How to Stop Stress Hives

Urticaria, or hives, are itchy, raised red bumps that appear as rings or patches on your skin. These lesions itch and look similar to mosquito bites. They may be tiny, or become large, especially with scratching. Stress can cause a change in your nervous system and can produce hives. The itching and redness associated with hives can be intense and bothersome. These outbreaks are normally short term and resolve on their own. If severe, the outbreak of hives can include symptoms such as joint aches, chills or weakness.

Things You'll Need

• Aloe vera gel
• Ice pack
• Benadryl capsules
• Milk
• Oatmeal

Instructions

1. Massage aloe vera gel on the affected areas. The aloe vera plant includes over 100 powerful substances that stop the itchiness associated with hives and speed up skin healing. Apply the gel to the affected areas twice a day. You can purchase aloe vera gel at your nearest health food store.

2. Apply an icepack directly to the hives. The cold from the ice pack can help numb the burning sensations and itchiness associated with hives. Rinse the ice pack under running water if the ice pack is frozen to prevent it from sticking to your skin. Apply the ice pack to the affected skin, and leave on for about 15 minutes. Make sure to clean the affected areas before applying the ice pack.

3. Take one Benadryl capsule once every four hours. Benadryl is an over-the-counter drug that can treat hives by blocking the action of histamine, a substance that causes your skin to itch and redden. Never take Benadryl before driving since it may cause drowsiness.

4. Apply a milk and oatmeal combination to the affected areas twice a day. Applying oatmeal can lessen the inflammation of your skin and help stop the itchiness while the milk softens it. Add 1/2 cup of milk to 1 cup of oats in a bowl. Stir until the mixture thickens and turns pasty. Gently massage the mixture onto the affected areas and leave on the skin for 30 minutes.

5. Consult your physician and arrange to get a blood test to screen for allergies. Hives are commonly caused by allergies to food, so it's important that you get an allergy blood test. This test will let you know if you have an allergy so you can prevent hives.

Tips & Warnings

• You must consult your physician before embarking on self treatment for hives or taking supplements.

References

• Can Stress Cause Hives
• American Academy of Dermatology: Uticaria-Hives
• "Medical Diagnosis and Treatment;" Stephen J. McPhee, MD; 2006

Resources

• Help With Hives