Urticaria, more commonly known as hives, a red, itchy rash on the skin. In some cases, the rash appears in the mucous membranes such as the mouth and throat. The types of hives can be divided into those of chronic and acute ones. Acute urticaria is usually caused by allergic reactions and usually lasts as short as a few hours to no longer than a few weeks. Chronic urticaria is usually caused by vial infection as well as stress, illness, extreme heat and cold.
The causes of hives can include allergic reactions, stress, extreme temperature reactions and viral infections. One of the most common causes is allergic reaction to certain foods such as eggs, shellfish and nuts; or drugs like antibiotics, household dust and pollen. Allergic reactions causes chemicals such as histamine to be released from cells in the skin. This histamine, in turn, causes rashes to appear.
Certain foods can cause the release of chemicals such as histamine which induces itch. Examples are choline, fish and blue-skinned mackerel, horse mackerel, bonito, shellfish, crab, shrimp, pork, eggs, and chocolate. People prone to urticaria should be aware of the possible chemical presence of these ingredients before consumption.
There are times when taking a bath can cause skin irritation and rashes, either by using too much hot water, hot towels or rubbing skin too vigorously with towels. When the symptoms of hives appear, it’s better to shower instead of taking a hot bath.
Hives may affect the gastrointestinal organs and cause related problems. Be mindful of your eating habits, especially snacking. By the same token, sufficient sleep is important, especially if you are prone to getting hives in the evening hours.
Hives can occur due to a variety of causes. If a certain cause is ascertained, prevention is indeed possible. But when you’re in doubt of a cause, always consult a doctor. Obviously, if you know which food or medication gives you allergic reactions, limiting consumption or avoiding them altogether is the best way to avoid hives.
In general, oral medication with antihistamine is used to suppress the itch and rash of hives. In addition, external applications containing antihistamine will help to ease the itch and rash.