How to Tell the Difference Between Chronic & Regular Hives
Hives are a type of skin rash that most frequently appear on the legs, arms and back. They often look like splotchy, raised bumps or welts. Hives can be caused by a variety of medical conditions and environmental factors. Regular hives, which are often triggered by skin's exposure to heat, cold or sweat, are generally non-recurring in nature and shouldn't cause much concern. Chronic hives often result from a serious allergy (usually to a food or insect bite) or medical condition that requires a doctor's attention, such as a virus. Telling the difference between the two types of hives is fairly simple, as regular hives clear after a short time and chronic hives remain for weeks.
Instructions
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Monitor the hives. Regular cases of hives may last a few hours or a few days, but no longer than that. Chronic hives remain or continue recurring for a period of at least six weeks. Use a notepad to keep track of the amount of time the hives have remained on your body and any recurrences or changes in the hives.
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Treat the hives with over-the-counter medicines, such as hydrocortisone cream and an antihistamine approved for treatment of hives, such as Benadryl. These medicines should take care of any regular hives. If the hives do not respond to the treatment or worsen, they may be chronic.
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Monitor any other symptoms. Chronic hives are often triggered by allergies, and therefore can be accompanied by serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dizziness and fainting. If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.
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Avoid suspected triggers. If the hives are chronic, avoiding substances to which you are allergic should alleviate the symptoms.
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Visit the doctor. The doctor will administer allergy tests to identify the trigger and prescribe medications to control the hives and alleviate any other symptoms.
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Tips & Warnings
Always visit the doctor if you suspect you have chronic hives, as they can be a sign of a life-threatening allergy or medical condition.
