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Hives

Hives, also known as urticaria, are red, itchy, raised welts on the skin that can appear suddenly and change location. They can be caused by an allergic reaction, stress, infection or other triggers. Treatment includes antihistamines, corticosteroids, and avoiding triggers. If severe, Epinephrine (adrenaline) may be prescribed.

Hives Key Points
CausesLupus, Bacterial Infection, Allergic reactions
RemediesWearing protective clothes, Avoid exposure to allergens, Good Hygiene
Preventive OptionsAvoid food allergy, Good hygiene, Avoid rubbing
Treatment OptionsMedications(Corticosteroids, Epinephrine, Leukotrine)
SpecialistInternal Medicine Specialist

Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, red, itchy welts on the skin that can appear suddenly. They can vary in size and shape and may appear alone or in clusters. Hives are caused by the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals from the skin cells, and can be triggered by a variety of factors such as allergies, infections, medications, or stress. Hives can be short-lived, lasting only a few hours, or can persist for several weeks. In some cases, hives can be accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, wheezing, or a rapid heartbeat.

Other Symptoms that come with hives

The symptoms of hives include:

  1. Raised, red, and itchy welts: Hives are typically raised, red, and itchy welts on the skin that can vary in size and shape.
  2. Welts can appear suddenly: Hives can appear on the skin suddenly, and can last for a few hours or a few days.
  3. Welts can change size and location: Hives can change size and location and move around on the skin.
  4. Swelling: Hives can cause swelling of the affected area, especially around the eyes, lips, and tongue.
  5. Flushing: Hives can cause flushing of the skin, which is characterized by redness and warmth.

The Types of Hives

There are different types of hives, including

  • Acute hives: These are hives that appear suddenly and last for less than 6 weeks.
  • Chronic hives: These are hives that last for more than 6 weeks.
  • Physical hives: These hives are caused by physical triggers such as pressure, cold, heat, sunlight, or water.
  • Allergic hives: These hives are caused by an allergic reaction to a substance, such as a food or medication.
  • Autoimmune hives: These hives are caused by an underlying autoimmune disorder, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Idiopathic hives: These hives have no known cause.
  • Cholinergic hives: These hives are caused by changes in body temperature, such as sweating or fever.
  • Conditions that cause Hives

    There are many medical conditions that can cause hives, including:

    1. Allergic reactions: Hives can be caused by an allergic reaction to a substance, such as a food, medication, or insect sting.
    2. Infections: Hives can be caused by viral or bacterial infections.
    3. Autoimmune disorders: Hives can be caused by autoimmune disorders such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
    4. Medications: Hives can be caused by a reaction to certain medications, including antibiotics, pain relievers, and blood pressure medications.
    5. Physical triggers: Hives can be caused by physical triggers such as pressure, cold, heat, sunlight, or water.
    6. Idiopathic: In some cases, the cause of hives is unknown, referred as idiopathic hives.

    Diagnostic Tests for Hives

    Diagnosis of hives typically involves a physical examination of the affected area and a review of the patient's medical history and any other symptoms they may be experiencing.

    • Skin scraping or culture: A sample of the affected skin is taken and examined under a microscope to identify any bacteria, fungus or virus that may be causing the hives.
    • Blood tests: Blood tests can be used to check for certain infections, autoimmune disorders, or to measure the level of histamine in the blood.
    • Allergy testing: If hives are suspected to be caused by an allergy, allergy testing may be performed.
    • Phototesting: This test is used to check for photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight) in cases of suspected photodermatitis.
    • Thyroid function test: This test is used to measure the level of thyroid hormones in the blood and check for thyroid disorders, if suspected.

    Treatment for Hives

    Treatment for hives will depend on the underlying cause of the symptoms. Some examples of treatment options include:

    • Anti-histamines: These medications can be used to reduce the release of histamine from the skin cells, which can reduce itching and inflammation.
    • Corticosteroids: These medications can be used to reduce inflammation and itching.
    • Leukotriene modifiers: These medications can be used to reduce the symptoms of hives by blocking the effects of leukotrienes, chemical mediators that are involved in the inflammatory process.
    • Epinephrine: Epinephrine can be used in cases of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction which is accompanied by hives.
    • Avoiding triggers: If hives are caused by an irritant or allergen, avoiding exposure to that substance can help to prevent future outbreaks.

    The Preventive Care for Hives

    There are several preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing rashes:

    • Identifying and avoiding triggers: If you know that certain substances or conditions tend to cause rashes for you, take steps to avoid them.
    • Keeping skin moisturized: Keeping your skin moisturized can help to prevent dryness and cracking, which can worsen rash symptoms.
    • Wearing protective clothing: When working with chemicals or other irritants, wear protective clothing such as gloves, long sleeves, and pants to keep the irritant away from your skin.
    • Maintaining good hygiene: Maintaining good hygiene can help to prevent the spread of infectious rashes.
    • Identifying food allergies: If you suspect you have a food allergy, consult with a doctor or allergist to have proper testing and avoid the allergen.

    When to see a doctor

    You should see a doctor if you have a rash and:

    • Your symptoms are severe and persistent, despite trying over-the-counter remedies
    • You have signs of infection, such as fever, pus, or warmth in the affected area
    • You have difficulty breathing or swallowing
    • You have other symptoms, such as joint pain or fatigue
    • Your rash is accompanied by a fever, swollen lymph nodes, or other flu-like symptoms
    • You have a history of chronic skin conditions or other medical conditions that may be affecting your skin
    • You have recently started using new medication, as rashes can be a side effect of certain medications.

