Hi,
'Drug treatment is typically in the form of Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, hydroxyzine, cetirizine and other H1 receptor antagonists.
The H2-receptor antagonists such as cimetidine and ranitidine may help control symptoms either prophylactically or by lessening symptoms during an attack.
Tricyclic antidepressants such as doxepin, also are often potent H1 and H2 antagonists and may have a role in therapy, although side effects limit their use. For very severe outbreaks, an oral corticosteroid such as Prednisone is sometimes prescribed. You woul dneed to taper off the steroids gradually.'
Apply calamine lotion at the site of the lesions to help soothe the itching.
Have you had allergic reactions in the past? Are you allergic to any specific substances? Have you consulted an allergy specialist for your complaints?
You could read more about the condition at the following link -
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urticaria
Let us know about how you are doing and post us about what your doctor advises.
Post us if you need any further information.
Regards.
Hi,
Hives are red, itchy welts or swellings on the skin that often come in clusters.In doctor speak, hives are known as "urticaria".
Hives can appear anywhere on the body, cropping up either in one small area or covering large patches of skin. They most often occur as part of an allergic reaction.
Hives usually appear suddenly and go away on their own in a matter of days, hours, or even minutes. Chronic hives, however, can last for six weeks or more. Certain people have recurring outbreaks of hives for months or even years, and it's sometimes difficult to pinpoint the exact cause.
Hives are often caused by a hypersensitivity to:
•Foods (commonly eggs, shellfish, nuts, berries, dyes, or other additives)
•Drugs (any drug can touch off an allergic reaction, although allergies to penicillin, sulfa, and aspirin are especially common)
•Pollens and plants (nettles, poison ivy, poison oak, and so on)
•Animal fur
•Insect bites or stings
•Exposure to heat, cold, or sunshine.
Comfort is the main goal of treatment, since most hive outbreaks are relatively minor and short-lived. To soothe itchy skin, try cold compresses, calamine lotion, a cool shower, or a tepid bath with a few tablespoons of cornstarch (the kind sold in drugstores) thrown in. Try an over-the-counter antihistamine to reduce your body's response to the irritant and to relieve pain. Ask your doctor if you should take antihistamine pills.
If a large area of your body is affected, soak in a cool bath. Make a paste of three teaspoons of baking soda to one teaspoon of water and rub it on to relieve itching.
ref:http://www.myonlinewellness.com/topic/hivestreatment.
Hope you find this information useful.