Understanding Hives Articles | Allergies

One of the worst side-effects of allergy is hives. These bumpy, raised and pink patches are not only embarrassing but also itchy, burning and they sting.

Hives can appear at any part of your body any and every time you come in contact or eat some food which throws your immune system on a combat mode to fight the allergens, and you break into an allergic reaction. Hives differ in shape and size. They may be small, like an insect bite or big like a dinner plate. They may also appear in clusters.

The common myth about hives is that they originate from acidic foods like tomatoes or strawberries. The truth is that any food may contain the requisite allergens which result in hives. It is simply a matter of how your body would react to the particular allergen, once consumed or brought in contact. While one person breaks in to an itchy or watery eyes or a runny nose, another person breaks in to hives.

Hives are pretty common, in the sense that nearly 25% of people have got it at least once in their lives.

When the body comes in contact with an allergen which triggers hives, the body cells naturally and instantly start to react by releasing a chemical substance called histamine. This fluid then leaks from the blood vessels just under the skin. The accumulation of such fluid under the skin then forms blotches or mounds, which are known as hives.

While insect bites, foods and some other allergens are the most common causes of hives to appear, there are other causes too, which include:

• Exposure to cold (like diving into a cold pool).

• Exercise.

• Over exposure to sun.

• Stress.

• Viral infections.

Whatever may be the cause for the hives to appear, they may last a few minutes to a few days!

Though hives tend to disappear after a few hours or even a few days, anti histamines are usually administered to control the burning sensation and itchiness of hives. Sometimes, some people need a stronger dose of medication for relief from hives.

Though rare, hives may be a precursor to a more serious allergy reaction which impedes normal breathing and other body functions. After the hives have appeared, if you notice someone breaking into any such symptoms like wheezing, choking, swollen throat or a tight chest, seek medical help immediately. It takes minutes for the situation to worsen and turn for the worst. It can choke breathing completely and the person may collapse. There are some who are well-prepared for such situations and carry a shot of Epi-pen (a one shot dose of epinephrine) for immediate relief. Though this shot provides immediate and temporary relief, they must visit a doctor immediately to monitor their condition.

Though seemingly simple, hives can turn dangerous if coupled with other severe forms of allergy reaction. In most cases however, they are simple and easy to control and can disappear with some medical attention.