Understanding and Managing Hives in Winston-Salem

Understanding Hives and Potential Triggers in Winston-Salem

Hives, also known as urticaria, are a common skin condition characterized by itchy, red, raised welts on the skin. They can appear anywhere on the body and are often triggered by an allergic reaction. Hives are estimated to affect around 20% of people at some point in their lives.

When histamine is released in the skin, it causes swelling under the surface of the skin, leading to a raised welt. The welts can range in size from a few millimeters to the size of a dinner plate. While the welts themselves are not dangerous, they can be extremely uncomfortable, causing severe itching or stinging sensations.

Common Causes and Triggers

Hives are not contagious and do not spread from person to person. There are a variety of potential causes and triggers for hives, including:

• Allergic reactions to foods, medications, insects, plants, or other substances
• Infections such as colds, viral infections, and strep throat
• Extremes in temperature
• Scratching or rubbing the skin
• Sun and heat exposure
• Stress or anxiety
• Exercise and sweating
• Pressure or vibration on the skin
• Water exposure, such as swimming pools or hot tubs

In Winston-Salem, some of the most common triggers for hives are foods, medications, insect stings, viral infections, heat exposure, and emotional stress. Identifying and avoiding your personal triggers is key to preventing recurrent hives.

Common Food Triggers

Any food can cause hives, but the most common food triggers include:

• Nuts and seeds, especially peanuts, cashews, and sesame seeds
• Eggs
• Shellfish such as shrimp, lobster, and crab
• Chocolate
• Berries such as strawberries and blueberries
• Tomatoes
• Citrus fruits
• Soy products
• Spicy foods
• Milk and dairy products

In some cases, additives like food dyes, preservatives, or flavor enhancers can trigger hives. Reading food labels carefully can help identify problematic ingredients.

Medications That May Cause Hives

Any medication can potentially cause hives, even those that have been taken previously without issue. Common medications linked to hives include:

• Antibiotics, especially penicillins and sulfa drugs
• NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve)
• Aspirin
• Blood pressure medications
• Seizure medications
• Antidepressants
• Chemotherapy drugs

Keep a list of all medications, prescription and over-the-counter, to review with your doctor if you develop hives. Switching to alternative medications may resolve the issue.

Insect Stings

Insect stings are a common cause of hives, especially during warmer months. Bee stings, wasp stings, hornet stings, and fire ant bites can all trigger hives in sensitive individuals. Seek emergency care for signs of a severe allergic reaction like trouble breathing, dizziness, or swelling of the lips or throat.

Viral Infections

Viral illnesses like cold viruses, mono, hepatitis, and COVID-19 may trigger hives in some people. Hives typically appear shortly after getting sick and resolve as the infection clears. Staying hydrated, resting, and taking antihistamines can provide relief.

Heat and Sun Exposure

Heat, whether from exercise, hot showers, or sitting in the sun, can cause itchy hives in some people. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, drink plenty of fluids, and take a cool shower if you notice hives after getting hot. Certain sunscreens and tanning oils can also provoke hives.

Stress and Anxiety

Outbreaks of hives can also be triggered by emotional stress, anxiety, tension, excitement, and even positive emotions like laughter. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, meditation, therapy, or medication may help reduce flare-ups.

Treating Acute Hives in Winston-Salem

In most cases, hives last less than 24 hours and can be managed at home with the following treatments:

Over-the-Counter Antihistamines

Antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), or fexofenadine (Allegra) block the action of histamine and provide relief from itching. Take antihistamines as directed on the package. Consider using longer-acting 24-hour formulations.

Cool Compresses

Applying cool, wet compresses to the affected skin can help soothe itching and reduce swelling. Avoid rubbing or scratching the areas.

Oatmeal Baths

Add a cup of colloidal (finely ground) oatmeal to lukewarm bath water and soak for 15-20 minutes to reduce inflammation. Avoid hot water which can worsen itching.

Moisturizing Creams

Thick moisturizing creams containing menthol, pramoxine, or colloidal oatmeal can also help calm itchy skin. Look for creams advertised for itch and rash relief.

Avoid Triggers

Eliminate potential triggers like foods, medications, or products you suspect may be provoking your hives until the outbreak resolves.

When to See a Doctor for Hives

In most cases, hives that last less than 6 weeks can be managed with at-home care and antihistamines. However, you should call your doctor if:

• Hives last longer than 24-48 hours
• Hives do not improve with antihistamines
• Hives are accompanied by difficulty breathing, dizziness, or swelling of the lips, face or throat
• You experience recurrent hives several times per week or month
• You have no known cause for your hives

Your doctor can help identify the source of your hives and provide prescription treatment options if needed. You may be referred to an allergist for skin testing.

Medical Treatments for Recurrent Hives in Winston-Salem

If you experience hives frequently over a period of weeks to months, your doctor may recommend additional treatment such as:

Prescription Antihistamines

Prescription antihistamines like hydroxyzine or leukotriene inhibitors like montelukast (Singulair) can be more effective than over-the-counter options for chronic hives.

Oral Steroids

For short-term severe hives, your doctor may prescribe a brief steroid taper to quickly reduce swelling and itching.

Anti-Inflammatory Creams

Prescription topical creams containing steroids or tacrolimus can relieve itching and inflammation when applied directly to hives.

Ultraviolet Light Therapy

Exposing the skin to certain wavelengths of UV light 2-3 times per week can improve chronic hives in some patients. Phototherapy is typically done in a dermatologist's office.

Allergy Testing

Allergy testing like skin prick testing can identify specific IgE-mediated allergies to foods, pet dander, dust mites, or latex that may be triggering your hives. Identifying and avoiding allergens may be beneficial.

Immunosuppressants

For severe, debilitating hives that persist longer than 6 weeks, immunosuppressants like cyclosporine may be prescribed to reduce overactive immune response. Omalizumab (Xolair) injections may also be an option.

Preventing Hives in Winston-Salem

While acute hives can be difficult to avoid entirely, the following prevention tips can reduce risk and exposure to common triggers:

• Take antihistamines as preventive treatment prior to known triggers like exercise, heat exposure, or anxiety-provoking situations
• Avoid rubbing, scratching or irritating your skin
• Wear loose, breathable clothing and avoid becoming overheated
• Use gentle skin care and laundry products labeled "hypoallergenic"
• Avoid known food or medication allergens
• Treat and control underlying conditions like stress, thyroid disorders or infections
• Use insect repellent and EpiPen if you have a known insect venom allergy

Keep a diary tracking your hives to try to pinpoint patterns and potential causes. Work closely with your doctor to control recurrent hives and improve your quality of life.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.