Hives or urticaria is red, raised, bumps or patches that appear on the skin, and they can be accompanied by itching, burning and a stinging sensation. The most common cause of hives is allergy to foods or medications. Sometimes, fabrics, viral infections, insect stings, exposure to sunlight etc can also cause hives. Foods like fish, nuts, wheat, soy, etc can cause hives. Similarly medications like aspirin, blood pressure medications and painkillers can also trigger urticaria. Allergic responses to food occur within few minutes to an hour after the food ahs been consumed. Allergies to medications may manifest within days or weeks of the treatment.
Allergy to a substance causes mast cells to release histamine. This is a vasodilator, which causes blood vessels to expand and leak fluid into surrounding areas. Inflamed, leaking capillaries and blood vessels cause redness and itching of the skin that results in hives.
Hives usually resolves on its own. It may last for a few minutes, a few hours or for several days. Applying a cool compress over the affected area and bathing in lukewarm water, using a mild soap and wearing cool, loose fitting clothes will prevent the condition from worsening. Doctors usually prescribe antihistamine to relieve itching and soreness. Severe cases of hives may require injection of epinephrine or steroids.
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