Hives and Angioedema

Hives and angioedema can last less than six weeks. The main cause of hives and angioedema in small children is the viral infections. The other major causes for angioedema and hives are medications, foods, bites, insect stings, animal dander, strep throat, and stress. In an autoimmune form of hives and angioedema, the person forms antibodies against a component of their cells, thus releasing histamine. It is essential to consult a doctor if there is frequent occurrence of hives and angioedema. Hives when left untreated can lead to chronic hives which are irritating and can lead to various other skin infections.

Hives is an allergic reaction that can occur suddenly in response to an allergen. Hives are small red bumps that are called wheals or welts that appear on the skin when an allergic reaction happens. They are itchy and can cause discomfort to the patient.

Angioedema on the other hand are like hives but is larger and run deeper in the skin tissues. Angioedema is a more severe condition than hives. It causes swelling near the eyes and mouth. Sometimes swelling also occurs in the throat which could be dangerous because it can block the passage of air to the lungs.

Common triggers that cause Hives and Angioedema are listed below:

• Viral infections are one of the common triggers for Hives and Angioedema.
• Insect bites and stings are another reason for Hives and Angioedema.
• Allergies to food, medicines, pets, cosmetics etc can cause Hives and Angioedema.
• Emotional and physical stress can cause Hives and Angioedema.
• Transfusions of blood can cause Hives and Angioedema.
• A person suffering from an autoimmune disease can get Hives and Angioedema.
• Physical factors such as sunlight, hot or cold weather, pressure are some factors for Hives and Angioedema.

Hives and Angioedema Treatment:

In very mild cases treatment may not be required. Below are some measures a person can take to avoid Hives and Angioedema or treat it.

• If you know you are allergic to something that causes Hives and Angioedema then stay away from it. Main sources of allergy are food, pets, cosmetics and medicines.
• If you have the symptoms of Hives and Angioedema, and is causing you discomfort then you can take an over the counter antihistamine that is readily available at medical stores.
• Cool compresses can help reduce discomfort. Take a bath in cold water, it will help reduce discomfort. Avoid taking hot showers.
• Avoid exposure to sunlight and other physical agents that can cause Hives and Angioedema.
• Wear loose fitting clothes to allow air in. Avoid indulging in laborious activity that can cause sweating.
• Try to relax and avoid stress.
• You can use a nasal spray in case your nose is blocked.
• If you have difficulty in breathing, you can use an inhalator such as albuterol. This will help open the airway passage.

In severe cases of Hives and Angioedema a course corticosteroids may be prescribed by your doctor. In some cases patients may be given shots to reduce itching and swelling quickly. Do consult your doctor if symptoms still persists.