What Causes Hives?
Hives is a condition that causes the skin to develop itchy red patches. It is also known as urticaria. It may appear as tiny spots or large blotches on the surface of the skin. It usually occurs as an allergic reaction to certain substances, medication, or food. When the human body triggers an allergic reaction, it causes histamine to be released, which results in the leakage of fluid into the skin’s layers. This makes the skin appear bumpy, red, and itchy. Usually, hives resolve on their own. If your condition is chronic, you need to contact a doctor immediately and take the prescribed medication. However, mild cases of hives can be treated with the home remedies listed below.
Home Remedies For Hives
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera possesses healing, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties (1). These properties may help soothe the skin and promote faster healing. Aloe vera gel Do this once every night until the itching subsides.
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties (2). Hence, it may help reduce skin irritation and itching caused by hives. 1 tablespoon coconut oil Do this once a day.
3. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil exhibits strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties (3). This may decrease the swelling caused by hives and also heal rashes.
A few drops of tea tree oil 1 tablespoon of carrier oil (jojoba or sweet almond oil)
Do this 1-2 times a day. Note: Do a patch test before application as it may cause skin irritation.
4. Witch Hazel
Studies show that witch hazel contains bioactive compounds, like tannins and proanthocyanidins, that exhibit anti-inflammatory activities (4). This may help in soothing the rashes and reducing swelling in the affected area. Witch hazel extract Do this 2 times a day.
5. Baking Soda
Baking soda baths were found to alleviate skin itching and irritation (5). Hence, baking soda may help in soothing the symptoms of hives.
1 tablespoon baking soda Water
Do this once a day.
6. Turmeric
The curcumin in turmeric is effective in improving conditions like pruritus and psoriasis (6). Hence, it may help soothe the symptoms of hives.
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder Water (as needed)
Do this 2 times a day.
7. Epsom Salt
Epsom salt baths help in relieving inflammation and soothing the skin (7). This may help relieve itching associated with hives.
A tub of warm water 1-2 cups of Epsom salt
Do this once every day until the hives subside.
8. Supplements
Fish oil and vitamin D supplements may help in relieving the symptoms of hives. Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties (8). These properties may help soothe your symptoms. Vitamin D supplements were found to help in the treatment and management of chronic cases of urticaria (9). Caution: Please consult a doctor before consuming these supplements.
9. Green Tea
Green tea is rich in polyphenols that have anti-inflammatory properties (10). Hence, it may help in reducing swelling in the affected area.
Water Green tea leaves
Do this 2 times a day.
10. Ginger
Ginger is rich in bioactive compounds that impart analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties to it (11). These properties may help in reducing pain and inflammation in the affected area.
1 teaspoon of ginger juice 1 teaspoon of honey
Do this 2-3 times a day. Make sure you try these home remedies after consulting your doctor. Listed below are some over-the-counter medications to treat hives.
Over-the-Counter Treatment Options
Medical treatment options for hives include:
Calamine lotion Fexofenadine (Allegra) loratadine (Claritin) Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
These are commonly administered antihistamine medications that may combat allergic reactions that give rise to hives. Make sure to take these medications only if a doctor recommends it.
When To See Your Doctor
Most cases of urticaria are usually mild. In such cases, you may treat it at home. However, if your symptoms do not subside after a few days, consult a doctor. If you experience any trouble in breathing or feel a swelling develop in your throat, seek immediate medical help. Here are some prevention tips that will help you.
Prevention Tips For Hives
Generally, hives occur as a reaction to a substance or food that you may be allergic to. You must avoid contact with all such substances and refrain from consuming any foods that may cause the release of histamine into your bloodstream. Additionally, some people may develop hives when they step out in the sun. Make sure to limit exposure to sunlight by covering up or applying sunscreen.
Does scratching hives make them worse? Can hives spread by scratching? Scratching hives may make them sore and also increase the discomfort. It can also make them more severe and cause them to spread. Why do hives get worse at night? Skin itchiness may increase at night due to increased blood flow to your skin and increased loss of moisture from the skin surface at night. These factors may make hives itchier at night. Are hives contagious? In most cases, hives are not contagious as they are caused by the release of histamine in your bloodstream. In very rare cases, hives that are caused by viruses may be contagious. How long do hives last? Hives may last from a few minutes to several hours. In mild cases, it may last for a few minutes or last the whole day. Why am I breaking out in hives? Hives are often caused by allergens. Common triggers may include pollen, latex, eggs, detergents, and milk. Stress and some underlying condition may also cause hives. It’s better to consult a doctor if they do not subside in a few days. Can Covid cause hives all over the body? Yes. People with Covid may develop itchy rashes, which look similar to hives. However, not all may experience this. What do stress hives look like? Stress hives often look like raised red and itchy bumps on the skin. What is the difference between a rash and a hive? Hives are raised bumps on the skin, which are typically caused by an allergic reaction. Whereas rashes are flat, red, and may appear scaly. They are caused by irritants. What infections cause hives? Hepatitis, bacterial infections like Helicobacter pylori, or dental infection may cause hives.
