Hives
Hives are also known as urticaria, welts, wheals, or nettle rash. They produce a red, raised, itchy skin rash that is sometimes triggered by an allergic reaction. When there is an allergic reaction the body releases a protein called histamine. When histamine is released, our capillaries (tiny blood vessels) leak fluid. The fluid accumulates in the skin and causes a rash.
What Causes Hives?
- Certain foods.
- Insect bites and stings.
- Contact with an irritant, such as nettles, chemicals or latex.
- Certain medications - such as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), used to treat pain, ACE inhibitors, used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).
- Extremes of temperatures.
- Sunlight.
- Water on the skin.
Experts say that in about half of all cases of urticaria the cause is never found.
Treatments
Since hives are caused by an allergen, it makes sense that you would treat them with an antihistamine medication, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Other sedating antihistamines that are sometimes used to treat hives include hydroxyzine (Atarax) and cyproheptadine (Periactin).