When Are Hives a Health Concern?

Hives are a common health concern, affecting about one in five people at some point. While some hives are mild, occasional, and temporary, others are signs of a serious or ongoing medical condition that needs treatment.

At her office in Valencia, California, Dr. Maricar Cutillar-Garcia diagnoses and treats hives in children and adults. She can also help you prevent hives breakouts in the future.

Here’s a closer look at hives, including signs it’s time to seek treatment.

Hives basics

Hives are red splotches on the skin that appear as an allergic reaction. If you’re exposed to something you’re allergic to, your immune system may trigger inflammation that fuels the often itchy welts. 

There are several types of hives, including:

• Acute urticaria, which lasts for less than six weeks
• Chronic urticaria, which flares up twice or more per week for more than six weeks
• Chronic, spontaneous urticaria, which happens without an obvious cause
• Physical urticaria, in which hives appear in response to cold, heat, or sun exposure 

Some people develop hives only a few times, while others experience them often. If you have one or more allergies, frequent hives are more likely.

When to seek medical care for your hives

While all kinds of hives are a rash. That said, not all rashes involve hives. Hives and rashes don’t usually stem from a life-threatening condition. However, it’s a good idea to understand what you’re dealing with so you can find lasting relief. 

In particular, seek medical care if your hives are:

• Frequent, such as daily
• Sudden and severe
• Long-lasting and lingering on for more than a few days

If your or a loved one’s hives are accompanied by other symptoms, such as breathing difficulties, face swelling, or fainting, seek immediate medical care.

Treatment for hives

To determine the cause of your hives, Dr. Cutillar-Garcia may recommend an allergy test. The test allows her to identify the specific allergen.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your treatment plan may involve:

• A topical, anti-itch skin cream
• Bathing frequently and using a gentle soap 
• Antihistamines
• Allergy shots, for chronic hives
• Biologic treatments
• Carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®)
• Corticosteroid medication 
• Managing stress
• Protecting your skin from the sun 

You may also benefit from wearing looser clothing and avoiding extreme temperatures. For example, exercising in an air-conditioned space may be less triggering than running outdoors in the summer heat.

If you have seasonal allergies, learning what times of year to take added precautions can help prevent hives.

To learn more about hives or get started toward lasting relief, call our office or book an appointment with Dr. Cutillar-Garcia through our website today.