How do you sleep with itchy hives

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.

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.

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Hives are usually caused by an allergic reaction to something that you have encountered or swallowed. When you have an allergic reaction, your body begins to release histamines into your blood. Histamines are chemicals your body produces in an attempt to defend itself against infection and other outside intruders.

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 caused by factors such as pollen, medications, food, animal dander, and insect bites.

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 half an hour to a day. Hives may turn white when pressed. Sometimes the hives may change shape or form together and create a larger, raised area.

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 accompanied by breathing difficulties, nausea or vomiting, severe swelling, and dizziness. Call 911 or your local emergency services immediately if you suspect youre experiencing anaphylaxis.

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 can last between weeks to several months or years.

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 underlying health problem, such as:

• 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 several hours to up to a week or two. If the hives are the result of an allergic reaction, they may last longer and require medical treatment. In some cases, chronic hives can last for months or even years. Talk with a doctor if you experience hives that dont go away on their own.

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.

Whats the Difference Between Shingles and Hives?

Although shingles and hives may look alike, the appearance and location of your rash can give clues on the underlying cause.

Shingles usually causes a painful and itchy rash. Reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus causes shingles. This is the same virus that causes chickenpox.

Hives is another condition that can cause an itchy rash. Its characterized by raised welts that can range from small to large. An immune response to a foreign substance triggers the condition.

Read on to learn more about the similarities and differences between these two conditions.

Shingles and hives can cause similar rashes. Here are the typical symptoms of each.

Shingles symptoms

The most common symptom of shingles is a rash on one side, most commonly on your torso. It can occur anywhere, including your face.

A few days before the rash appears, you may experience:

When the rash appears, it usually appears as a strip of small blisters. The blisters usually scab over within 710 days and heal within 24 weeks.

Other symptoms may include:

Hives symptoms

Hives is characterized by raised bumps or patches that:

• can be large or small
• can appear anywhere
• appear in one area or across your body
• itch, sting, or burn
• look red or pink on light skin or purplish on dark skin

Here are some examples of both shingles and hives.

These are the causes and triggers for shingles and hives.

Shingles causes and triggers

Shingles is caused by a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus that also causes chickenpox. This virus remains dormant in your nervous system until your immune system can no longer suppress it. The virus is most commonly reactivated in adults over age 65 years.

Potential triggers for shingles include:

• stress
• immunosuppressant medications
• development of other illnesses
• cancer or cancer treatment

Hives causes and triggers

Hives results from an immune response to a particular trigger. Exposure to your triggers activates white blood cells called mast cells and basophils, which leads to the release of chemicals like histamine and prostaglandin that cause your symptoms.

Potential triggers include:

• certain foods
• contact with plants, animals, or latex
• cold exposure
• emotional stress
• spicy food
• hot, sweaty skin
• medication side effects
• insect bites and stings
• infections
• wearing itchy and tight clothing
• immune system problems

The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) recommends seeing a dermatologist within 3 days of developing shingles.

Its important to get prompt medical attention if you develop shingles in a sensitive area like your genitals or face.

The National Health Service (NHS) recommends seeing a doctor about hives if:

• your symptoms do not improve after 2 days
• youre worried about your childs hives
• the rash is spreading
• you have recurrent hives
• you have a high fever or feeling of unwellness
• you have swelling under your skin that can indicate angioedema

Medical emergency

Call emergency medical services or go to the nearest emergency room if you or somebody youre with develops signs of a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. This includes:

• swelling in your throat, tongue, or mouth
• fast breathing or trouble breathing
• throat tightness
• difficulty swallowing
• pale, blue, or gray lips, tongue, or skin, which may be easiest to see on your palms or soles if you have a darker skin tone

A doctor can diagnose hives by looking at your swelling and asking about your medical history. They may order additional tests like blood tests or allergy skin tests.

The doctor will likely be able to identify shingles based on the distinct shape of your rash. They may request a skin scraping for lab testing.

Heres a look at the treatment for shingles and hives.

Shingles treatment

A mild shingles rash may not need treatment. According to the NHS, you may be offered antiviral tablets if you have:

• a weak immune system
• a moderate or severe rash
• a rash affecting areas other than your abdomen, back, or chest

Learn more about shingles treatment.

Hives treatment

You may not need treatment if you have mild hives. For moderate or severe cases, your doctors may prescribe:

Learn more about home remedies for hives.

If youve already had chickenpox, minimizing stress and supporting your immune system can help prevent the reactivation of the virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the vaccine Shingrix for people over age 50 years.

You can prevent hives by avoiding substances that you know trigger your symptoms.

Here are some frequently asked questions people have about shingles and hives.

What does shingles look like at the start?

Shingles often starts as a tingling or painful sensation on your skin. A rash on one side usually appears a few days later, most often on your torso.

What could be mistaken for shingles?

Other conditions that can cause similar symptoms as shingles include:

Can you get hives after shingles?

Since hives and shingles are two distinct skin conditions, you could develop both at the same time or one after the other. A common reason for hives being associated with shingles would be due to an immune reaction to a treatment for shingles, such as a reaction to a topical shingles treatment.

Shingles usually causes a stripe of small blisters on one side of your torso but can develop anywhere on your body. Hives can cause welts and discoloration over one body part or your entire body.

Its recommended that you get treatment within 3 days of developing shingles since this is when antiviral medications are most effective.

Hives is a rash caused by an immune reaction, often due to an allergic reaction. Its critical to get emergency medical attention for hives if you develop symptoms of anaphylaxis.