What is the fastest way to relieve itching from hives?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on December 09, 2024
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Urticaria is a type of allergic disease that generally causes large areas of hives to appear rapidly all over the body, accompanied by severe itching. A quick method to relieve itching is the topical application of calamine lotion extensively and taking oral antihistamines, such as loratadine tablets. In cases of acute flare-ups, it may be appropriate to use hormone-based medications, such as dexamethasone injection, administered intravenously or through infusion, as these act quickly. For chronic urticaria treatment, it is generally advised against the use of hormones; standard oral antihistamines should suffice. Urticaria tends to recur; therefore, it's important to maintain a controlled diet and lifestyle habits. Foods and substances to avoid include chili peppers, mutton, seafood, and alcohol.

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Measles and Urticaria Distinction

Measles and hives have significant differences. Firstly, hives are an allergic disease and are not contagious, whereas measles is a viral infectious disease that can be spread through contact. Secondly, the treatment for hives mainly involves antiallergics, while the treatment for measles mainly includes symptomatic and antiviral therapies. However, regardless of whether it is measles or hives, it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly after onset.

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Symptoms of urticaria in children

The symptoms of urticaria in children generally include the appearance of erythema and patches of varying sizes on the skin. Some patches may be bright red and then look more obvious. Systemic symptoms can occur, and some children may experience nausea, vomiting, etc. At this time, it may be considered to be caused by allergic factors, and it is necessary to come to the hospital as soon as possible to ascertain the cause in the child. Avoid contact with allergens and then conduct anti-allergy treatment according to the child's condition. If the child's skin scratch test is positive, it can confirm that the child has urticaria. Generally, urticaria subsides quite quickly, and it is considered a specific type of disease.

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Written by Qu Jing
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How is urticaria best treated?

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, occurs when there is a localized swelling due to temporary increased vascular permeability of the skin and mucous membranes. It can be divided into acute urticaria and chronic urticaria. Acute urticaria often has a sudden onset. Chronic urticaria is characterized by recurrent skin lesions for more than six weeks, with episodes occurring at least twice a week, termed as chronic urticaria. The preferred treatment for acute urticaria is the use of second-generation H1 receptor antagonists with a strong sedative effect. The combination of vitamin C and calcium supplements can reduce vascular permeability and have a synergistic effect with antihistamines. For chronic urticaria, the treatment of choice is also second-generation H1 receptor antagonists. When one medication is ineffective, two to three drugs may be combined or alternated. It is also recommended to combine Chinese medicine to adjust the overall physical condition while gradually reducing the dosage of Western medicine to control the condition.

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Where to apply moxibustion for acute urticaria

In cases of acute urticaria, it is advised to promptly visit a hospital and undergo treatment under the guidance of a doctor. This is because moxibustion is a slow treatment method and is not very effective for acute urticaria. However, if urticaria occurs in normal circumstances, it can be slowly treated through moxibustion, which can achieve therapeutic purposes. Moxibustion mainly plays a supplementary role. Initially, moxibustion can be applied to acupoints such as Quchi, Dazhui, and Sanyinjiao to maintain health and achieve effective conditioning.

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Urticaria is not contagious.

Urticaria is a hypersensitive skin disease related to the immune system, often occurring in patients with allergic constitutions. Urticaria is not contagious, so there is no need to worry about that. The causes of urticaria are mainly related to food, food additives, viral or bacterial infections, medications, and environmental factors such as climate and pollen. Therefore, if urticaria occurs, it is crucial to promptly identify the allergen and actively avoid triggers to prevent its occurrence. If urticaria does occur, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly.