What Cures Hives?
Hives are swollen areas on the skin where blood plasma has leaked between the layers to form itchy spots. Most are attributed to allergic reactions. These spots can be as small as a pencil eraser or larger. Some hives only last a few hours but under the right circumstances they may form on a continuous basis. Other hive attacks can last a few days. There are ways to cure hives and reduce the severity of the attacks.
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Medication
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Over-the-counter oral antihistamines help bring relief to hives. However, they may cause drowsiness. Hives tend to be worse at night so the drowsiness may help you ignore the itching.
Topical Medication
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Use 1 percent topical cortisone which is available as over-the-counter medication. However, you have to be careful when using anti-itch lotions and creams because they may cause an allergic reaction.
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Compresses
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If you are suffering from hives, create a compress by folding a soft cotton cloth into layers. Soak the cloth in cold whole milk and lay it on the hives for 10 to 15 minutes. The protein in the milk will help take away the itching. An ice compress will help with the swelling. Just wrap a couple of ice cubes in a cloth and apply to the hives for five minutes three to four times a day.
Bathing
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If the hives are in an area that can be soaked, take a bath to bring relief. Sprinkle half a box of baking soda or 1 cup of oatmeal in the bath water and mix well. If the hives are not in an area that can be soaked, then splash the bath water over the area.
No Scratching
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Scratching feels so good when you start, but with hives you pay for it later. Scratching can increase inflammation, swelling and the amount of hives. If the skin tears open, then a secondary infection can occur. If you catch yourself scratching at night, wear lightweight gloves while sleeping. This will help prevent unintentional damage. Another way to stop yourself from scratching is to loosely cover the affected area with a elastic bandage. If you can not reach the area, you can not scratch the area.
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