to Get Rid of Hives

You may be able to relieve hives with home remedies, including aloe vera or an oatmeal bath, and over-the-counter products. But a doctor may need to treat severe or chronic hives.

Hives (urticaria) are a rash on your body. Identifying what triggered your hives is crucial to preventing them from happening again. If you can identify the trigger, you can avoid contact with it.

Although hives are often associated with allergic reactions, they can also occur due to:

Hives generally fade within 24 hours and dont require treatment.

However, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• dizziness
• swelling in your throat or face
• difficulty breathing

These may indicate a severe allergic reaction and require emergency care.

If your hives are milder, continue reading to learn how to ease any discomfort and speed up the healing process.

Some remedies and other products may cause a skin reaction. Its best to do a skin patch test before applying.

In most cases, home remedies can help you find relief. Here are a few ways to soothe itchy skin:

Use a cold compress

Applying something cool to your skin can help relieve irritation and swelling. To do this, grab a bag of frozen veggies or wrap a handful of ice in a towel and apply it to the affected area for up to 10 minutes. Repeat as needed throughout the day.

Take a bath with an anti-itch solution

There are several products you can add to a bath to relieve itching. These include colloidal oatmeal or one or two handfuls of baking soda.

Learn more: How to make an oatmeal bath

Avoid products that may irritate the skin

Certain soaps may dry your skin and cause more itching when you have hives. Make sure to use a mild soap thats marketed for sensitive skin. These typically omit fragrance and irritating chemicals.

You should also avoid using irritating moisturizers or lotions. When in doubt, opt for a formula that targets sensitive skin, such as these options. Applying immediately after bathing may also help soothe the itch.

Keep things cool

Heat can make itchiness worse. Wear lightweight clothing and keep the temperature in your house cool and comfortable. Avoid sitting in direct sunlight.

If home remedies arent relieving your symptoms but you arent ready to head to the pharmacy you may want to give a few natural solutions a try.

Natural remedies arent regulated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so use them with caution.

Witch hazel

The natural tannins found in the herb witch hazel can help relieve irritation. Despite this, it may cause contact dermatitis. Its best to test it on a small patch of skin before applying it all over.

You can apply witch hazel to your skin like a mask a few times each day. Let it sit on the affected areas for about 20 minutes, and then rinse it off.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a natural anti-inflammatory. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, applying it to the skin can help people with acne, herpes simplex, psoriasis, and other conditions affecting the skin. It is typically well-tolerated.

But, as with any new product, its important to do a skin patch test before application, especially if you have sensitive skin. Some aloe products may also have added fragrance or other chemicals, so be sure to read the label.

You can apply topical aloe vera to your hives as needed, likely a few times a day. Be sure to follow any instructions on the package.

If the above remedies arent enough to help your hives, over-the-counter (OTC) treatments may help relieve your symptoms. Not only can OTC options relieve itching and irritation, but they can also target your bodys histamine response, which is what causes hives.

Calamine lotion

Products containing calamine can help relieve itching by cooling your skin. You can apply calamine lotion directly to your skin:

1. Make sure you mix the lotion before using it by shaking the container.
2. Put some calamine lotion on a cotton pad or cloth.
3. Apply the pad or cloth directly to the hives and let dry.

You can treat the hives with calamine lotion as necessary.

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

This oral antihistamine can reduce rash and other allergy symptoms like itching by working from the inside out.

Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the package. Benadryl usually kicks in within an hour and should start to relieve your symptoms the same day.

Benadryl may cause drowsiness.

Fexofenadine (Allegra), loratadine (Claritin), and cetirizine (Zyrtec)

These antihistamines typically come in 12- or 24-hour formulas to provide extended relief. Theyre also less likely to cause drowsiness than diphenhydramine.

You may need to adjust the dosage to effectively treat hives, so talk with a doctor or pharmacist. They can advise you on how much to take and how often.

If youre experiencing severe or chronic hives, you may need prescription medication. Talk with a doctor about your symptoms and how you can best find relief.

Common prescription options include:

Prednisone (Deltasone)

This corticosteroid is taken orally. You should only use it for a short period of time as directed by a doctor. Corticosteroids can have side effects, especially if taken for extended periods of time. Side effects can include:

• elevated blood pressure
• elevated eye pressure (glaucoma)
• swelling
• weight gain
• immunosuppression, which means you may get infections more easily

To reduce side effects, take oral corticosteroids at a lower dose and transition to corticosteroid creams with your doctors supervision.

Omalizumab (Xolair)

This medication must be injected under the skin. This option is only available if your hives are chronic and dont respond to antihistamines. Common side effects include:

• headache
• dizziness
• inner ear pain
• cold symptoms

Dapsone (Aczone)

This antibiotic is available topically and as an oral medication. This medication can treat inflammation due to hives or other skin conditions that are caused by bacterial infection. Its important to take all antibiotics as prescribed.

Antibiotics only help relieve symptoms caused by a bacterial infection.

