What triggers hives
7 Surprising Triggers of Chronic Hives
1. Tooth decay and other infections
Heres an additional reason to brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly: In a study published in April 2013 in the journal Advances in Dermatology and Allergology, researchers found that tooth decay and several other infections can play a significant role in the development of chronic hives. Bacterial infections (such as urinary tract infections and strep throat) and viral infections (such as hepatitis and norovirus, a common cause of stomach flu) were also found to be triggers of chronic hives.
Also, if you have chronic hives, you may want to ask your doctor about getting tested for the antigen Heliobacter pylori, which is associated with chronic hives. In a study published in February 2015 in the journal Advances in Dermatology and Allergology, a third of chronic hives patients were also infected with H. pylori. Whats more, about 92 percent of those with both hives and H. pylori experienced a reduction in hive-related symptoms after their infection was treated.
2. Working out
Could you be allergic to your own sweat? Yes, says Dr. Anand. Although the cause of hives triggered by exercise is sometimes thought to be an increase of body heat, what actually triggers hives when you work out is sweat. Does that mean you should skip exercise if you have chronic hives? Not necessarily. Talk to your doctor if you suspect this may be one of your triggers he or she may recommend taking a dose of antihistamine just before you exercise to help prevent a flare-up.
3. Stress
Research shows that stress can play a major role in many physical and mental illnesses, including chronic idiopathic hives. Stress can bring on and exacerbate chronic hives, says Anand. Its not uncommon to see chronic idiopathic hives developing following a stressful period of time. In several studies, people with chronic hives have been found to have higher levels of stress. Researchers have also found a link between post-traumatic stress disorder and hives. To lower stress, try relaxation techniques for example, mindfulness meditation, which was found to lower the stress hormone cortisol in a study published in 2013 in the journal Health Psychology.
4. Artificial colors and preservatives
Hives can be triggered by some food additives, including artificial colors, flavoring agents, and preservatives, according to research published in June 2013 in the Indian Journal of Dermatology. However, food intolerances that trigger hives cant be tested as easily as typical food allergies, since their underlying mechanism is different. If you suspect that your diet may be a trigger for your hives, your doctor may prescribe an elimination diet, which, over a period of several weeks, will test for a food intolerance.
5. Daylight
If sunlight triggers your hives, youll probably know within just a few minutes of exposure to one of these three types of light: long-wavelength ultraviolet (UVA), short-wavelength ultraviolet (UVB), and sunlight that doesnt contain ultraviolet rays, such as sunlight through a window covered with a protective film that blocks UVA and UVB light. Hives triggered by sunlight usually disappear within a day, but in the majority of cases, they recur. Fortunately, sunlight is a rare trigger, and its easier to test for than other potential triggers.
6. Cold temperatures
Winter is not exactly the most popular season, and with good reason for those who live with chronic hives: The cold can trigger a flare-up in some. Besides the weather, other cold-related triggers include chilly foods and swimming pools. For people who are allergic to the cold, full-body immersion in a swimming pool, in particular, can trigger a severe reaction that involves not just hives but allergic shock (anaphylaxis) and loss of consciousness.
Fortunately, its easy to find out whether cold is one of your triggers: Your doctor can administer a simple test that involves placing an ice cube on your skin for five minutes to see if a reaction occurs. If it turns out that cold is a trigger for you, your doctor will recommend that you protect your skin from the cold and take your medications as prescribed.
7. An autoimmune disease
According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, about half the cases of chronic idiopathic hives are due to immune systems that attack the body's own tissues (also known as autoimmunity). Thyroid disease is the most commonly reported autoimmune condition in people with chronic hives, followed by rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes. A study published in September 2013 in the European Journal of Dermatology found that celiac disease is also associated with chronic hives.
However, says Anand, we dont know if the disease causes urticaria or if the persons propensity to have an autoimmune reaction causes it. But if we dont find any triggers when we test for allergens, then we look for an underlying infection or autoimmune disease. Anand adds that treatment for that condition can help clear the hives.
Discovering Your Triggers
Other potential triggers of chronic hives include heat and aggravating your skin by scratching it or putting pressure on it (for example, by wearing tight clothes or sitting on a hard surface). Keeping a diary in which you record when and where your symptoms developed or worsened can help you and your doctor find clues and pinpoint your triggers, says Anand. But if even that doesnt help, don't lose heart: For most people, even chronic hives whose cause is unknown gradually disappear on their own over time.
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.
