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Control Hives (Urticaria)

Don’t worry about how to control urticaria. There are a lot of different ways to control hives. Since hives is really just a symptom of an immunity problem, you must first learn how to take care of your body so that your immune system can function properly. After that it is not hard to learn how to control hives.

In order to control hives, it is important to figure out what situations to avoid. Do you have hive reactions in times of stress or nervousness? Do the reactions occur more frequently after intense exercise or exposure to heat? Many times people have a hard time telling exactly what triggers their hives reaction. Keeping a journal of what activities you’ve done, what medications you taken, and what foods you’ve eaten is a good way to narrow down potential triggers.

One of the most basic ways to control hives is to drink a lot of water. In some people hives are the result of the digestive system functioning incorrectly, and so waste is forced through the skins excretory system (Adulthives.com, 2011). In any case, drinking water regularly is key to keeping your body free of toxins and functioning well.

Eating foods with plenty of vitamin C is also very in important when trying to control urticaria. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables will help you to achieve this. A diet of salmon-like fish, poultry, and whole grains is also recommended, along with foods high in quercetin such as apples, grapes, cherries, green tea, broccoli, and leafy greens. Many of these foods are high in antihistamines and antioxidants.

 

Other Tactics

 

People often have problems be able to control urticaria in times of stress or anxiety. This could be because of the distraction, but often times it is due to the stress inhibiting the immune system. If you feel like you are going to be under stress or in situations that make you anxious, you may want to take higher doses of antihistamine that day. Taking cool showers also release histamine from your skin, so you might try that to try and control hives.

Treatments for hives often include antihistimines such as Claritin, Zyrtec, Clerinex, and Allegra. Oral steroids may also be administered to control urticaria. There is not much available to relieve itching. Many people turn to natural remedies, such as Aloe Vera or Mint for this. You will want to avoid penicillin or anything that contains aspirin, because this often triggers hives.  Other tips to help control hives are:

  • Avoid heat
  • Stay away from alcohol
  • Try not to scratch
  • Wear loose clothes
  • Wear cotton fabrics

How to Prevent Hives

So, you want to know how to prevent hives. It isn’t easy, but with a few personal changes it is possible. The problem that most people have when learning how to prevent hives starts with the misconception that hives is an allergic reaction. They believe that the symptoms of the reaction are what ought to be treated. This is wrong. Hives are a direct result of an immune problem. Although certain things may trigger a physical reaction of the skin, the basis of the problem lies within the body’s inability to react correctly.

Keeping a healthy, balanced body is your first step when trying to prevent hives. A good diet that supports your immune system problem is essential. For people with hives, a diet with high amounts of vitamin C is recommended. Though vitamin C can be found in all fruits and vegetables, you can get the largest amount by eating dark or leafy greens such as turnip greens, spinach, and green peppers. Strawberries, tomatoes, citrus fruits, fruit juices, and cantaloupe are also great sources of the vitamin.

Drinking large amounts of water can be very helpful. You’ll also want to begin eating foods that are high in B12, some of these include eggs, poultry, fish like salmon, dairy and soy products. B3 (niacin) is also good for you; these include whole grains such as cereal and breads, as well as seeds and nuts, poultry and seafood. Be careful though, as sometimes nuts and seafood have been known to spur reactions.

The most highly recommended part of a hives diet is intake of quercetin. This is because it has natural antihistamines and antioxidants. Quercetin can be found in apples, raspberries, red grapes, cherries and berries, leafy greens, broccoli, onions, red wine, and green tea, among other things.

 

Other Tactics Used to Prevent Hives

 

Livestrong.com suggests keeping a journal to keep track of frequent outbreak. This journal should include the foods that you have eaten, medications that you have taken, as well as any instances where you were nervous, exposed to extreme heat or cold, or exercised heavily. These are all common triggers that may cause a hive reaction in the skin. By keeping track, you may be able to narrow down what is triggering your reactions and simply avoid those exposures.

A person that has hives often may need to avoid extreme temperatures at any time. This includes baths or showers. Cool baths are less likely to irritate skin, and can help relieve itching or burning symptoms.

Many people want to know how to prevent hives when nervous. Reactions can be typical in situations of anxiety, nervousness, and stress. These situations are hard to avoid. The answer is simple. Taking Benadryl when stressed hinders the histamines that cause reactions. Just remember that it may make you drowsy too.

Finally, wear clothing that is made of cotton or other natural fibers that can breathe. Use these fabrics for bedding as well. Keep clothing loose and comfortable, and do not use material that will make you sweaty or itch, such as wool. Lightweight or breathable fabrics are especially important in periods following a hives attack.


