How to Handle Hives

• An actual hive usually lasts under 24 hours, but the reaction can last for weeks. This is because as the bumps fade, new ones can take their place.
• Hives can appear on the skin anywhere.
• During a reaction, it’s possible that not all hives will be the same shape or in the same area.
• If you apply pressure to the bumps, they will turn from red to white (blanching).
• The overall reaction is usually acute (lasting under 6 weeks), however may be chronic (lasting over 6 weeks).

Hives can be caused by a number of different things:

• Some food (especially peanuts, eggs, nuts and shellfish)
• Pet dander
• Pollen
• Some plants, such as poison oak and poison ivy
• Medications, such as antibiotics (especially penicillin and sulfa), aspirin and ibuprofen
• Insect stings or bites
• Physical stimuli, such as pressure, cold, heat, exercise or sun exposure
• Latex
• Blood transfusions
• Bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections and strep throat
• Viral infections, including the common cold, infectious mononucleosis and hepatitis

Fortunately, most cases of hives, while uncomfortable, pose no real health threat. However, chronic hives can be a sign of an immune disorder and can lead to health problems down the road. So if you are experiencing this reaction, you should get checked out. Also, people often incorrectly self-diagnose their condition as hives when it is really angioedema, a swelling under the skin. The symptoms of angioedema are a little different and include:

• Swelling in the eyes or mouth
• Swelling of the hands, feet or throat
• Difficulty breathing, stomach cramps or chemosis (swelling of the lining of the eyes)

With either hives or angioedema, severe reactions need immediate medical attention.

And as we said above, even if you have mild symptoms, you should see an allergist to determine exactly what is causing your reaction – because why suffer if you don’t have to.

With state-of-the art diagnostic practices and tools, such as those used in food allergy testing, the expert physicians at CT Sinus Center will be able to pinpoint your triggers and devise an individual treatment plan. Whether that plan includes medications or avoidance practices, we will make sure that it keeps you safe and comfortable

Call us today at 860-BALLOON to schedule an appointment at one of our four conveniently-located offices.

And for all things sinus– and allergy-related, visit the CT Sinus Center website and blog.