Leukotriene-receptor antagonists

This nonsteroidal treatment option is taken orally. These drugs should be used only after steroid treatment and antihistamines have been unsuccessful. There is not a lot of quality research to support their use for hives. Common side effects include:

• headache
• nausea
• cough
• low fever

If your symptoms worsen or last longer than a couple of days, you may want to talk with a doctor. They can identify the cause and provide medication to help relieve your symptoms. Understanding your triggers may help prevent future outbreaks.

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Oatmeal bath for hives: Benefits, steps, and other treatments

Oatmeal baths have soothing properties that can help relieve itchiness and inflammation due to hives.

While hives are typically harmless and short-lived, they can be very uncomfortable for some individuals. Natural remedies, such as an oatmeal bath, may help alleviate the itching and discomfort that hives cause.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of oatmeal baths for hives, the steps to prepare and take one, and alternative treatment options.

A 2018 study suggests that colloidal oatmeal contains several components that could benefit the skin and provide relief from hives. Their effectiveness is largely due to oats containing compounds known as avenanthramides.

Avenanthramides have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce skin inflammation and relieve itching. Additionally, oatmeal forms a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture and promoting skin healing.

While oatmeal may not cure the underlying cause of hives, it can provide comfort and reduce the urge to scratch, preventing potential complications, such as skin infections.

To prepare an oatmeal bath for hives, someone can use either rolled oats or colloidal oatmeal. Both options are effective, but colloidal oatmeal (finely ground oats) dissolves more easily in water, creating a smoother bath.

A person can buy colloidal oatmeal in most drugstores, or online. Many stores sell oatmeal bath products specifically for soothing irritated skin. However, using plain rolled oats can prove just as beneficial.

Ingredients:

• colloidal oatmeal or rolled oats
• water

1. Prepare the bath: Fill a bathtub with warm water. Avoid hot water, as it can worsen itching and dry out the skin.
2. Add the oats: If using colloidal oatmeal, simply pour about 1 cup of the oats into the bathwater and stir until it dissolves. If using rolled oats, either blend them to a fine powder or put them in a cheesecloth or muslin bag and tie it securely. Hang the bag under the running faucet or let it steep in the bathwater, periodically squeezing the bag to release the contents. This process may take a bit longer than using colloidal oatmeal, but the results can be equally effective.
3. Soak: Once the oats have dispersed in the water, soak in the oatmeal bath, gently rubbing the oat-infused water onto the skin. Soak for around 15 minutes. Be sure to avoid using soap during this bath, as it can potentially irritate the skin further.
4. Pat dry: After the oatmeal bath, gently pat the skin dry with a soft, clean towel. Avoid rubbing the skin vigorously, as this can worsen irritation.

The frequency of oatmeal baths for hives may vary from person to person, depending on the severity of the condition and individual preferences. However, as a general guideline, someone can try taking an oatmeal bath once a day, or as necessary until the hives improve.

It is essential to monitor how the skin responds and adjust the frequency accordingly. If the hives persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Oatmeal baths do not just treat hives. Oatmeals soothing, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties can be beneficial for various skin conditions and irritations, including:

While oatmeal baths can provide relief, they do not cure hives. To address the underlying cause, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. In some cases, antihistamines or other medications may be necessary to manage hives effectively. Some other treatments for hives may include:

1. Antihistamines: Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines can provide rapid relief from itching and swelling.
2. Topical steroids: For severe hives, topical corticosteroid creams can help reduce inflammation and itching.
3. Avoid triggers: Identifying and avoiding triggers that cause hives, such as certain foods or medications, can prevent recurrences.
4. Cold compresses: Applying cold compresses to affected areas can provide temporary relief from itching and discomfort.
5. Prescription medications: In severe cases, a healthcare professional may prescribe stronger medications or treatments to manage hives effectively.

The outlook for individuals with acute hives is generally positive, as most cases resolve within a few days to a few weeks.

However, if a person experiences chronic or severe hives, they should consult an allergist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Although chronic hives can impact a persons quality of life and be difficult to manage, most cases of chronic hives resolve within 5 years.

Oatmeal baths offer a simple and natural way to ease itching and discomfort caused by hives.

Remember to follow the steps to prepare and take an oatmeal bath, and adjust the frequency based on the skins response.

If a person has persistent or severe hives, consult a healthcare professional for expert guidance and treatment options.

8 Easy Home Remedies for Treating Urticaria/Hives

Urticaria is an annoying allergic condition that can be extremely troubling at times. If you are suffering from urticaria, you are probably aware of how it can significantly impair ones sleep cycle and overall quality of life.

According to an article published in the American Family Physician, urticaria has a lifetime prevalence of 2o percent. Urticaria (also referred to as hives or idiopathic urticaria) is a reaction on the skin caused due to certain allergens that you either encounter or consume. When you are exposed to an allergen, your body releases an acidic protein called histamine that is responsible for the intense puristic wheals, itching, inflammation, redness, and swelling in the affected area(s).

Since histamines are the primary culprits for causing the allergic reaction, it is quite possible that your medical practitioner will recommend an antihistamine as the first line of treatment for hives. However, several other natural alternative medicines can alleviate the symptoms of urticaria and reduce its risk in the long term.

