Disorders of the immune system can cause hives as well as autoimmune disorders such as systemic lupus (account for about 50% of all cases) which are caused by an immune response against the tissue of one’s own body. It is not understood why the immune system mistakes its own tissues and cells for invaders as it would a virus or bacteria.

Treatments for hives typically concentrate on safe and effective ways to deal with the symptoms. Homeopathy remedies are safe, natural solution to hives. They are made with natural ingredients that tend not to cause drowsiness or negative side effects.

Herbs and botanicals such as aloe vera can aid in reducing inflammation as well as being a soothing relief to the skin. It can be applied directly to the affected area from the leaf or in the form of creams or lotions that can be gently applied for temporary relief. Those involved in alternative medicine recommend aloe juice as a means of addressing the body’s internal imbalances in a more direct manner. Another good all round herbal aid for hives is chamomile.  This, too can be used as a cream for immediate relief or as a tonic as it eases stress which is another known hive trigger.

Many sufferers of allergies rely on medications known as antihistamines. They relieve itching and reduce outbreak intensity. Usually tablets can be taken but for more severe cases there are injections and/or inhalers for those who require immediate attention.

Those who are afflicted with hives are also susceptible to anxiety and stress worsening the condition. Where children are concerned an inhaler is recommended although many adults are seeking alternatives responses such as relaxation therapy. These can consist of deep breathing techniques, yoga and/or low grade aerobic exercises.

Chronic hive sufferers should make an attempt to change their diet to a more hive friendly one high in fiber to ensure proper digestion and immune function. For those who are sensitive to the sun the carotenoids in dark colored vegetables will improve the skin’s resistance.  As essential fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation cold water fish such as salmon should be eaten several times a week; also consider nuts and avocadoes.

Drink water throughout the day. Hydration is one of the best ways to keep the body in good health. It not only helps encourages health to every cell of your body but it flushes the body of the toxins that can be a factor to your condition.

Over 90% of the population has an adverse reaction to Candida albicans, one of the major fungal/yeast factors. That might seem odd when you realize Candida normally and naturally resides within the colon along with several other types of bacteria, fungus or parasites. Although Candida can cause adverse affects to people including hives they serve their purpose by cleaning up toxins and waste in the body as needed. Also growing within the same vicinity are beneficial bacteria whose sole purpose is to keep Candida and other bacteria (unfriendly) under control. The problems arise when the not so friendly yeast begin to outweigh the friendly.

Approximately 10% of Candida sufferers develop hives, eczema, asthma, chronic vaginitis, diarrhea and/or abdominal cramps. Outside of hives and other skin disorders there are immune system disorders, chronic inflammation, extreme fatigue, yeast infections in women, gastrointestinal tract (gas) disorders, panic attacks, psoriasis, dry, itching skin, dermatitis/ dandruff, swollen lips, throat or tongue, urinary tract/prostate gland problems and/or a white coated tongue (thrush).

If your hives are the result of a Candida induced histamine release one of the first things you should do is go through detoxification. It is one of the best ways to clear up fungal/yeast infections, and is how the body can effectively get rid of the toxins and sugar overload Candida feeds on. Detoxification consist of several days of fasting or limiting the bodily intake to fruit or vegetable juices while drinking plenty of water to flush the system. It takes anywhere from 3-14 days depending how bad the infection is or the timeframe you are working within.

Probiotics, live microorganisms similar to the beneficial organisms living in the colon already, and called friendly bacteria as well, are used in complementary/alternative medicine (CAM) to aid in cases of Candida related hives. This is seen more so than ever since it was realized there are cells in the colon directed connected to the immune system.

Because probiotics are known to reduce the severity of the allergies Candida/hive sufferers can supplement their diet with them. They aid in the body’s biochemical processes of strengthening the immune system to combat allergies, especially in conjunction with essential fatty acid such as flaxseed, borage seed or fish oil.

Vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium are essential not only for bodily function but healing as well. Other micronutrients (trace minerals) are often lacking in people who have been diagnosed with allergies resulting in hives or Candidiasis.

Of course getting to the root of the problem is paramount for most chronic sufferers but relief is at the top of the list as well considering that some symptoms are so severe they are able to stop people from being able to productively work or have a normal home life.

