“Allergy?”
I have big red hives. Also itchy. What can I do?
Female | 35 years old
2 Answers
Likely allergic to something. If you can determine what triggers it, avoid it. May need to see an Allergist.
Hi,
I am sorry that you're suffering from an itchy skin rash; hives can be unbearable! I would recommend seeking attention from a local physician who can confirm that the skin lesions are, indeed, hives and can help with determining the cause and the best treatment for the rash. Common causes of acute hives, which are hives that have lasted for less than six weeks, would include viral infections, medication allergy (including aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen), and food allergy. Besides avoiding any possible triggers, first-line therapy would likely include antihistamines such as cetirizine. An allergist is usually consulted when patients do not respond to first-line treatment.
I hope this is helpful,
Duane Wong, M.D.
I am sorry that you're suffering from an itchy skin rash; hives can be unbearable! I would recommend seeking attention from a local physician who can confirm that the skin lesions are, indeed, hives and can help with determining the cause and the best treatment for the rash. Common causes of acute hives, which are hives that have lasted for less than six weeks, would include viral infections, medication allergy (including aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen), and food allergy. Besides avoiding any possible triggers, first-line therapy would likely include antihistamines such as cetirizine. An allergist is usually consulted when patients do not respond to first-line treatment.
I hope this is helpful,
Duane Wong, M.D.
