Hives are a skin condition in which your skin erupts with large welts that are very itchy. Scratching them can cause them to worsen, or break the skin – which can cause scarring. You could also end up with even more hives when you scratch the hives. Hives can be caused from a number of different things, but the good news is that they are treatable and can sometimes be preventable. Read on for a few things that could be causing your hives and what you can do about them.
What Causes Hives?
Hives can be caused from things such as allergies, including food allergies, other allergens, such as pet hair and dander, and fabrics, such as wool or polyester. Hives can also be caused from illnesses, including stomach disorders, or they can be stress related. No matter what is causing your hives, if you experience them and know what your triggers are, you can usually prevent them by avoiding the triggers. With an illness, it may be difficult to prevent hives, but they can still be treated.
How Can You Treat Hives?
Hives can be treated with an over-the-counter itch relief medication such as Caladryl or Calamine lotion. Dab the lotion onto the hives with a cotton ball, then leave it alone and do not scratch the hive. When the lotion wears off, you can apply more throughout the day. An over-the-counter allergy medication can also be used to help treat the hives if your hives are caused by allergies. If your hives are worsening, or these over-the-counter treatments are not working, you should get to the dermatologist for a prescribed medication. Sometimes a medication such as a steroid or an anti-inflammatory may be necessary in order to treat your hives. If you aren't sure what is causing your hives, and haven't been able to narrow down the allergen, allergy testing may be necessary to figure this out. Keep a log to report it to your dermatologist to help figure out what may be your triggers.
If you have constant hives, and you aren't sure what is causing them, or you have re-occurring hives that are causing you pain or discomfort, get to the dermatologist for treatment. If you have hives, try your best to avoid scratching them to prevent damaging your skin or scarring your skin. Use an anti-itch medication to help alleviate the discomfort.
For more information about hives, contact a dermatology office in your area.
Share20 October 2021
We are all covered in skin. It plays a number of roles in our body, helping to keep us warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It keeps our organs in place, and it even eliminates waste. But like any other organ, your skin can develop a number of health issues as time goes on. Maybe you develop acne, or perhaps you become affected by psoriasis or eczema. Dermatologists are there to help. This blog is all about doctors who specialize in dermatology, the work they do, and how they can help you get the skin you've always desired.
