Urticaria is a dermatological condition characterized by itchy bumps on the skin. They often appear reddened with sizes ranging from 5-6 mm up to several centimeters in diameter. In most cases, the urticaria disappears in about a day with home remedies; however, if it lasts more than a couple of days, you must see a doctor.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Eliminate Triggers
Step 1. Eliminate possible triggers from your diet
You should keep a food diary and write down everything you eat before making any changes and after making any changes; this way you can be able to identify problem foods. There are several foods that can cause hives in various people:
- Foods with vasoactive amines. These amino acids cause the body to release histamines, which can in turn induce hives. The foods that contain them are shellfish, fish, tomatoes, pineapple, strawberries and chocolate.
- Foods with salicylates. These are compounds similar to aspirin; tomatoes, raspberries, orange juice, spices and teas are just some of the foods rich in these substances.
- Other foods that often trigger allergies are peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, cheese, and milk. Caffeine and alcohol can also trigger hives in some predisposed individuals.
Step 2. Assess if you are allergic to anything in the environment
In this case, you can get rid of the dermatological problem by minimizing contact with the elements that induce irritation. Some people react to the following with a rash:
- Pollen. If this is your trigger, you are most likely suffering from hives during the time when the pollen concentration in the air is very high. You should avoid going out during this time and keep your house windows closed.
- Dust mites and animal hair. If you are allergic to dust mites, it can help to keep the rooms in which you live extremely clean and free of dust. Use a vacuum cleaner, dust the surfaces and wash the home regularly. Change your sheets often so you don't sleep in dust or animal hair.
- Latex. Some people experience skin rashes when they come in contact with this material. If you work in the healthcare field and are concerned that latex may cause hives, try using gloves made from another material to see if the skin reaction goes away.
Step 3. Avoid getting stung or bitten by insects as much as possible
Some people react with this skin inflammation when chemicals released from insect bites enter the body. Sometimes allergic reactions are very dangerous; in this case it is necessary to always carry with you an epinephrine injector to be used in case of puncture. If you work outdoors, you need to reduce the risk of being exposed to insect bites and stings:
- Avoid hives and wasp nests. If you see these insects, don't provoke them; instead try to slowly move away and wait for them to fly away.
- Apply insect repellent to clothing and exposed skin. Be careful that these chemicals don't get into your nose, eyes, or mouth. There are several products on the market for this purpose, but generally those containing DEET are effective.
Step 4. Protect the skin from adverse environmental factors
This means defending yourself from extreme temperature changes until your body has adapted to the new climate or using a high-protection sunscreen. Some people have sensitive skin that reacts with a rash of hives to various environmental factors, including:
- The heat.
- The cold.
- The sun's rays.
- The water.
- The pressure on the skin.
Step 5. Discuss the medications you are taking with your doctor
Indeed, there are drugs that can trigger an outbreak of this annoying disorder. If you think that the drug therapy you are following could trigger hives, do not stop it without first talking to your doctor: he will be able to recommend a different medicine that can still cure the underlying problem, but that does not lead to this dermatological pathology. Drugs potentially responsible for hives include:
- Penicillin.
- Certain blood pressure medications.
- Aspirin.
- Naproxen (Momendol, Aleve).
- Ibuprofen (Oki, Brufen and others).
Step 6. Take your general health into account
Check with your doctor to determine if hives may be a symptom of another underlying health problem. There are several pathologies that can cause it, such as:
- Bacterial infections.
- Intestinal parasites.
- Viral infections including hepatitis, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus and HIV.
- Thyroid problems.
- Autoimmune diseases such as lupus.
- Lymphoma.
- Reactions to blood transfusions.
- Rare genetic diseases that affect the immune system and the activity of blood proteins.
Method 2 of 3: Apply Natural Remedies
Step 1. Relieve irritated skin with cold packs
This reduces itching and consequently you tend to scratch less. Here are some tips:
- Wet a towel with cold water and place it on your skin; leave it in place until the itchy sensation subsides a little.
- Apply an ice pack. If you use ice, wrap it in a towel so it doesn't rest directly on your skin, as otherwise you could cause cold burns. if you don't have an ice pack available, you can use a pack of frozen vegetables. Keep the compress on the painful area for 10 minutes and then let the skin recover to normal temperature.
Step 2. Immerse yourself in fresh water with a natural anti-itch ingredient
It is an ancient solution to relieve the itchy sensation. Fill the tub with cold water but not to the point of discomfort. Then, respecting the directions on the product packaging regarding doses, add one of the following substances and soak for several minutes or until you start to feel relief:
- Sodium bicarbonate.
- Raw oatmeal.
- Colloidal oatmeal (Aveeno or others).
