Hives, also known as urticaria, manifest as red, raised, itchy welts on the skin and often result from an allergic reaction to food, medication, or environmental factors. They can appear suddenly, change shape, and move across the body. In most cases, hives in Brick or Wall, NJ, are temporary and resolve within a few hours or days without lasting effects. Common triggers include certain foods like nuts or shellfish, insect bites, pollen, or medications like antibiotics.
While hives can be uncomfortable and distressing, they are often harmless. However, if you experience severe swelling, have difficulty breathing, feel lightheaded, or notice swelling around your face or throat, this could indicate a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention. If your hives are persistent, especially if they recur without an identifiable trigger or significantly interfere with your daily life, it's advisable to contact Ocean Allergy for a thorough evaluation.
Understanding Hives: Causes, Symptoms, and Triggers
Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, itchy welts on the skin caused by an immune response triggered by various factors. They typically manifest as red or flesh-colored bumps, often accompanied by itching, burning, or stinging sensations. These welts vary in size and shape and can appear anywhere on your body.
Several factors can incite hives. Allergies to certain foods like nuts and shellfish, medications, antibiotics, or reactions to insect stings can prompt their sudden onset. Environmental factors like extreme temperatures, stress, or infections might also contribute. In some cases, underlying health conditions such as thyroid disorders or autoimmune diseases might provoke hives.
Symptoms of hives often come on abruptly and may disappear within a few hours or persist for days. For many, the primary sign is the appearance of raised, itchy welts that change shape and location. They can be mild or severe, leading to swelling in the throat and making breathing difficult—this requires immediate medical attention.
The emotional stress resulting from hives in Brick or Wall, NJ, can exacerbate symptoms. Understanding triggers through a journal, managing stress, and seeking medical advice for severe or recurrent cases can help mitigate hives. While rarely life-threatening, they can significantly impact daily life, urging the importance of identifying and managing their causes.
How an Allergist Can Help Treat Hives
An allergist manages hives by identifying triggers through a detailed medical history and tests. Treatment involves antihistamines to relieve itching and swelling. For severe cases, allergists perform corticosteroids or immune-modulating medications. The goal is to alleviate symptoms and prevent future outbreaks, tailoring care to individual needs.
Please explore our website to learn about the conditions we treat and the services provided. If you're experiencing unexplained hives in Brick or Wall, NJ, don't postpone an appointment with an allergist to identify potential triggers and find effective treatment, reclaiming control over your skin and overall well-being. Consider a consultation with our professionals at Ocean Allergy at one of our two locations. Call (732) 458-2000 for our Brick office and (732) 681-8700 for our Wall location.