Hives

Hives rashes usually settle down within a few minutes to a few days. You can often treat hives yourself.

Check if you have hives

A pharmacist can help with hives

Your pharmacist can give you advice about antihistamine tablets to bring down your hives rash.

Tell your pharmacist if you have a long-term condition – you might not be able to take antihistamines.

They also may not be suitable for young children.

See a GP if:

• the symptoms don't improve after 2 days
• you're worried about your child's hives
• the rash is spreading
• your hives keep coming back – you may be allergic to something
• you also have a high temperature and feel generally unwell
• you also have swelling under the skin – this might be angioedema

Treatment from a GP

Your GP may prescribe corticosteroids, menthol cream or stronger antihistamines.

If your hives don't go away with treatment, you may be referred to a skin specialist (dermatologist).

You can't always prevent hives

Hives occur when something causes high levels of histamine and other chemicals to be released in the skin. This is known as a trigger.

Triggers can include:

• food
• pollen and plants
• insect bites and stings
• chemicals
• latex
• dust mites
• heat – work and sleep in a cool room and wear loose, lightweight clothes
• sunlight, exercise or water
• medicines – speak to your GP if you have an allergic reaction
• infections
• emotional stress