What You Need to Know About Hives
If you have patches of red bumps on your skin that itch, it is possible you have urticaria. This condition is more commonly known as hives. It’s an inconvenient condition, but one which can easily be treated if caught early. If you are seeking to learn about hives you have come to a great starting place.
Hives result from plasma leakage in the skin. As a result, histamine releases through the body. Histamine is a chemical which eliminates threats to your immune system. In many cases, histamine protects you from allergens. When the body releases histamine, blood flows to the area of the body exposed to allergens. This causes irritation and itchiness as a response to this invasion.
Acute Urticaria
The most benign type of hives. They are medically treatable and typically last less than six weeks. This is often a reaction to food, medications, or infections which cause allergic reactions.
Angioedema
A more severe type of hives. This condition lasts more than six weeks and is often caused by more serious medical conditions. These include thyroid conditions, hepatitis, and even cancer. Angioedema is especially dangerous, as it may lead to infections of internal organs. Lungs, muscles, and gastrointestinal tracts are especially susceptible. You want to consult a doctor if more severe symptoms occur. These include wheezing, dizziness, and swelling.
Physical Urticaria
The most common type of hives. This condition arises from exercise, manual labor, and other physical activities. Hives appear in areas of the skin which receive the most activity. They appear an hour after the area sweats or chafes and they disappear quickly.
Aside from medications such as antihistamines, cortisone, and epinephrine, there are easy remedies for hives. In most cases, they involve cooling the skin. Allowing the body to cool through wet compresses, wearing loose clothing, and sitting in a room with cool air are the best remedies when confronted with hives.
Please contact us for more information if you would like to learn more about hives and other allergic conditions.