Idiopathic Urticaria Angioedema

Idiopathic urticaria angioedema is a form of a very common illness experienced by countless people across the world. Angioedema is commonly called hives, and exists in many many forms. Some of the common and well-documented forms of angioedema include hereditary and acquired.

Acquired angioedema occurs when symptoms are caused by a common irritant that most people are prone to, such as drug reactions or other chemical irritants. Hereditary angioedema also requires some form of stimulus for the symptoms to occur, but has a genetic history within one’s family.

One common link between almost all forms of angioedema are its symptoms, which include swelling of the skin, itchiness and irritation, and other similar issues. Side effects of this swelling and irritation abound as well, and can result in temporary blindness due to the inability to open the eyes, trouble breathing, and even a lack of ability to move in more acute cases.

In the event that the larynx (or commonly, the throat area) is being constricted, this can be a potentialyl fatal problem which requires immediate medical attention. However, in many cases, even acute angioedema can be waited out, unless the symptoms exceed six hours. Past this point, there needs to be medical assistance acquired regardless.

Uticaria angioedema is the form of the illness in which red, exceptionally irritated skin is one of the primary symptoms of this illness. Due to the itchiness of the skin, one must treat the need to scratch it immediately. Like other skin irritations, scratching and rubbing at the itch can result in further irritation or damage of the skin. In very mild cases of angioedema, a simple topical solution to reduce the itching and sensitivity is a good first measure to prevent this particular side effect. However, don’t use a topical analgesic without having first consulted with your physician.

Idiopathic forms of this illness are more problematic. The term “idiopathic” means that it is of, pertaining to or designating a disease with no definite known cause. In other words, sufferers of idiopathic angioedema have cases where the stimuli are not definitely known. This is exceptionally dangerous in situations where the symptoms are particularly acute, obviously. According to some journals, some 50% of angioedema cases are idiopathic at this time.

Living with Angioedema and Urticaria

In living with the symptoms of angioedema and urticaria, one should be proactive. If the disease is idiopathic in one’s case, then avoiding known irritants that are common among non-idiopathic cases is a good place to start. While the idiopathic nature of the case means these are not definite stimuli, they also can’t be ruled out.

Having a good medical workup with one’s physician is an excellent idea, because if the symptoms are acute, then they will be able to treat the symptoms much more effectively in a hospital when they occur. There do exist very effective treatments to keep the symptoms from becoming fatal and eventually, in most cases, get the swelling and irritation to begin to reverse.

Urticaria and angioedema are often problems that go hand in hand, so it’s also important to know the best ways, in mild cases, to treat swelling in flesh as well as irritation. Again, though, one should always consult their physician before trying a new remedy for the skin irritation or swelling that these illnesses bring about. One can not be too careful!

In any case of urticaria and angioedema, if the swelling lasts longer than six hours, medical help should be sought immediately.


Natural Cures for Hives

More and more people are turning to natural cures for hives. This is because conventional medications often cause drowsiness and other side effects. Also, although these medications treat the symptoms of hives quite well they can only do so much to prevent reoccurrences or lessening of hive flares all together. Let’s face it, if you want to solve a problem you have to treat it at the source.

Herbal medicines and natural treatments such as acupuncture have been used for skin disorders, such as hives, since approximately 3AD. According to ABC News, acupuncture is the most commonly reported alternative treatment for hives (Abcnews.go.com, 2008). One study conducted at the Isfahan University of Medical Science in Iran, ultimately showed that acupuncture was able to reduce the episode rate and duration of urticaria (chronic hives) by up to 25% (Acufinder.com, 2011).

Hives natural cures often involve the use of herbs in their treatment. Many herbs can not only relieve irritation and inflammation, but can even heal as they do. Mint and sandalwood are two herbs that are popular in treating hives. Evening primrose oil has also been known to help with symptoms. Many people apply Aloe Vera gel to infected are because not only does it heal the skin, it provides immediate relief as well.

 

Natural Cures & Hives

 

Using preventative measures is the first step to take if you want to cure your hives for good. It has been done, even in chronic cases. Try your best to figure out what is triggering your reactions and avoid it. Common triggers include certain foods, certain medications, over-exposure to heat or cold, stress, anxiety, and overexertion in exercise or sports. You can more information on common triggers at Herbs2000.com.

Also, on Herbs2000.com you can find more information on natural cures for hives. Homeopathy is one technique that they point out, and it has been said to cure hives completely. Homeopathy was developed in Germany about 200 years ago and is based on the concept of ‘like cures like’. For example, you may have allergies that make your eyes water, exposing yourself to another substance that makes your eyes water will cause your symptoms to subside. So, in this case you may expose yourself to an onion to counter your symptoms.