Some people who on a day to day basis live with hives have learned to prevent outbreaks by avoiding the allergy, environmental or stress triggers that cause their hives to appear. Overtime they have learned that if it is the sun they cover up when leaving the house.  If it is working in the garden they wear gloves and don’t stay out for long periods at a time. Or if it specific foods they read labels and are careful when eating in unfamiliar places. It is their defense mechanism;   their way to live as normally as possible.

Most hives, even chronic cases clear up on their own—usually within 36-48 hours, although chronic cases can last up to a year or more. Most cases of hives are not life threatening. They come, and are gone with little invasion other than topical inconvenience. If they appear on the face, lips, around the eyes or in the throat they can become serious and even life threatening.

Aloe vera can reduce inflammation and is soothing to the skin, as does the herb chamomile. You can gently apply either in cream or lotion form directly onto the hives for temporary relief. There are several topical creams sold over the counter as well as prescriptions that your doctor can recommend. For areas where itching persists there is calamine lotion for a quick fix.

By drinking aloe vera juice as directed you can begin to address the issue of an imbalance in the body. Chamomile tea will ease stress; replace your coffee with it.  And drink plenty of water as it will work to help keep the body flush of toxins which are notorious for causing hives.

Eating home-made yogurt or yogurts purchased with live proactive bacteria (probiotics)—also known as acidophilus, can help rid the body of inflammation. Use garlic whenever possible as it contains compounds that are anti-viral and anti bacterial. Foods rich in vitamin C help by repairing cells and skin tissue that are damaged and in eliminating the free radicals which could be adding to the problem. Quercetin is a bioflavonoid found in many fruits and a number of vegetables that contain antioxidants to help fight pathogens. The polyphenols in green tea are as helpful to many people as antihistamines are.

Meditation induces physical relaxation as well as mental awareness. Yoga is known for its ability to combine stretching exercises with controlled breathing for relaxation. Exercise helps dispel stress hormones from the bloodstream and stimulates the release of endorphins.

Hives often strike suddenly; they can appear anywhere and usually disappear just as quickly. The first indication is an itchy area on the body followed by redness. Soon the redness gives way to swelling which can lead to burning or stinging as well as the itching.

Although hives can be cause by a number of things (some unknown) common factors are food additives, chemicals in foods themselves (eggs, dairy and some nuts or seafood) drugs (even NSAIDs), household products such as cleaning aids or detergents or other environmental factors such as exposure to heat, sunlight or cold and/or insect bites/stings.

Stress and anxiety can also be instrumental in a reaction that causes hives. All humans respond to threats by either fighting or fleeing (instinctive). While deciding which path to take the body gears up for whatever the response may be. Extra stress hormones (adrenaline as well as cortisol and noradrenaline) are secreted, the heart begins pumping faster, breathing quickens, blood pressure rises, digestion slows and perspiration increases.

By taking physical action the body automatically exhausts the stress hormone. If you, however, do nothing or if in the case of excessive histamine release (for reasons unknown) the stress chemicals often remain in the bloodstream. Creates further anxiety, in many it results in hives.

If you are aware that it is stress—young mothers with four kids under eight years of age, competing for a coveted position or rank in your company or sports field, take measures to help overcome the symptoms the body is experiencing. Change your lifestyle if need be—and let it start with the diet.

The way in which we eat as well as what we eat both, play an important part in our body’s health. If stress and hives seem to go hand in hand in your life eliminate processed foods from your diet along with white flour/sugary foods and those high in calories or fat. Incorporate, instead, foods such as fruits and vegetables from the produce stand, lean cuts of poultry and cold water fish, legumes, nuts and seeds. These will ensure that the digestive system is working well and in turn give our immune system the back-up it needs.

Treatments such as stress management, deep breathing exercises and good old fashioned physical exertion will do more for the body then most give them credit for. Exercise on a regular basis is one of the best stress-reduction techniques you can implement. It improves health, relaxes tense muscles, improves blood flow (getting oxygen filled blood to every inch of the body) and enables a good night’s sleep. It also guarantees the sugars and oxygen your brain requires to function properly and with clarity, will be delivered.

Hives form as an adverse reaction to histamine–a chemical and part of the body’s natural immune system, being released in response to pathogens that are foreign to the body. Histamine is needed in order for capillaries to be able to accept the white blood cells and various other compounds necessary to withstand the invasion of pathogens.