Here are eight hand-picked home remedies that have proven to be effective in managing urticaria/hives.

1. Apply a Paste Made of Apple Cider Vinegar and Corn Starch

Apple cider vinegar possesses strong antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties that can help reduce the itching and inflammation associated with urticaria. Because apple cider vinegar is made of apples fermented by yeast and bacteria, it is also rich in probiotics that can help reduce hives.

Prepare a paste of apple cider vinegar and corn starch, and apply on the affected area after a tepid-water bath as the skin can easily absorb the blend. Corn starch also helps soothe skin irritation and welts.

You can also add two cups of apple cider vinegar to a bathtub of warm water. Soak in it once a day for about 20 minutes daily.

Follow any one of the above-mentioned methods daily until you see a marked improvement in your condition.

2. Include Turmeric in Your Daily Diet

The golden spice, turmeric possesses antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiseptic, and anti-microbial properties that help alleviate the distressing effects of hives. These therapeutic properties of turmeric are attributed to its chemical component, cur-cumin.

Add a teaspoon of turmeric powder to a glass of warm milk. Mix them well and consume this concoction once daily until your eruptions heal. You can add honey to enhance its taste. You can also make turmeric a part of your daily diet by including it in your everyday meals.

3. Soothe the Inflamed Area with Ginger

The inflammation caused due to hives causes a sudden rush of blood in the capillaries. This leads to swelling and redness. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger improves the circulation around the inflamed area by targeting the genes and enzymes responsible for the pain and swelling.

Boil one-fourth cup brown sugar, a tablespoon of crushed ginger, and three-fourth cup vinegar together for three minutes. Cool this concoction and dilute it with water before dabbing it on the welts. Apply this brew three to four times a day until your skin heals completely.

Alternatively, you can chew on a piece of ginger or consume ginger tea on a regular basis.

4. Use Baking Soda to Reduce Irritation

Hives are acidic in nature, while baking soda (or sodium bicarbonate) is alkaline, which helps neutralize the acid. Baking soda is available in almost every kitchen and is an extremely common and effective home remedy for treating hives. It possesses potent anti-inflammatory features that can reduce swelling and inflammation.

Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with enough water to make a thick paste. Apply this paste on the rashes and welts and leave it on for about twenty minutes. Do this once daily until the hives are gone.

5. Apply a Cold Compress of Mint Solution

Mint possesses strong antioxidant properties that help in soothing the burning and itching sensation on the skin. The menthol present in this herb offers a cooling effect, and this makes mint an amazing herb for suppressing hives.

Crush 4-5 mint leaves and add these to a cup of boiling water. Once the solution is at room temperature, place it in the refrigerator to cool it down further. Soak a soft towel in this cool mint solution and dab it on the affected area for about 15 minutes. Repeat this three to four times daily until you feel relieved.

6. Consume Licorice Root Tea Regularly

Licorice root is proven to possess anti-inflammatory properties similar to those found in steroids. It has been used for centuries to treat a wide variety of ailments including chronic urticaria.

Crush a handful of licorice roots and infuse them in a cup of hot water for about five to ten minutes. Strain and consume this solution instantly. Licorice root is naturally sweet to taste, so you may not feel the need to add sugar/honey. Consume licorice root tea two to three times daily to soothe the inflammation and pain associated with urticaria.

7. Use Chamomile Tea to Alleviate Stress-Induced Urticaria

In numerous cases, it is tough to determine the underlying cause of hives. In such cases, it is often seen that even a stressful event can trigger erratic skin welts.

Chamomile is a wonder-herb that offers much-needed relief in stress-induced urticaria. It is one of the most ancient herbs known to mankind. Owing to its soothing properties, chamomile has been trusted to relieve stress and anxiety for centuries.

Brew a few chamomile leaves or tea bags for about ten minutes in hot water. You can consume the tea as is or add honey/sugar to enhance its taste. Consume three to four cups of chamomile tea daily to help relieve stress-induced hives.

8. Apply Oatmeal Compress to the Affected Area

If you think oatmeal can only offer you dietary fiber, you need to think again! Uncooked oatmeal can help relieve the persistent itching sensation in urticaria. The anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of oatmeal work well for relief against hives. Use this remedy in conjunction with any of the other treatments mentioned above to experience faster resolution of symptoms.

Make an oatmeal compress to reduce the itching in the affected area. Place a handful of oatmeal on a piece of cotton cloth placed in a bowl. Pour a little warm water over it and let the oatmeal soak for about two to three minutes. Tie the cloth to form a warm compress and dab it on the eruptions. Use this compress daily in your bath to reduce inflammation.

Urticaria can be extremely uncomfortable, especially when it develops suddenly and unexpectedly. This condition can ruthlessly affect your normal life. Fortunately, you can depend on Mother Nature for simple remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms and effects of hives. The aforementioned home remedies will help you better manage the breakouts and reduce the risk of developing urticaria in the long term.