Sassafras Station

It’s estimated that 15% of Americans will get hives sometime in their lives. Hives are caused by the release of histamines into the tissue – this simply means that you have an allergic reaction to something. Common causes of hives are stress or anxiety, foods (like nuts, chocolate, milk, eggs, shellfish, and tomatoes) detergents or other things your skin comes into contact with and medications. Both prescription and over the counter medication has the ability to cause hives.

So what do they look like? Hives are a rash of red or white, raised bumps. They can be single, in patches, or even rings. They can range in size from a few millimeters to several inches long. They can also start out small and get bigger, even joining up with other hives to cause large patches. They cause intense itching and sometimes burning. They can even cause nausea.

To help relieve the itching and burning of hives try taking a bath in oatmeal or add a few tablespoons of baking soda to your bath. You can also add several drops of chamomile essential oils to your bath to help soothe your skin.

Putting aloe vera gel on the skin can also be beneficial. It not only soothes the skin but also helps it from becoming infected.

To fight hives from the inside out try drinking green tea. Green tea has been shown to act as a natural antihistamine. Drink 3 cups a day while you have symptoms.

If the above suggestions don’t work you may have to try an over the counter medication. Antihistamines like Benadryl and Claritin can help get rid of hives.

Because hives are a sign of an allergic reaction you need to pay attention to other more serious side effects. If you experience shortness of breath, tongue swelling, or feelings like your throat is closing in you need to get to a hospital right away. Also if you think your hives are due to an allergic reaction to a medication your doctor prescribed contact him right away. He’ll want you to stop the medication right away and he’ll prescribe something else. You’ll want to let your pharmacist know of your allergy so he/she can make a note of it.

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