What Allergies Causes Urticaria?
Urticaria, commonly known as "hives" or "wheals," is a skin condition that consists of itchy, swollen bumps that appear on the body for minutes to hours or even weeks at a time. Hives most commonly occur after exposure to allergens, such as medications, insect bites or extreme heat and/or cold. They can also be an indicator of underlying health conditions such as thyroid disorders, bacterial infections or hepatitis. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hives will affect about 20 percent of people at some point in their lives. After a hives outbreak, it is important to determine if an allergic reaction could be the cause.
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Foods
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Foods most likely to cause hives include nuts, chocolate, fish, tomatoes, eggs, fresh berries, soy, wheat and milk. Fresh food is more likely to cause an outbreak versus cooked food. Hives can appear within a few minutes or even several hours after ingesting the allergen.
Abstaining from one of these foods at a time can be a way to determine which one is the culprit, however, getting tested for all allergies by a physician or allergist would be the most effective method, especially since new allergies can develop over time.
Medications
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Both over-the-counter and prescription medications such as antibiotics, pain killers, sedatives, diuretics, vitamins or medicated creams and ointments may also cause hives. After an outbreak of hives, bring a list of all medications and supplements you are taking to your doctor for a consultation as to what may be the problem.
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Environmental Allergens
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Hives can also stem from common airborne allergens. These can include dander (often carried by new pets), dust, mold, pollen or plants such as poison ivy or poison oak, which usually cause hives on the ankles or legs. An allergy to bug bites should also be considered.
Cosmetics
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An adverse reaction to new cosmetics, perfumes or dyes can also lead to hives. Look at the body part where the hives are located. If they are on the neck, for example, that could indicate a new or developing allergy to a perfume, while applying a certain lotion or soap could spread hives onto other body parts.
Chemicals
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One common chemical that causes hives is latex, which can be found on phone buttons, tooth brushes, baby diapers and other household products. Chemicals found in nail polish, detergents, dyes or bleach can also lead to a case of hives.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Nucleus Medical Art, Inc.
