When someone is breaking out in hives, throwing up, and itching all over, the most common thought is that they are having an allergic reaction. While this could be the cause, the fact is that hives, especially when they are not a chronic problem, are more often caused by a virus or an infection. With viral hives, throwing up is actually quite common.
Remember that hives are an immune system response and the immune system does respond to hives. In toddlers and children especially, hives, throwing up, and a fever is a pretty good sign that the immune system is trying to fight off a virus. The immune system will release histamine in its attempt to fight off the virus, and that is the cause of the hives. The hives will be extremely itchy, and can remain after the vomiting has subsided. Try some antihistamine medication, either oral or in an ointment. If the fever gets high or the throat begins to swell, medical attention should be sought right away.
Infection Could Be The Culprit
The body’s immune system reacts to infections much the same as a virus. Hives, throwing up, and other symptoms appear in the same way, and are just as bothersome. But with infection induced hives, the symptoms usually appear after the body begins to clear the infection. Even something as common as a cold can cause these symptoms. The vomiting won’t last long in this case, but the hives may persist for a couple weeks. Again, an antihistamine will help alleviate the hives. Hives are difficult to live with for anyone, but to have them even for a couple of days can be difficult to bear. Try to get rid of them before further scratching make the hives worse.
An Allergic Reaction Can Cause Both Hives, Throwing Up To Appear Quickly
If the hives and vomiting seem to come out of nowhere there is a good possibility it is the result of an allergic reaction. In these cases, the symptoms appear quickly and can often disappear just as quickly. The hives can be dealt with the same way, with an antihistamine of some sort, but caution should be taken to be sure it is not a more serious reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and needs immediate attention.
More than half the cases of hives go undiagnosed and can be very difficult to live with. If you never find the reason but the hives persist, you will need to find a treatment to help you get rid of the hives. It will need to be something more than antihistamines, which are not a long-term solution.
