Learn More About The Treatment Of Hives
Many people experience hives at least once in their lives. These itchy welts, also known as urticaria, can appear as small spots or large blotches anywhere on the body. There are numerous triggers for hives, including medication, certain foods, pet dander and even high emotion in some patients. In most instances where hives appear, they’ll be short-lived and pass without leaving marks, even if untreated. In cases where the hives last longer than six weeks, they’re known as chronic hives. Dr. Bolante is available at Parasol Dermatology to help treat dermatological concerns, including hives.
Treatment Of Hives At Parasol Dermatology
Angioedema is a sub-dermal swelling that occurs deep in the skin layers, often around the lips and face. It commonly occur alongside hives, even in smaller cases. A common treatment for hives is antihistamine medication. However, angioedema can be life-threatening if it affects the throat or tongue. The welts that appear with hives demonstrate the following characteristics.
- Purplish on brown or black skin, reddish on white skin, or even skin-colored.
- Mild to intense itching.
- Shapes like a circle, an oval or even a worm.
- In most cases, they will pass within 24 hours, though chronic hives can last indefinitely.
- As small as a pea or as large as a dinner plate.
When angioedema appears along with hives, you can look for the following symptoms:
- Welts that persist for minutes or hours.
- Swelling of the cheeks, lips or tongue.
- Warmth or pain in the areas affected.
In the vast majority of cases, hives and angioedema can be treated at home. However, if the symptoms persist for a period longer than a couple of days, it’s time to see Dr. Bolante. Hives can also appear as part of an anaphylactic reaction, often in response to food or a known allergy. In rare cases, this reaction may be brought on by medication. Either way, a reaction involving the tongue or inner areas of the mouth merits a trip to the emergency room.
While this condition is common, there are ways to assess if you’re at risk. Consider the following risk factors:
- Have you previously had hives or angioedema?
- Do you experience other allergic reactions?
- Does your family have a history of hereditary angioedema or hives?
This information will help you determine if you’re experiencing a case of hives. Remember that in severe cases, the swelling from angioedema that can occur with hives can be life-threatening. Don’t hesitate to go to the emergency room if you find you’re having trouble breathing.
Contact Us Today For Effective Relief From Hives
When you arrive at Parasol Dermatology seeking treatment for hives, you’ll receive a full exam. Part of this exam will involve a detailed medical history that includes reviewing your medications and when your symptoms tend to flare. Using this information, Dr. Bolante will assess your case and determine what types of treatment are most appropriate. In the majority of cases, you’ll be provided with a topical cream or ointment to apply to ease your discomfort and control symptoms.
