Treatment of Autoimmune Hives

Treatment of autoimmune hives isn't easy as in many cases it is found that patients are resistant towards the chemicals present in the medications provided to them. However, there are several treatment methods to treat autoimmune hives.

Antihistamine Tablets

In autoimmune urticaria, antibodies attach itself to the cells under the skin and releases histamine which causes rashes of hives. Antihistamines block this action of releasing histamine. Most affected patients usually get total relief of their symptoms with antihistamine tablets and some get partial relief.

There are various antihistamine tablets available in the market. Some of them cause drowsiness and hence it is better to take them at bedtime. Nowadays there are various types of antihistamine tablets that are less likely to cause drowsiness and hence you can take them any time.

Again some antihistamine tablet may suit people differently. If one antihistamine tablet hasn't helped then try a different one which may suit you better.

Antihistamine tablets can be taken as a course regularly or can be taken ‘as and when required' – when symptoms flare up.

Soothing Creams

Usually hives are related to itching. In order to cool the skin and help to relieve itch one can apply creams that contains menthol.

Avoiding triggers or aggravating factors

Try to remain in a cool environment as urticaria may tend to flare up in warmer conditions.

Certain factors may aggravate urticaria, such as: alcohol, hot baths, strong sunlight, undue emotion. If you think these factors are making symptoms worse then it may be helpful to avoid them.

Some medicines can cause symptoms to flare up, in such a scenario consult your doctor immediately.

Steroid Tablets

In many cases, the above mentioned medications may not help and hence the doctor may advice you to take steroids. Steroids reduce inflammation and may relieve urticaria symptoms. However, it is not a treatment that is considered usually because of its serious side-effects which are likely to occur if you take steroids regularly. However, a short course of steroids may be advised rarely for a bad flare-up of autoimmune hives symptoms.

Other treatments

There are several other treatments which have been tried with variable success.

• Going on strict diets which avoid possible food triggers.
• Immunosuppressant therapy (but there is a risk of serious side-effects).
• Homeopathy treatments

These are some of the ways to treat autoimmune hives. But do consult your doctor before taking any medications.