Why do I get hives?

Imagine you're enjoying a peaceful day out, perhaps in the midst of the vibrant tree pollen season or the bustling grass pollen season, when suddenly, your skin erupts into itchy, red welts. These unwelcome guests are known as hives, a common skin reaction that can cause both discomfort and confusion. But why do they appear, and what can you do about them? Let’s explore.

What are hives?

Hives, also known as urticaria, are red and itchy welts that can appear suddenly on any part of the body. They are typically caused by a substance or condition that triggers the body to release histamine, resulting in swelling and itchiness in the skin's surface layers. It is important to identify and avoid the trigger to prevent further outbreaks.

Common triggers

Hives can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

Allergies: Hives can be caused by allergic reactions to food, medication or insect bites. Exposure to pollen during tree pollen season and grass pollen season can also trigger hives in some people.

Physical factors: Heat, cold, pressure on the skin, or even exercise can trigger hives in some individuals.

Infections and illnesses: Sometimes, infections or illnesses can lead to the development of hives.

Stress: Emotional stress is another known trigger for hives in some people.

Seeking allergy relief

If your hives are caused by allergies, finding effective allergy relief is key. Here are some steps you can take:

Avoid triggers: Knowing what triggers your hives is crucial. If pollen is a trigger, for instance, limiting outdoor activities during high pollen seasons can help.

Allergy medicine: Over-the-counter allergy medications, such as antihistamines, can provide relief from hives by blocking the action of histamine.

Prescription treatments: For severe or chronic cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe stronger allergy treatment options, such as prescription nose sprays, or allergy injections, tablets or drops.

When to see a doctor

While hives often go away on their own, there are times when it's important to seek medical attention:

• If your hives persist for more than a few days or recur over a period.

• If you experience other symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or swelling around the mouth and throat, which could indicate a more serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.

• If over-the-counter treatments aren't providing relief.

A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend an appropriate allergy treatment plan tailored to your needs. This may involve identifying specific triggers through allergy testing and prescribing medication to manage the symptoms.

Conclusion

Hives can be a puzzling and often frustrating condition, especially when the trigger is unclear. However, by understanding the common causes and exploring allergy relief options, you can manage your symptoms more effectively. Whether it’s adjusting your activities during the pollen seasons, using allergy medicine, or consulting with a healthcare professional at Airyn for personalised treatment, there are steps you can take to minimize discomfort and improve your quality of life.