Homeopathy may sound silly, but there are many people out there that say it works. The National Center for Complementary Medicine states that there is little evidence to support homeopathy, however in randomized placebo-controlled trials positive effects were reported, along with unique physical and chemical properties of homeopathic remedies. They do advise that it should not be a replacement for conventional care, and should be discussed with your healthcare provider beforehand (Nccam.nih.gov, 2011).


Hives Herbal Remedies

Many people are turning to hives herbal remedies as a way of treating their condition. The conventional treatment for hives is usually various forms of antihistamines, which can be prescribed or bought over-the-counter. However, these often cause drowsiness and may hinder a person’s ability to concentrate.

While some might argue that hives are best treated with conventional medicines, many hives herbal remedies have proved themselves very effective. In addition, they cause fewer side effects than other medications. In any case, being open with your physician is important, especially if you have chronic hives.

A lot of these hives herbal remedies have been around for centuries. For example, sandalwood essential oil was traditionally used by Native Americans for its calming and cooling affects. Mint is another example of herbs that have been around for centuries, and is still found to be a safe and effective treatment. These are also two of the most commonly used herbal remedies.

 

Herbal Treatments

 

Self-growth.com gives a great method for using mint to treat hives. You begin by basically making tea with crushed mint leaves.  Seep 2 teaspoons of mint leaves in boiling water for about 5 minutes. Afterwards, take the solution and make ice cubes out of it. Applying these ice cubes to the irritated and inflamed area sooths both the inflammation and irritation.

Sandalwood oil is known to be a sedative for the skin. It is known for its cooling and healing properties. For this treatment, add several drops of this oil to a cotton ball and apply it to the infected area every three hours. It can also be used in powder form. Home-remedies-for-you.com advises mixing this powder with rose water to forms a paste that you can apply to the hives for instant relief.

Another one of the most popular hives herbal remedies is Aloe Vera. Aloe Vera remedies have been around for centuries; it has always been mainly used for skin conditions such as burns, skin irritations, and for healing and treating wounds. This not only heals hives by promoting tissue regeneration, but also provides immediate relief to itching and burning.

There are many beneficial herbs that are known to be helpful with hives. Talking to herbalists, naturopaths, or even health care providers that have been trained in herbal medicine is helpful. The following is a list of herbs that have been known to be helpful in treating hives:

  • Alfalfa
  • Bilberry extract
  • Cat’s claw
  • Chamomile
  • Ginseng
  • Evening primrose oil
  • St. John’s wart
  • Lemon balm

Hives Herbal Treatment

Whether you have an acute case of hives or a chronic case (urticaria) there are hives herbal treatments available for you. Even when seeking the right hives herbal treatment, it is important to consult your doctor. This is because certain supplements and herbs may actually interfere with the medications that you usually take.

Hives are believed to be caused by allergens, but the underlying cause is actually an overactive immune system. However, hives are usually triggered by certain substances. The first step to a hives herbal treatment is to try to identify the things that may trigger this allergic reaction so that they can be avoided. According to Herbs2000.com, common immune system triggers are:

  • An insect bite or sting
  • Fluctuations in temperature
  • Emotional Pressure
  • Excessive scratching
  • Shellfish
  • Food additives

 

Aspirin, penicillin, or other medications may trigger hives too. Preservatives, food stabilizers found in foods such as milk, strawberries, eggs, and nuts have been known to be potential triggers, along with some flavorings and food coloring substances. Urticaria in particular seems to be triggered by intense exercise or physical activity, stress, and even just high body temperatures. Hives can be further aggravated by coffee, cigarettes, and alcohol, so stay away from these substances if you are trying to cure or remedy hives.

 

Helpful Herbal Remedies

 

There are many various herbs that naturopathic doctors and herbalists would recommend for hives herbal treatment. Selfgrowth.com recommends the following common remedies for hives herbal treatment:

Quercetin– This is a plant pigment that is found in leafy green vegetables, onions, apples, and other natural foods. It works because it is a natural antihistamine. A dose of 500 milligrams a day is normally recommended.

Sandalwood Essential Oil – this is a traditional Native American remedy for hives. They believed hives to be a fiery condition, so they used the oil for its calming and cooling effects. Herbalists today say it is a great sedative for the skin. It only takes a few drops. Apply the oil to a cotton ball and rub it onto the affected area, then repeat every three hours.

Mint – This herb is often used for its cooling effects. Mint oil can be used to soothe the irritation that is brought about by hives. Many people make mint ice cubes to treat hives with. To make these, simply seep 2 teaspoons of freshly crushed mint leaves in boiling water for 5 minutes. Strain the tea into an ice cube tray and place it in your freezer. When frozen, apply the cubes directly to the skin in the area of the irritation or inflammation.


