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What do hives look like? -

Hives may start as a general red rash, but they soon form into raised patches on the skin. They're usually red, pink, or flesh-colored on lighter skin and may be flesh-colored or slightly lighter or darker than your skin tone on brown or black skin.

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There are many remedies -

If your symptoms are mild, you may not need treatment. Hives often clear up on their own. But treatment can offer relief from intense itching, serious discomfort, or symptoms that persist. Luckily, there are a number of effective ways to get rid of hives. 

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Cold compresses -

Applying something cool, like a cooling cloth or cold pack, to your skin can help relieve irritation and swelling. 

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Cold compresses -

In rare cases, cold can make hives worse, so discontinue this treatment if it doesn't work for you.

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Wear loose clothing -

Putting pressure on your skin, which can happen from wearing tight-fitting clothes or carrying a bag or backpack, can cause hives or make them worse.

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Wear loose clothing -

When treating hives, wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid backpacks, or other items that might rub against your skin.

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Avoid overheating -

When temperature is the cause of hives, try to avoid extreme temperatures if possible. 

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Avoid overheating -

Staying out of the sun or making sure you stay cool when your surroundings are hotter may keep you from experiencing hives. Also, don't forget to put on SPF. 

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Lukewarm baths or showers -

Lukewarm baths or showers can help provide relief from hives. A temperature that's not too hot or cold will prevent hives from being aggravating.

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Lukewarm baths or showers -

Also, make sure to be gentle as you bathe or shower, not rubbing the skin with a washcloth or loofah.

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Oatmeal products -

Oatmeal has long been considered a natural soothing and anti-inflammatory agent. Colloidal oatmeal (oat powder) works to soothe itchy skin by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines.

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Oatmeal products -

Colloidal oatmeal can be found in many body washes, soaps, and moisturizers. You can also add the colloidal oatmeal powder directly to your bath. 

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Witch hazel -

The natural tannins found in the herb witch hazel can help relieve irritation. It can be applied directly to the skin, often throughout the day.

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Witch hazel -

Let it sit on the affected areas for about 20 minutes, and then rinse it off.

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Aloe vera -

Aloe vera is another natural anti-inflammatory plant, which is known for soothing burns and itchy skin. 

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Aloe vera -

Pick a gel with very few added ingredients to reduce the chances of skin irritation. Then, spread a thin layer over your hives. 

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Anti-itch lotions or creams -

Anti-itch lotions or creams can also provide temporary itch relief. For example, calamine lotion, which contains itch-relieving zinc oxide. 

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Anti-itch lotions or creams -

Products containing calamine can help relieve itching by cooling your skin. To use it, cover your hives in a thin layer and allow it to dry on the skin. 

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Fragrance-free products -

While some products may use the label "unscented," they still contain a fragrance. These types of products are formulated in a way that makes them less noticeable to the senses. 

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Fragrance-free products -

It's important to use products without fragrances when you have hives, as they can really irritate your skin. 

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Light therapy -

Light therapy, or phototherapy, uses ultraviolet B (UVB) light to help calm skin cell activity that may lead to hives. 

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Light therapy -

However, this type of therapy takes time to work and may be more helpful for chronic hives.

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Take it easy -

Whether it comes from stress or exercise, the release of adrenaline can cause the development of hives. 

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Take it easy -

Adrenaline can also worsen hives that you already have. Therefore, take it easy and consider skipping the gym until your hives have resolved.

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Food and drink trigger avoidance -

Hives may be part of an allergic reaction, and some foods or drinks may be responsible for why you have hives. 

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Food and drink trigger avoidance -

Keeping track of the foods and drinks you've consumed can help determine if they've caused your hives, and you can start to avoid them. 

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Medications -

If you're experiencing severe or chronic hives, you may need a prescription or over-the-counter medication.

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Medications -

These medications can include oral, topical, or injectable options.

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When to see a doctor -

If your symptoms worsen or last longer than a couple of days, it's best to talk to a doctor. For a severe attack of hives or angioedema, you may need a trip to the emergency room for an emergency injection of epinephrine, a type of adrenaline. Ultimately, understanding your triggers may help prevent future outbreaks.

Sources: (Healthline) (Verywell Health) (Health) (HealthCentral) 

See also: Everyday things you didn’t know you could be allergic to

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