How Can I Manage Chronic Hives?

Do you know what your triggers are and do you avoid them?

Do you avoid overheating?

Do you wear loose-fitting, cotton clothes?

Do you use an odorless moisturizer several times a day?

Do you avoid scratching?

Do you avoid using harsh soaps?

Do you practice soothing the affected area with a bath, fan, or a cold cloth?

Do you use over-the-counter anti-itch medication, such as antihistamines or calamine lotions?

Do you follow your treatment plan created by your doctor?

Do you try to avoid stressful situations?

Do you apply sunscreen before you go outside?

If self-help steps don't help, have you talked to your doctor about finding the prescription drugs that work best for you?

Based on your answers, there are several other ways that can help you manage chronic hives. The most important thing is to know your triggers and avoid them. If that is not the case, you can monitor your flare-ups and try to find out what triggers them. Think about what you did, what you ate, and so on. You can use over-the-counter anti-itch medication (antihistamines). You can also soothe the affected area with a fan, a cold cloth or a bath. Try not to scratch because that will only make your hives worse. You can use moisturizer several times a day to prevent the skin from drying out.

Based on your answers, you know a lot about how to manage chronic hives. It is necessary to follow the treatment plan created by your doctor in order for the treatment to be effective. Try to avoid stressful situations because stress can often trigger hives. Regular exercise, meditation and mindfulness exercises are healthy ways to reduce stress. If possible, you should often wear loose, light clothing and avoid overheating, because the heat can cause hives within minutes. Also, avoid using harsh soaps that can further irritate your skin. Try not to forget to apply sunscreen before going outside. Your doctor may also suggest various medications that can help.