How to Cope With Hives

Hives is a skin condition that is usually caused by an allergic reaction. Hives are raised, red welts on the skin that can appear anywhere on the body. The raised welts can range in size from under 1 inch to as large as 12 inches. They typically itch, sting and burn. Hives appear within minutes of exposure to the allergen and can last from a few hours to several weeks.

Instructions

1. Identify the allergen if possible. This is not always easy to do, because the allergen is most likely a particular ingredient inside the product that caused the reaction. Avoid the product that caused the reaction, make a list of all products you have reacted to and then compare the list of ingredients to find the common one. Once you have identified the ingredient, check the ingredient list of all products before using and avoid those that contain the suspected allergen.

2. See your doctor if you are unable to identify the allergen. He can perform allergy skin testing to find out what you are allergic to.

3. Take an oral antihistamine, such as Benadryl, as soon as you have a reaction and the hives appear. The antihistamine should provide symptom relief within the first hour.

4. Apply an antihistamine topically for faster relief. If the itch or burn is unbearable, put some Benadryl cream directly on the hives for quicker results.

5. Apply cold compresses to the area of your body that is affected by the hives. The cold water reduces the swelling and provides symptom relief.

6. Wear light weight, loose fitting clothing if the hives are on your chest, back, arms, or other areas of the body that are covered by clothes. Tight fitted clothing irritates the hives and makes them itch more.

Tips & Warnings

• Seek emergency medical care if your face, eyes or throat swell when you get hives. You should also see a doctor if the hives are accompanies by a fever, last for more than a day, or turn into blisters.