The term hives makes reference to raised regions on the skin which are usually so itchy that patients with the condition look out for ways to manage hives. The causative agents of hives are allergens thereby resulting in allergic reactions. These allergens may result from physical contact or ingestion of foods or medication that contains the said allergens. Once the allergens come into contact with the body, this triggers a cascade of reactions that releases histamines into blood circulation. Histamines are usually produced as a defense mechanism against foreign objects, but in individuals with hives, this reaction is heightened severely.
Who is Predisposed to Developing Hives?
Knowing who is at risk of developing hives allows the affected individuals to know how to better manage hives. People who suffer from allergies are more predisposed to developing this condition. Those who suffer from hay fever are also at risk. It has also been observed that individuals who have been infected with different conditions are prone to developing hives. You will be able to identify hives by the sections of welts that break on the skin at the affected areas. These regions may be red in color, but some patients attest to the fact that the hives retain their skin color. They are usually round, but some form large randomly-shaped sections that can easily spread from one part of the body to another.
The first and major step to learning how to manage hives is to identify the specific cause as this will differ from one individual to another. To do this effectively, your doctor will determine what reactions you have using a physical examination. In extreme cases, the attending doctor will also carry out skin and blood tests particularly if it was an allergic reaction. Consequently, first aid treatment depends on the severity of the condition. In mild reactions, the doctor may offer you the option of medication that has anti-histamines such as diphenhydramine. The doctor will also have the patient avoid scratching the irritated area. Extreme cases of hives will require a shot of epinephrine to relieve the symptoms faster. In severe cases of hives, the use of epinephrine is preferred because it allows for the constriction of blood vessels, thus leading up to a reduction in swelling of the affected regions. To learn more about helping with medication and the legal implications of doing so attend first aid classes (click here to find a provider) in North America. Classes such as standard and emergency first aid cover such topics as recognizing and managing allergic reactions and anaphylaxis.
Are Hives Preventable?
Part of learning how to manage hives involves making lifestyle changes in line with the causative agents. Total avoidance of the allergens in the case of hives may not be possible, but is advisable. The other option is to take allergy shots as a preventive measure. Other ways to curb hives include wearing clothes that are not ill-fitting as this has been shown to trigger outbreaks of the condition. The use of medication is a great option, but it is important to know that hives have no real cure. In many cases, the hives will clear after two weeks or so, but chronic cases of the same may drag on even for years. Knowing how to manage hives is imperative.