Hives (Urticaria)

Hives is an intensely itchy rash of white or yellow wheals (swellings) surrounded by red, inflamed skin. It is usually caused by an allergic reaction to certain foods or medicines, insect bites, or stings. People with hay fever or asthma are more susceptible. Additional triggers that may produce hives include physical factors such as heat, cold, sunlight, water, pressure on the skin, and exercise. Hives can also be caused by stress, or have no obvious cause.

Hive Symptoms

• Raised red or white wheals of different sizes that can cover large areas of skin.
• Appears as a white or yellow raised area in the center with clear red edges that are usually circular in appearance.
• Wheals are usually very itchy.
• Swelling around the rash, particularly if it is on the face.
• Eyes can be sore if rubbed.
• Wheals fade after a couple of hours but may flare up again, sometimes elsewhere on the body.
• Rash can affect any part of the body, but if it affectes the mouth, throat, or tongue it can cause serious breathing difficulties.

Home Remedies for Hives

• Cilantro: Drink cilantro juice whatever may be the cause of rash. Wash fresh cilantro, chop it into pieces, put it into blender, add 1/3 cup of water, and blend. Drink the juice and apply the pulp to the affected area.
• Watermelon: Eat watermelon and rub the white part of the rind on skin.
• Coriander and cumin: Steep 1 teaspoon coriander powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, and 1 teaspoon natural sugar in a cup of hot milk. Drink once or twice a day.
• Sandalwood and turmeric: Make a paste of 2 parts sandalwood powder and 1 part of turmeric mixed in milk and apply this paste to the affected area.
• Aloe vera: Apply aloe vera gel or vitamin E oil to the affected area at least twice a day.

Do’s for Hives

• Apply cool compresses.
• Take a cool shower to reduce itching and swelling.
• Wear loose, lightweight clothes made of natural fibers.
• Add oatmeal oil to lukewarm bath water and soak for 15-20 minutes.
• Apply calamine lotion for cooling effect.
• If stress is a contributory factor, try to reduce stress.

Don’ts for Hives

• Avoid allergen triggering food which may include eggs, strawberries,
  berries, peanuts, nuts, chocolates, cheese, tomatoes, soy products,
  shellfish and many more.

See Doctor

• Hives is not responding to home treatment within 3-4 days.

See doctor immediately if:

• Have difficulty in breathing.
• Lips or tongue swell or difficulty in swallowing.

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