Hives

My skin is red and itchy. Is it hives?

Hives are red, swollen bumps or welts that form on the surface of your skin. They’re caused by an allergic reaction. 

Allergens are harmless substances, like pet fur or pollen. In most people, they don’t cause problems. But for those with allergies, they trigger various symptoms, including hives.

Hives affect everyone differently. Sometimes, they’re small and look like a bug bite; other times, they’re as large as a softball.

Are there different types of hives?

Complete Allergy and Asthma treats several types of hives, including:

Acute hives

Acute hives come and go quickly, typically within four to six weeks. These may form when you come into contact with a specific allergen, like pollen or dander, or they may be caused by alternative processes like autoimmune or viral conditions.  Your team at Complete Allergy and Asthma can help distinguish the cause of your hives. 

Chronic hives

Chronic hives form at least twice a week for six weeks or longer. 

Physical hives

These hives form in response to temperature changes or activities like exercise. 

What are the symptoms of hives?

Hive symptoms include:

• Swelling under the skin
• Raised welts or bumps on the skin
• Itching
• Painful swelling in the eyes, nose, or throat

If you experience any of these symptoms and they affect your routine or quality of life, contact Complete Allergy and Asthma immediately.

How are hives diagnosed?

Your Complete Allergy and Asthma provider reviews your medical records and examines your skin. They then order several tests, including:

Skin test

During this test, your provider exposes your skin to several allergens. If your skin turns red or swells, you’re allergic to that substance.

Blood test

A blood test analyzes your blood for immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which your immune system produces to fight off the allergies. If there’s too much IgE in your blood, you’re more likely to experience hives.

How do allergy and immune specialists treat hives?

• Allergy medication
• Allergy shots
• Corticosteroids
• Epinephrine (if you have severe allergic reactions)
• Xolair

You can complement these treatments with antihistamine creams, cold compresses, and taking cold baths or showers.

Call Complete Allergy and Asthma today to schedule treatment for hives, or book your appointment online.