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Hives Herbal Remedy

Urticaria, otherwise known as chronic hives, is a skin condition in which an outbreak of itchy red welts may occur anywhere on the body. People are beginning to turn to hives herbal remedy treatments more and more often. This is because often medications are either not effective or hives begin to reappear once the medications have stopped. Many herbalists and healthcare providers have found that hives herbal remedy treatments work because they treat the body as a whole, instead of just treating the symptoms.

There are several different things which can trigger reactions that cause hives. According to Livestrong.com these include certain foods, medications, bacteria, or viruses. Allergens such as pollen and latex have been known to trigger hives, but many believe that this could be caused by a reaction of an over active immune system as well.

Before beginning to use a hives herbal remedy, try to take notice of what may be triggering your reactions. Milk, some fruits, eggs, and nuts are potential triggers. Uticaria, in particular, has been known to be triggered by overly-intensive exercise, stress, or a high body temperature. Once you identify what triggers the source of the problem, and learn to avoid it, then hives herbal remedy treatments can be implemented to help support your immune system and boost your overall health (Herbs2000.com, 2011).

 

Known Remedies for Hives

 

Probably the most commonly used hives herbal remedy is Aloe Vera gel. Aloe Vera is a plant that has been used for centuries in various skin treatments such as burns, skin irritations and wounds. This plant has been found to have antimicrobial properties which promote tissue regeneration (Livestrong.com, 2011).

Hives-treatment.com recommends taking regular doses of quercetin. This can be found in onions, apples, leafy greens, and other natural foods. This has been known to reduce or even completely eliminate hives in people because it acts as an antihistamine. Mint or mint oil has been known to sooth irritation. Sandalwood is also recommended both as a oil or as a paste.

The use of supplements is often recommended to help with hives. Vitamin C and vitamin B12 are known to be the most important.  Beta-carotene has also been noted to be help in some cases. A well balanced diet is also essential to keeping your body strong and healthy.

When you are trying something new, take small doses and give your body time to react to ensure your safety. In addition, speak to a healthcare professional for a better understanding of what doses to use and what side effects to watch out for when taking either supplements or herbs. In cases of chronic hives, you should seek professional help for both supervision and remedy.


Urticaria Diet

If you are looking for an urticaria diet to help with your symptoms, there are plenty of suggestions out there. There is also a lot of information to have to sort through. Basically, the fundamentals are all the same. This article will help you to find the diet for urticaria that best fits you.

All of the diets that have to do with hives suggest foods that are high in vitamin C. Foods that are high in vitamin C include dark green vegetables and citrus fruits. Some websites suggest that taking vitamin E along with vitamin C is even more affective in helping the immune system. Asparagus, lettuce, peas, and sunflower seed are examples of foods with vitamin E.

As a general rule, stay away from foods that have been fermented. These include cheese, soy products, alcoholic beverages and vinegar. These foods are high in histamines. Foods such as eggplant and spinach are also high in histamine. In addition, high levels of histamine can be found in food additives as well.

 

Chronic Urticaria Diet

 

For a chronic urticaria diet, an elimination diet is best. This type of diet removes all the foods that are potential allergens. Read the following to have a better understanding of what should be eaten and what should be eliminated:

Milk and Dairy: You can drink plain milk or ricotta cheese, but do not eat yogurt, buttermilk, or plain cheese.

Breads and Cereals:  For the most part, it is fine to eat breads which are homemade or fresh as long as they don’t have artificial colors, artificial flavors, or preservatives. Breakfast cereals should be made of plain grains or oats, cream of wheat or puffed rice. Cookies or pie should be homemade without baking mixes.

Vegetables: you should avoid eggplant, pumpkin, sauerkraut, spinach, tomato, and tomato products.

Fruits: Apple, banana, cantaloupe, figs, grapefruit, and watermelon are examples of fruits that are good for you. Apricot, cherry, orange, pineapple, strawberries and plums are some that should be avoided.

Meat, Poultry, and Fish:  Avoid processed meats, leftover cooked meats, and shellfish.

This information was found at Urticaria.thunderworksinc.com. Visit the website for a complete listing of foods to be avoided and those that are okay to eat. You can also find information on the elimination diet at Livestrong.com.

 

Pressure Urticaria Diet

 

In 1986 there was a study made in which patients with pressure urticaria were able to manage their urticaria without medications because of a restricted diet (exclusion diet). What they found suggests that food sensitivity may be a factor in this type of urticaria. For a urticaria patient, it also shows how much or a role a healthy diet can play in our body’s recovery. If you would like more information on this study, please visit PubMed.gov.


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