hives

[bubbalo]

Yes they appear as you said in am then go and then can come later in the day. He is not bothered really by them and I am giving antihistamines, but I don't want to do this forever and would like to find out underlying cause. I don't think it is food. I suppose it bothers me because it is a sign of allergic reaction. He doesn't have breathing difficulties but sometimes gets a runny nose. He doesn't seem to have food allergies either so I just wondered what I should do. He gets them every few days if I don't medicate him. This has been happening for 4-5 weeks or so. Should I not worry?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Hives result from dilation of capillaries allowing fluid to leak out into the surrounding tissue, the epidermis.They are of two types:acute and chronic(when hives persist for more than 6 weeks). The most likely triggers for acute urticaria are allergies to pets, horses, latex and foods, such as shellfish and nuts,bee or wasp stings,allergies to medicines,Viral infections, such as glandular fever and herpes, dental and sinus infections, fungal infections, blood transfusions and vaccines.

The cause of chronic urticaria is often more difficult to identify. Most cases are called chronic idiopathic urticaria, which means they're caused by the body's unexplainable development of antibodies to itself (auto-antibodies).
Chronic urticaria is often accompanied by coexistent physical urticaria, triggered by environmental exposure to heat, cold, sunlight, vibration, pressure on the skin or even exercise.

So exact cause of hives is difficult to determine.In your husband’s case,rhinitis or running nose or medicines for that may be a cause.If the hives persist for more than 6 weeks then pls consult a physician and get him evaluated.

Hope it helps.Take care and regards.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Are there any new creams or detergents that you have started using lately? Is there evidence of dry skin or insect bites etc?

It would help to keep the sites clean, lose comfortable cotton clothes and also keep the area well moisturised.

Calamine lotion should help. Reconsult with the doctor about the symptoms and what could be the possible cause.

It would help to discuss with your doctor to get a blood test - hemogram done; to find out if there is any eosinophilia.

Let us know if you need any other information.

Regards.