What Are Hives?

The condition known as hives appears as welts on the skin — raised, reddened areas that are usually very itchy. Hives are typically a short-term problem, lasting from a few hours to a few days (called "acute" hives). Sometimes, however, they last for several weeks. If they persist for more than six weeks, the condition is known as "chronic" hives.

The welts result from fluid leakage from the blood vessels in and just below the skin. Substances such as histamine and leukotrienes — normally found inside mast cells and basophils — are released and cause the vessels to swell and leak. This leakage causes the welts visible on the skin. Sometimes the swelling goes deeper into the tissues, causing more significant swelling (angioedema) of the face, feet, and hands.

What Causes Hives?

The bad news is that it may be impossible to find the cause. The good news is that hives usually go away very quickly and your doctor can almost always control them with medications. There are many things that can cause histamine to be released — contact with allergens, certain drugs, viruses or other diseases, cold, heat, pressure, and vibrations have all been known to cause hives.

Allergies are not the most common cause of hives, but when they are the cause, it is usually due to food allergies. When drugs are the cause, it is often ones you might not suspect. Be sure to tell your doctor about all drugs you have taken, including over-the-counter medications. Aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and Aleve are common causes of hives. Many people do not realize that aspirin is found in medications such as Alka-Seltzer.

Who Gets Hives?

Almost anyone can get hives. Studies show that between 15 and 20% of the population will experience them at some point in their lives.

What Usually Happens?

If left alone, hives will go away on their own most of the time. Often, all that is needed is time, a little patience, and some medication to control the itching and swelling.

What Problems May Occur?

Hives are usually not a serious medical problem and in almost all cases pose no serious health risks. Hives can sometimes be caused by underlying endocrine disorders, rheumatologic disorders, infections, vitamin D deficiency, and rarely from cancer.

What Makes Hives Worse?

Continued contact with the cause will make hives worse. Some possible causes include aspirin, foods, drugs, infections, sunlight, exercise, chemicals, pressure, stress, heat, cold, vibrations, pollens, and pets. Unfortunately, it is often very difficult to identify the cause.

What Happens When Hives Are Treated?

If the cause can be found, hives can be prevented from recurring by avoiding that cause. In the meantime, itching can usually be controlled by taking antihistamines or leukotriene inhibitors, and sometimes steroids must be used. Some individuals require injections of Omalizumab.

If you have any questions, contact our office: Omaha: 402-391-1800 Lincoln: 402-464-5969