Hives
Alternate Names : Urticaria
What are the treatments for the condition?
Hives can be treated in the following ways:
identifying and removing the substance that provoked the outbreak
using oral antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, cetirizine or loratadine
using oral corticosteroids such as prednisone
giving epinephrine for anaphylaxis
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Both oral antihistamines and oral corticosteroids can have side effects, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation and the inability to urinate. Antihistamines, especially the older ones such as diphenhydramine, can cause more severe reactions in the elderly.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Hives generally clear up without any long term problems. It is important to identify the cause, however, and treat any underlying conditions.
How is the condition monitored?
If hives occur frequently, a healthcare provider should be consulted.
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