How to Find Relief From Hives or Wheals

by Dr Susan Jewell MD

Most of us have experienced hives or wheals at one time. They usually occur due to an allergic reaction to some stimuli and are characterized by red, itchy, inflamed raised areas of skin. Certain medications, drugs, insect bites, foods and other allergens bring on hives by releasing histamines from cells which cause blood vessels to leak fluid into the deepest layers of the skin. This article will offer some tips for treating a flare-up of hives.

1 Hives are caused by the body’s natural response to an allergen, so the best way to treat a simple flare-up is to use over-the-counter antihistamines such as Benadryl or Chlor-Trimeton.

2 Temporary relief from hives can be obtained by using soothing cool compresses. Make ice cube compresses by placing ice into a cotton towel and leaving the compress on the hives for 4- to 5-minute intervals. The cold temperature shrinks the blood vessels and stops them from swelling and reduces the amount of the histamines released from the cells.

3 Topical hydrocortisone cream can give temporary relief from the itch from small hives.

4 The use of astringents and lotions like calamine can help remove the intense itch from the hives. Some astringents can also reduce the discharge of fluids and histamines from the blood vessels. Try using witch hazel and zinc oxide as astringents.

5 Try natural treatments for hive flare-ups. Make a paste or poultice of crushed chickweed leaves or a paste of water and cream of tartar and apply it to the hives.

6 Hives can have underlying emotional and stress components, so try ways to reduce the stress in your life. Drinking herbal teas and beverages can help soothe and calm the nerves. Drink chamomile valerian or catnip teas; they are known to have sedative properties.