Chronic hives

Overview

Most chronic hives aren't from allergies.

Chronic hives last more than 6 weeks and usually have no clear cause.

They're rarely from food allergies.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Hives lasting over 6 weeks
• Hives that keep coming back for weeks

Less common

• Swelling of lips or eyes

Look up a symptom: Hives or welts · Hives that keep coming back for weeks · Itching

When to get medical care

Causes

Immune system.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Women

Diagnosis

A clinician reviews.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood tests:

Treatment

Control itch.

Self-care

• Take daily antihistamine
• Avoid heat and tight clothes

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Avoid triggers like heat and tight clothes

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an allergist (allergy and asthma doctor).

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Use gentle, fragrance-free soaps and moisturizers.
• Protect your skin from the sun.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Education and online support for asthma, allergies, and eczema.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Women: More common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some skin medicines, like isotretinoin and retinoid creams, aren't safe in pregnancy.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Often go away.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Should I see an allergist?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Chronic hives