How to Identify and Treat Hives



Hives, or urticaria, is a common skin condition that can cause red, itchy welts on the surface of the skin. It is usually caused by an allergic reaction to something in the environment, such as food, pollen or animal dander. The welts can last anywhere from a few hours to several days and can be quite uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are ways to identify and treat hives in order to alleviate symptoms and reduce discomfort.

Identifying Hives:
Hives can vary in size and shape and often appear as raised bumps on the skin that are red or white in color. They may also be accompanied by swelling of the area around them. In some cases they may also be accompanied by a burning sensation or intense itching. In most cases hives will go away on their own within a few hours but if they persist for more than 24 hours it’s important to seek medical attention as this could indicate an underlying condition that needs treatment.

Treating Hives:
The first step in treating hives is identifying and avoiding any triggers that could be causing them such as certain foods or allergens like pollen or animal dander. Taking over-the-counter antihistamines such as Benadryl can also help reduce inflammation and itching associated with hives while topical creams containing hydrocortisone can provide relief from itching as well. If these treatments do not provide adequate relief then it’s important to seek medical attention for further evaluation and treatment options which may include prescription medications such as steroids or immunotherapy injections depending on the severity of the condition.

In conclusion, hives are a common skin condition that can cause red, itchy welts on the surface of the skin due to an allergic reaction to something in your environment. Identifying potential triggers is key when trying to prevent future outbreaks while over-the-counter medications like antihistamines and topical creams containing hydrocortisone can provide some relief from symptoms like itching and inflammation if needed; however if these treatments do not work then seeking medical attention for further evaluation is recommended for more effective treatment options depending on individual circumstances.

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Hives, Urticaria, Allergic Reaction, Environment, Triggers, Antihistamines, Hydrocortisone, Steroids, Immunotherapy,

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