Hives are reaction on the skin characterized by the appearance of red bumps, accompanied flavor itch. Hives or urticaria may appear on the all parts of the bodyand sometimes it appears suddenly.
The size of the bumps varies when they appear. Generally, hives will go away on their own or be relieved by taking drugs. But in some cases, hives do not go away after a few weeks and recur. This condition can be classified as chronic hives.
Hives Symptoms
Hives are usually characterized by the appearance of a bump or rash that is generally oval in shape, accompanied by itching and redness. Based on the duration of occurrence, hives can be divided into two, namely:
- Acute hives, namely hives that appear suddenly, but will heal and subside in a matter of days.
- Chronic hives, namely hives that last longer and
Causes of Hives
The cause of hives in general is an allergic reaction to an object or substance that causes the immune system to secrete histamine substances. Histamine is what causes the symptoms of hives.
In addition to allergic reactions, hives can also occur due to stress, reactions to heat, exercise, infections, or certain diseases, such as thyroid disease or cancer. Cold or hot temperatures can also sometimes be a trigger factor for the emergence of hives.
Hives Diagnosis
Hives can be diagnosed through an examination of the symptoms that appear in the patient and a physical examination. For the symptoms that the patient complains of, the doctor will ask:
- Since when did the symptoms appear?
- Recently eaten food
- Recent activities
- History of past illnesses
To support the diagnosis, the doctor may also perform allergy tests, blood tests, and skin biopsies.
Hives Treatment and Prevention
Mild hives will usually go away on their own. However, in recurrent hives, patients need to take drugs to treat them, for example antihistamines, corticosteroids, leukotriene agonists, and omalizumab.
Hives can be prevented by avoiding triggers, such as heat, stress, medications, or certain foods. Foods and drugs that cause hives can be avoided if the type has been confirmed by a doctor.
Hives Complications
Hives can have an impact on the sufferer's daily life, especially if it lasts in the long term. If not treated, the rash due to hives that spreads throughout the body will cause itching and prevent the sufferer from carrying out activities.