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HIVES
Hives
appear abruptly in reaction to an
internal allergic stimulus and can
cause intense itching.
Urticaria, commonly known
as hives:
These intensely itchy, often circular
eruptions may range in size from that
of a dime to that of a saucer. They
appear abruptly in reaction to an
internal allergic stimulus but have
a short life span.
Hives
have a wide variety of triggers, including
aspirin and other drugs; shellfish,
nuts, berries, Animal dander (especially
cats), and Insect bites; vaccinations
and other injections, including those
given during dental work; and infections,
including mononucleosis. It is only
in roughly a quarter of hive cases,
however, that their cause can be discovered.
They may last one to several hours
before disappearing without a trace,
Calamine lotion can help relive itching.
If hives are severe, a physician may
prescribe an antihistamine or cortisone
drug to be taken orally. The only
truly effective cure, however, is
in discovering and removing the source
of the allergic reaction.
Call
911 or an emergency number for help
if you experience:
-
Tightness in your throat
- Shortness
of breath
- Tongue
or face swelling
- Fainting
- Wheezing
Call
your health care provider if the hives
are severe, uncomfortable, and do
not respond to self-care.
Prevention
- Avoid
exposure to substances that give
you allergic reactions.
- Don't
wear tight-fitting clothing and
avoid hot baths or showers just
after an episode of hives. These
can both cause the hives to return.
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