Multiple factors are involved in histamine release—allergic reactions, insect bites/stings, chemicals in foods, food additives and coloring, exposure to sunlight, heat, cold and/or medicines can all cause the process. It is a normal part of our immune’s defense but as those who suffer hives with none of the above as a viable cause, they can be a mystery.

One possibility is the digestive system’s inability to function correctly. For whatever purpose, the waste is being forced from the skin’s excretory system rather than through the colon and eliminated in the normal fashion. If this is the cases the skin is hit with pathogen from all sides.

The aim of a lifestyle or dietary change is to help the body reach and/or maintain optimal immune system health. In many cases a complete dietary revision is essential to solve the problems of chronic hives since food borne chemicals and/or antigens are likely involved. And unfortunately, there are no tests that can reliably identify them.

Check food labels carefully. Stay clear of excess food additives in processed foods as well as yellow #5 food coloring (known to cause hives). Do not take medications such as Bufferin, Excedrine, Alka-Seltzer or Anacin as they all contain aspirin. Also watch those containing salicylates such as Pepto-Bismol.

Since hives are triggered by the histamine release increase the consumption of foods that are high in vitamin B3 (niacin), which has the ability to inhibit its release. Good sources of niacin include seafood, poultry, seeds/nuts and whole grains—including cereals and breads. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush toxins.

Quercetin is a bioflavonoid found in apples, raspberries, red grapes, cherries, citrus fruits, black and green tea, red wine, onions, broccoli, and leafy greens (apples, cherries and berries can cause allergic reactions, so take care) that have beneficial antioxidants to help fight pathogens. Green tea has polyphenols that are beneficial to some as antihistamines.

Those affected by hives should try a high-fiber diet which will automatically improve digestion and reducing the necessity of using skin to expel toxins. Deeply colored vegetables–high in carotenoids will aid the skin in resisting the sun rays. Cold water fish should be eaten several times a week as essential fatty acids aid in reducing inflammation.

In almost all cases of chronic hives there is not a clear cut cause that can easily be identified. While some cases seem be related to an underlying autoimmune disorder (thyroid disease, lupus) others are related to pathogens (often seasonal), food allergies or long periods of stress.

Treatment of antihistamines can help with symptoms in many cases as it is the adverse reaction to the release of histamine in the body that triggers hives in the first place, many do not find relief through their use. For others it may be the elimination, through trial and error, of new products that have inadvertently brought on outbreaks.  It may be wearing clothes that keep the body from being exposed to the sun for any length of time or deny access to biting/stinging bugs.

It may be the digestive system in some cases that is not functioning as it should. This may cause toxins which are normally eliminated through the intestines and rectum to be excreted through the pores of the skin. In this case many people find relief from dietary and/or lifestyles changes.

If your job or family obligations keep you in a constant state of anxiety, stress management measures (deep, slow breathing, yoga) may need to be taken before any lasting results can be found. A good work-out several times a week—or even a walk, will help by getting more oxygen distributed throughout the body as well as automatically causing the body to breath deeper and generally help the digestive system to function more efficiently.

An herbal tea made from an infusion of peppermint, lavender or passionflower is soothing and can help relieve inflammation. Chamomile, valerian and catnip are all sedative type teas that can not only be calming but actually help with stress.

Topical applications such as a poultice of crushed chickweed leaves are useful in relieving the itch also. A strong tea brewed from the leaves and bark of the red alder can be applied topically to affected area, as well as calamine lotion.

Ice cube in a cloth can be placed over the swelled areas. The cold will cause blood vessels to shrink which prevents them from opening or allowing the histamines to be released.  Cold compresses or cold baths can greatly relieve many chronic hive symptoms while hot water makes itching worse.

Typically, over half of all chronic cases of hives go away within a year on their own, with or without treatment. Although some cases can take as long as five years, with a very small percentage of people plagued even longer, this is rare.

Each day, scientists get one step closer to completely curing hives and believe the secret lies in our blood.

Dr. J. Allen Meadows: Root Cause of Hives

Acute hives are those that last less than six weeks and can be caused by such factors as foods, infections, medicines or reactions to such products as latex. Insect sting/bites or several internal disorders can be responsible as well. Foods commonly responsible for hives are nuts, fish, eggs, soy, wheat, diary, fruits such as berries, tomatoes and/or chocolate. Many more fresh foods cause hives than cooked. Also food additives, preservatives or the #5 yellow dyes can be at fault.

