Causes and Treatment of Hives

Hives, or medically known as urticaria, are one of the most common skin allergies. They may suddenly appear in the form of raised red patches and have clearly defined margins. And they itch! They are most annoying and sometimes embarrassing. Usually they are harmless unless they are also a part of an anaphylactic reaction which includes swelling in the throat and difficulty breathing.

What causes hives?

A common cause of hives include medications, such as penicillin, aspirin, or sulfa. These may also be found in small amounts in some of the foods ( such as milk ) that are eaten and can be particularly difficult to track as the source.

Food can also be the source of hives. Common food allergies include cow’s milk, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, eggs, wheat, corn, soy, tomatoes, strawberries, and citrus. Food additives also may play a role in an allergic reaction:

Food colorings

FD&C Yellow Dye number 5, has long been known to cause hives. This has been found to be a common cause in children. Unfortunately, this dye has been added to many processed packaged foods as well as to some medications. People who are sensitive to aspirin are also susceptible to allergy with this dye. Common foods that contain this dye include hot dogs, jam and jellies, Jello, toothpaste, and lunch meat such as bologna. Drinks such as Kool-Aid, soft drinks, diet drinks, and all tea also commonly contain this dye.

FlavoringsVanilla, cinnamon, and aspartame included in many products may also stimulate hives.

Salicylates

Salicylates, commonly found in aspirin, also are found naturally in almonds, apples, apricots, cherries, pickles, raisins, nectarines, strawberries, and tomatoes.

Preservatives

Benzoic acid, and benzoates are commonly found in and used as food preservatives and can be the cause of hives. Sulfites are also found in many processed foods. They are normally used on fish and shrimp to keep them fresh, which may explain why many folks react after eating these foods.

Medical problems-

women who have frequent vaginal yeast infections with Candida albicans may also develop hives. Hives may also develop from a bacterial infection.

Treatment

1. The best treatment is avoidance if at all possible of the offending substance. Most hives that do develop disappear within an hour or so and no treatment is needed.
2. Stress can make hives worse, so it is important to include relaxation into your daily life.
3. Itching can be made more bearable with over-the-counter Benadryl, or diphenhydramine. This can cause drowsiness, so should not be taken when driving or operating machinery.
4. Supplements which may help chronic hives include:

• Vitamin C- 1000 mg daily
• Vitamin E- 400 I.U. daily
• Selenium- 100 mcg. daily

The presence of hives requires an investigation into the cause. Medications and foods are usually responsible. Seek medical advice if elimination of probable offenders is not successful.

Disclaimer- The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a health care provider for advice.

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