If the person experiencing the hives is also experiencing difficulty breathing, call Triple 0. Sometimes allergic reactions can cause hives as well as anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening.
Hives generally settle within a day or so without intervention. Experiencing them as a one-off doesn’t usually warrant further investigation or treatment. However, if you suspect they came about as an allergic reaction to something you ate, it’s worth doing further testing to investigate.
You may consider booking into an allergist who can help you work out the cause of your hives and any required treatments.
Antihistamines are generally the first treatment option a doctor or specialist will recommend. Antihistamines will block the effects of a skin chemical called histamine, which reduces allergy symptoms, including hives and welts.
If your hives are chronic, you should be evaluated by an allergist. It’s worth keeping track of what foods you’ve been eating and exposure to any other possible triggers (for example, animal hair) to help with investigations. The allergist will generally conduct skin, blood and urine tests.
Chronic hives are sometimes treated with medicines which reduce inflammation, known as immune modulators or immunosuppressive medications.
When no cause can be identified, hives are labelled idiopathic.
To avoid hives, you should avoid any known triggers to your condition. This may come down to what you know has caused your hives in the past. General triggers can include excessive heat or cold, alcohol and spicy foods. You should also avoid aspirin, as it can make the condition worse.