Medicines such as antacids, aspirin, ibuprofen or several of the other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) are often triggers of hives as are high blood pressure (ACE inhibitors) or arthritis medications and/or painkillers such as codeine; or even vitamins and other dietary supplements. Acute is defined as painful, severe or extremely serious and describes any case that is severe and comes quickly to full crisis. Depending on where food is absorbed within the digestive tract, hives typically can appear in just minutes or it can be up to two hours after eating.

Chronic hives are those that last longer than six weeks or come and go at a rate of twice a week for over that amount of time. They do not resolve quickly. The cause of this type of hives is usually more difficult to identify (up to 90% of people never able to determine one) than those causing acute although the causes of both may be similar in some cases and may come or go with no apparent triggers at all.

Hives can affect internal organs as well as the skin including muscles, lungs or gastrointestinal tract with symptoms such as muscle soreness, vomiting or diarrhea. Usual chronic hive outbreaks last from 30 minutes to 36 hours with welts and swellings disappearing and new hives developing all the while. Conditions such as heat, exertion or stress can make symptoms worse.

Just under half of the people with chronic hives also have angioedema which has distinctive signs and symptoms that include large welts or swellings occurring around the eyes, lips, hands, feet, genitalia, and (causing a scare to many) on the inside of the throat. Throat swelling can obstruct breathing and can be severe enough to require emergency treatment. Though it itches less than other hives this type can cause burning and/or pain.

Physical hives make up approximately 15% of all chronic hive cases affecting about 5% of the population—usually women. These hives are caused by direct physical stimulation to the skin such as heat or cold, sun exposure, most types of vibration, pressure—even if very light; also sweating, and/or exercise extending to such activities working in the garden.

Known more specifically as cholinergic urticaria this hive disorder can result in a swollen rash of tiny, itchy bumps. They occur within 15 minutes of any type of physical exertion or hot bath/ shower, and are gone just as quickly. This disorder happens more often in young people than other age groups. Other forms of physical hives can be triggered by water, cold and/or sunlight.

The hives of dermatographia (meaning skin writing) typically occurs right where the skin stimulation (stroking or scratching) takes place, rarely appearing elsewhere. They can coincide with other types of hives with most outbreaks forming within the hour, but people with true dermatographism have only pressure as a trigger for their symptoms.

It is unknown why this disorder occurs (there does not need to be antigens present) but an outbreak takes place when something triggers the mast cells under the surface of the skin to release more histamine than is needed. This could be due to weak tissue or membranes in the cell area. This disorder can go on for years, though not life threatening or contagious.

It is, however, annoying at times—particularly when symptoms can be brought on by such everyday occurrences as tight or rough textured clothing, wearing a watch or worse, glasses. Skin stress, even in the form of energetic kissing can try the patience of any sufferer.

Longtime sufferers of hives know that the best remedy is to steer clear of their known triggers as they are not always caused by anything complex or even dangerous or for any good reason. Hives can be a result of anything. When avoidance or detection is not possible there are many good remedies for treating the itch and/or discomfort such as a cold compress over the affected area. Some sufferers recommend a massage to the muscle (trapezium) located between the neck and shoulder for relieve of hive pain.

Hives often have an underlying root connected to the gastro-intestinal tract. Because of this many professional care givers suggest a diet of all fruit—oranges, papaya, apples, grapes and pineapple are just a few, accompanied by plenty of pure water to flush the system of toxins. The science behind this is fruit goes through the system needing little help from the body’s acids or enzymes. They are 85% water themselves and are loaded with fiber to cleanse the colon.

When this has been accomplished begin a well-balanced diet consisting of whole grains, seeds and nuts along with the vegetables and fruits. Seventy percent of each meal should be raw or very lightly steamed with a glass of water with one half of a lemon’s juice in each one hour before meals. This goes along with holistic and homeopathic treatments alike. It is not geared so much at the symptoms as addressing the issues within that are at the root of the condition.

Uticaria, commonly called hives are itching, red welts (swollen areas) or wheals (patches)–usually extended, that appear on the skin. Outbreaks can appear anywhere on the body and typically happen suddenly. Welts vary in appearance ranging from pimple-like spots to rashes spreading over large areas of the body. Hives come and go, a characteristic classifying them as unusual. Though a few hours in normal welts can appear, shift or disappear as you watch.

