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Contact: Amy Blaser

(COLUMBUS, Neb.) – Itchy, bothersome hives are usually temporary, fortunately. But it's possible to
have them almost every day for weeks at a time — and you can’t always pinpoint the cause of chronic
hives. The good news? Treatment can help.

Know the signs

Hives typically appear as a rash of very itchy skin welts or blotches. On lighter skin, you might notice a
pink or reddish rash. On darker skin, they may blend in with the skin tone.

Hives often fade within a day and never come back. But chronic hives appear almost daily for six or more
weeks. If you think you have them, see a doctor to find out.

Drugs, bugs, physical conditions and foods

Sometimes there isn’t a trigger for hives; however, there are common items that cause flare-up
including certain medications, infections, physical conditions and foods.

• New medications can cause hives especially from ibuprofen or other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• Recent infections such as upper respiratory tract infections like a cough or cold can cause hives.
• Hot or cold conditions or certain air pressure can be a trigger.
• Different foods trigger differently for everyone, but commonly eggs, peanuts and milk can be a
  cause for hives.

What helps?

If you do have chronic hives, the best way to control them is to work with your doctor. They will try to
pinpoint a cause, but even if they're unable to do that, they can still prescribe treatments that offer
relief.

An antihistamine medication may relieve the itch. But if that doesn't help, your doctor could prescribe
another antihistamine at a different dose, which may be more effective. Sometimes a combination of
antihistamine medications will do the trick. Other medications, including biologics that help calm your
immune system, may also be prescribed.

In addition:

Maintain a trigger journal. Keep track of when you had hives and what you were doing. Did you recently
take a medicine or sweat a lot? What were you eating, drinking, wearing or carrying? Reviewing your
journal may help you figure out what's triggering your hives.

Rein in stress. Stress can trigger hives. Your doctor may include stress reduction techniques as part of
your treatment plan. Techniques such as meditation, mindfulness and deep breathing can help you
manage your stress and reduce flare-ups.

Practice proper skin care. Try not to scratch your hives, since doing so can trigger more hives. If your
hives itch, apply a damp washcloth to the area, take a warm bath or use an anti-itch lotion. You can also
reduce itching and irritation by using fragrance-free skin products; keeping your skin moisturized; and
wearing loose, cotton fabric.

If you have questions about chronic hives or other skin issues, make an appointment with Columbus
Dermatology Clinic by visiting columbusdermatology.org or calling 402-562-4870.

Dr. Dillon Clarey is a dermatologist at Columbus Dermatology Clinic.