Step 3. Wear loose, soft clothing to keep your skin cool and dry
Hives could be the result of skin irritation caused by clothing that is too tight or that holds sweat on the skin. By wearing loose clothing you allow the skin to breathe and avoid causing hives due to excessive heat and irritation.
- Do not dress in itchy fabrics, especially wool. If you wear it, try to avoid it coming into direct contact with your skin. For example, if you decide to wear a wool sweater, wear a light shirt underneath it as well.
- Just as sweat can irritate the skin, too hot a bath or shower will further stimulate hives.
Step 4. Reduce Stress
Some people have rashes when they are experiencing moments of high psychological tension. Pay attention if you are going through a particularly stressful time in your life, such as the end or start of a new job, the death of a family member, a move, or if you are having difficulties in the relationship. In these cases, learning how to manage anxiety should allow you to eliminate hives. You can try the following techniques:
- Meditation. It is a relaxation technique that helps clear the mind. Take a few quiet moments, close your eyes, relax and let go of the stress. Some people mentally repeat a single word (a bit like a mantra) during practice.
- Deep breathing. During this exercise, you need to focus on fully inflating your lungs. By doing so, you are forced to relax and avoid shallow breathing, as happens with hyperventilation. This technique also helps to clear the mind.
- Viewing relaxing images. This is a relaxation technique that consists in imagining a pleasant and peaceful place, which can be real but also imaginary. While trying to visualize this location, try to observe the landscape and try to focus on the sensations, smells and sounds.
- Exercise. Exercising regularly helps you relax, lifts your mood, and improves overall health. Experts recommend getting at least 75 minutes of exercise each week, which can consist of walking, running, biking or even some sporting activity. In addition, you should also do strength activities, such as weight lifting, twice a week.
Method 3 of 3: Seeking Medical Treatment
Step 1. Call for help if you have difficulty breathing
During a hives episode, people can sometimes experience breathing problems or feel like their throats are closed. If this happens, be aware that this is a medical emergency - you need to call an ambulance right away.
In this case, rescuers will likely give you an injection of epinephrine; it is a form of adrenaline that quickly reduces swelling
Step 2. Try antihistamines
They are available both over the counter and by prescription (in stronger dosages). These are first-line treatments for hives and are effective in reducing itching and swelling.
- The most popular antihistamines are cetirizine, fexofenadine and loratadine. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is a very common over-the-counter antihistamine.
- This class of drugs can cause drowsiness, so talk to your doctor to find out if you can safely take them when driving. Do not drink alcohol while taking antihistamines. Read and follow the instructions on the leaflet or those of the doctor.
- Contact your doctor if you are pregnant, as antihistamines may not be safe during pregnancy.
Step 3. Ask your doctor about corticosteroids
These are usually prescribed when antihistamines do not prove effective. They are able to reduce hives by lowering the body's immune response. Treatment typically involves a 3-5 day prednisolone course.
- Before taking corticosteroids, consult your doctor to find out if the medications are safe for you if you have any of the following conditions: hypertension, glaucoma, cataracts or diabetes. Also contact him if you think you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Side effects of these drugs are weight gain, mood swings, and insomnia.
Step 4. Take additional medications to manage "stubborn" urticaria
If your condition does not heal despite treatments, your doctor will likely recommend that you see a skin specialist (dermatologist). Eventually it may be necessary to take additional medications; therefore tell your doctor if you are already taking any medications, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Menthol cream. You can apply it directly to the skin to reduce itching.
- H2 receptor antagonists (or simply H2 antagonists). These are different from over-the-counter antihistamines, they constrict blood vessels thus reducing swelling and redness. Side effects may include headaches, diarrhea, and dizziness.
- Leukotriene antagonists. These are drugs that can be prescribed to replace corticosteroids, as they often have fewer side effects (which can include headaches and nausea).
- Cyclosporine. This active ingredient suppresses the immune system. Side effects include hypertension, headaches, kidney problems, high cholesterol, tremors, and increased vulnerability to infections. It is a drug that is generally only taken for a few months.
Step 5. Discuss the option of phototherapy with your doctor
Some rashes respond well to narrowband UVB phototherapy treatments. The procedure involves staying in a small room for a few minutes while being exposed to light.
- This treatment is not always effective. It may take 2 to 5 sessions per week and up to 20 sessions in total before you start seeing results.
- Keep in mind that this therapy can leave you sunburned and increase your risk of skin cancer.
Warnings
- Consult your doctor before taking any medications if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or need to give medications to babies. This applies to over-the-counter medicines, herbal remedies, and even supplements.
- Tell your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking. This is a very important detail, as some active ingredients may interact with other medicines you are taking.
- Read and follow the directions on the drug packaging and follow any advice your doctor gives you.