The skin, with its many layers, is our largest organ and a vital part of the excretory system. This may sound strange but it acts with other systems to remove toxins from the body through the process of sweating. This process helps rid the body of urea, uric acid, excess amounts of water and salt before they can do damage to the body.

Hives, though it is not fully understood as to how or why they exist, are a natural reaction to a presence that is uncharacteristic of, or to, that body. This can be something that has entered the body, something the body is trying to rid itself of or something the body comes in contact with–pesticides, shampoos, soap, residues from laundry products, hair sprays, certain materials from which clothes are made or dry cleaning chemicals.

Typically, hives in young children are caused by allergic reaction to something they have been exposed to such as environmental allergens (plants, chemical, latex, pets), drugs (antibiotics, NSAIDs, penicillin), insect bites or stings (bees, ants, wasps, etc.) or heat (sometimes confused with heat rash). Of the common cause of hives among young children a viral infection-cold, flu, etc., is one of the most common.

Some young children (living in areas where particular pests are a problem) become sensitized to insect bites. This is especially true with flea or mosquito bites and can develop hives at the sites of old bites as well as new ones. These hives outbreaks can last up to 3-4 months.

The most common food allergens causing hives are chocolate, nuts (a small handful of almonds has the chemical content of an aspirin), citrus fruits, berries, grapes or raisins, apples (especially the seeds) eggs, fruits such as apricots, peaches, plums or prunes, food additives, pickles, cucumbers, tomatoes and/or shellfish. In babies six months of age or under a reaction to cow’s milk is common, although most grow out of the allergy.

Keep children who have experienced hives from artificially flavored foods and drinks with yellow dye No. 5 or tartrazine in it. Though this happens in just 1 in 10,000 the color is common in food products, vitamin supplements and medications. Foods high in niacin (vitamin B3) are believed to inhibit histamine release. Good sources would be poultry, fish and whole grains.

Hives often go away on their own, but if treatment is needed antihistamine may be advised to reduce the swelling and/or itching. This medication works whether the hives are caused by a virus or an allergic reaction, and is usually use in the more extreme cases. In very severe cases that do not respond well to antihistamine the use of steroids (anti-inflammatory drug) may be recommended.

One of the most popular over the counter medications for hives is Benadryl (antihistamine). It works the same way on hives as it does for those who suffer allergies affecting the eyes, nose and sinuses. It is not a cure but can help greatly with symptoms. Its main side effect is drowsiness, so be sure to dose accordingly. Be sure to check dosage for children.

Typical treatments include applying calamine lotion to soothe the itching. Also it is a good idea to keep his/her nails trimmed and clean to minimize any skin damage that might be caused by the scratching. Using natural fibers for clothes such as are found in cotton will go easier on the skin as well. A cool bath will relieve itching—this is especially good if the hives are in patches over large areas. Add baking soda to the water or oatmeal as either is good for itching. Ice can be applied wrapped in a washcloth—limit time to 10 minute intervals.

Avoid rubbing hives as it will simply irritate them. For hives that are the result of an insect bite or sting you can make a paste of three teaspoons of baking soda to one teaspoon of water and apply it to relieve localized itching. Also avoid heat as it too is an irritant. Avoid hot water during or just after outbreaks.

Aloe vera gel, chickweed ointment or vitamin E oil as well as regular baby oil can all be gently rubbed into the affected areas twice a day until hives are gone for the relief of itching and for an aid in repairing any damaged skin.

Stress may not be the cause of hives in children but the stress of the hives can add to the problem. Help your child relax by reading to or with him/her a favorite book, or listen to some music he/she is particularly fond of, watch a movie with popcorn or a play a video game together.

Try yoga or some deep breathing together (maybe for the first time) to get rid of tension as well as taking their minds off of the situation. Doing it together will make it fun. Normally exercise is a great way to stay healthy but since strenuous activity can trigger defense reactions to the skin exercise for the most part should be kept to a minimum.

Remember, comfort is the main goal of any treatment for hives. Keep your child as happy and as busy as you can for the duration–which usually is not that long. Both during and after an outbreak avoid tight-fitting clothes as the irritation can prompt a return of hives. Do not send your children to school if hives are noticeable or swelling seems disfiguring. Do not add to his stress.

Call emergency service (911 / 999) if your child does not seem to be able to breathe without difficulty.  This also includes any swelling around or in the mouth or tongue area, any rapid heart beating, nausea or vomiting or if the skin feels clammy and/or cold or if the child loses consciousness.