Understanding What Hives Mean: 3 Types Of Hives Explained

Hives are fluid-filled bumps on the skin, most often found on the neck, chest, and back. Hives that form as a result of an allergic reaction are known as urticaria. Out of these three types of hives, only urticaria can be cured. Learn more about these three types with this blog article! 

3 Types Of Hives Explained And How To Treat Them

There are three types:

1. Acute urticaria: This is the most common type of hive and is often caused by an allergic reaction. It typically lasts for a few days and goes away on its own.

2. Chronic urticaria: This type of hive lasts for more than six weeks and can be caused by both allergies and autoimmune disorders.

3. Physical urticaria: This type of hive is caused by physical stimuli, such as heat, cold, or pressure. It usually goes away within minutes or hours after the stimulus is removed.

Signs and Symptoms of Hives

Hives, or urticaria, are itchy, red welts that can appear on your skin. They’re usually harmless and go away on their own, but they can be a sign of an allergic reaction.

There are different types of hives, and each has its own set of symptoms.

Acute last less than six weeks. They can be brought on by an allergy to food, medication, or an insect sting. They can also be caused by an infection or stress.

Chronic hives last more than six weeks. They’re often caused by an autoimmune disorder, such as thyroid disease or lupus.

Angioedema is a type that involves swelling under the skin. It can be painful and is often associated with difficulty breathing. This type of hive requires medical attention.

What is the Prognosis for Hives?

The prognosis for hives generally depends on the underlying cause. For example, if hives are the result of an allergic reaction, they may go away once the allergen is removed. If hives are the result of a viral infection, they will typically resolve on their own within a few days or weeks. Chronic hives, however, can last for months or even years.

Why do some people get this?

There are many reasons why someone might get hives. Sometimes, hives can be the result of an allergic reaction to a specific trigger, such as food or medication. Other times, maybe the result is from a more general allergy, such as pollen or pet dander. In some cases, may even be the result of a viral infection.

Whatever the cause, hives typically occur when the body releases the histamine in response to something it perceives as being harmful. This release of histamine causes the blood vessels in the affected area to widen and leak fluid, leading to the telltale redness and swelling of hives.

In most cases, hives are not a serious condition and will go away on their own within a few days. However, if you experience hives that are accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing, you should seek medical attention immediately as this could be a sign of a more serious allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.

Hives Prevention and Treatment

There are a few things you can do to prevent this from occurring or recurring. If you have a known allergy, avoid the allergen if possible. If you’re taking a medication that may be causing talk to your doctor about changing drugs or dosage.

To treat you can use an over-the-counter antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or cetirizine (Zyrtec). Apply a cool compress to the affected area for relief from itching. If you are severe, your doctor may prescribe a stronger antihistamine or a corticosteroid.

Home remedies for an attack

When you have an attack, over-the-counter antihistamines can help lessen the itchiness and swelling. If you are severe, your doctor may prescribe a stronger medication. To help relieve your symptoms and speed up healing, you can also try some home remedies.

Here are some home remedies

– Apply a cold compress to the affected area for 10 minutes at a time. Do this several times a day as needed.

– Take an oatmeal bath to soothe your skin. Add 1 cup of oatmeal to a tub of warm water and soak for 15 minutes.

– Moisturize your skin with a hypoallergenic lotion or cream. This will help keep your skin hydrated and prevent further irritation.

– Avoid scratching or rubbing the affected area as this will only make the itching worse.

Should You Be Concerned If You Have Hives?

If you have hives, you may be wondering if you should be concerned. Hives can be a sign of an allergic reaction, but they can also be caused by other things, such as stress or viral infections. So, how can you tell if you are cause for concern?

If you are accompanied by other symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the face or throat, or dizziness, then you should seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.

If you have hives but don’t have any other symptoms, they do likely not cause concern. However, if they last longer than a week or two, it’s a good idea to see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Conclusion

Hives can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, but it’s important to understand what they are and what causes them. There are three main types — physical, allergic, and idiopathic — and each has its own set of causes and treatments. By understanding the different types, you can better manage your symptoms and get relief from this condition.