    Hives Doctors

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    If you have hives and are concerned about your health, it is important to seek immediate medical attention from a qualified hives doctor. A doctor specializing in treating hives, such as a Internal Medicine Specialist, would be the right health professional to consult.

    Here is a list of Top verified doctors for hives. You can book an appointment with one to start your hives treatment today.

    Dr. JS Guleria, Internal Medicine Specialist in

    Dr. JS Guleria

    Consultant - Internal Medicine

    67 Years of experience

    5 Feedbacks

    Sitaram Bhartia Institute of Science and Research, New Delhi, Delhi NCR

    Rs. 2,000 Consult Fees

    Dr. VK Bhargava, Internal Medicine Specialist in

    Dr. VK Bhargava

    Consultant - Internal Medicine

    53 Years of experience

    Apollo Health City, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad

    Rs. 1,000 Consult Fees

    Dr. Altaf Patel, Internal Medicine Specialist in

    Dr. Altaf Patel

    Director - Internal Medicine

    49 Years of experience

    3 Feedbacks

    Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai

    Rs. 1,500 Consult Fees

    Hives Hospitals

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    A hospital can provide various services to help diagnose and treat your hives. If you are experiencing hives In that case, it is important to visit a hives hospital for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

    Check a list of Top Hospitals for hives treatment.

    Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai

    Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai

    Multi Speciality Hospital

    4.9
    4.9 out of 5 stars(1681 Reviews)

    Established in 1918

    🛌345 Beds

    https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/45663/original/Anil_Karapurkar.webp?1682695579https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/62022/original/Madhav_Kamat.webp?1682696472https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/45874/original/Bhupendra_Gandhi.webp?1682695590https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/62633/original/Gustad_B_Daver.webp?1682696506https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/63645/original/Vijay_N_Khambhati.webp?1682696564 5+ Doctors
    Dr Mehta Hospital, Chetpet, Chennai

    Dr Mehta Hospital, Chetpet, Chennai

    Multi Speciality Hospital

    4.8
    4.8 out of 5 stars(12 Reviews)

    Established in 1940

    🛌220 Beds

    https://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webphttps://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webphttps://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webphttps://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webphttps://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/53404/original/Latha_Jawahar.webp?1682695996 5+ Doctors
    Nanavati Hospital, Vile Parle, Mumbai

    Nanavati Hospital, Vile Parle, Mumbai

    Super Speciality Hospital

    4.7
    4.7 out of 5 stars(1134 Reviews)

    Established in 1950

    🛌350 Beds

    https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/56142/original/Ashok_Mehta.webp?1682696151https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/64539/original/Nana_C_Joshi.webp?1682696613https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/62971/original/Agyasingh_Kochar.webp?1682696527https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/54588/original/Rashid_H_Merchant.webp?1682696064https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/52673/original/Harish_Mohanty.webp?1682695956 5+ Doctors

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Frequently asked questions and answers about hives.

    How are hives treated?

    Treatment for hives depends on the severity of the symptoms. In mild cases, over-the-counter antihistamines may be sufficient to relieve symptoms. In more severe cases, prescription antihistamines or corticosteroids may be needed. Avoiding triggers, such as certain foods or medications, can help prevent future outbreaks of hives.

    What are hives caused by?

    Hives can be caused by various factors such as allergies, stress, infections, or underlying medical conditions.

    What are the symptoms of hives?

    Symptoms of hives include raised, red, itchy welts on the skin, which can appear suddenly and change location quickly. Hives can vary in size and shape and can appear on any part of the body. They can also be accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling (angioedema) and difficulty breathing.

    How do I get rid of my hives?

    To get rid of hives, you can try taking over-the-counter antihistamines, applying cool compresses, avoiding triggers such as certain foods or medications, and practicing stress-reducing activities such as yoga or meditation.

    When should I see a doctor for hives?

    You should see a doctor if you have hives that are accompanied by difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. If you have hives that last for more than 6 weeks, or if your hives are recurrent or chronic, you should also see a doctor for proper diagnosis and management.

    Why am I getting hives all of a sudden?

    Getting hives all of a sudden can be caused by various factors such as an allergic reaction to food, medication, or other triggers, stress, or infections. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options.

    Hives Patient Reviews

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    Reviews by patients on different.

    HivesReview 1

    Md Ruhul Amin,

    Medanta The Medicity

    Dr. Pranaw Kumar Jha sir is the best Nephrologist in not only Medanta hospital but also all over india. He is GOD for me. People says that doctor is the 2nd God for us I belief that when I came to medanta hospital & personally meet him..... Each & every person are very comfortable & helpfull in this. Actually I came to medanta hopital for my Mother Kidney disease but Dr. Pranaw Kumar Jha sir traeat all of my mother problems. Each & every diseases will just vanish. Therefore I recommend all of you If you faced any kind of problem at least one time contact or meet to Dr. Pranaw Kumar sir...Thank you so Much for your support & 100 % secure .Thank you so much !!

    HivesReview 2

    Soma Ghosh

    One of the best internal medicine doctors I have ever visited is Dr. Srimathy venkatesh. Her clinical eye and digonostic capability are higher most of the doctors. Her behavior and tratment plans are extraordinary for her 30 years of experience. We are highly satisfied and hounered to get her as our family health ambassador.

    HivesReview 3

    Bhavna Sharma

    Medanta The Medicity

    I have been visiting Dr Prasad for over 1 year for my asthma. Dr Prasad has been very humble and has always guided me through this problem. Especially with the pollution increasing, I 've been very worried about my condition. He has provided me with a proper treatment plan and also readily available.

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