Heat and hives are related in more ways than one. Often fever itself will cause a hives outbreak, but that is not all. One of the main conditions dealing with heat and hive is cholinergic urticaria, in which the patient really breaks out in response to sweat. This form of heat hives can be caused by simply getting angry or getting stressed out.

Localized heat hives is the rarest condition that causes hives from heat. It is however, one of the most sensitive and can be tested simply by the application of heat on the skin. These hives generally don’t last more than an hour though.

You may be wondering if it is heat rash or hives that you are affected by. Most likely it is a rash, as a rash by definition is any inflammation of the skin, but it may or may not be a hives-related condition. Looking at pictures on the web may help you decide if it is hives or heat rash, but you should still seek help from a dermatologist to determine if it is really heat rash and hives. You can find heat rash and hives pictures on Emedicine.com and Cholinergicurticaria.net.

Heat Induced Hives

Conventionally, heat hives treatment involves the use of antihistamines. Most antihistamines can be bought over the counter, although stronger types are prescribed.

Hydroxyzine, Claritin, Zyrtec, Clarinex, and Benadryl are the most commonly used.

Most people try to control hives/heat reactions by avoiding situations where they could be exposed to a heat stimulus. Some people use exercise to raise their body’s tolerance to temperature changes. In addition, acupuncture is one of the leading alternative treatments for hives heat rash.

In some cases doctors treat hives heat rash with anabolic steroids or corticosteroids. These are only used in more severe cases. Sometimes anabolic steroids will bring about remission or temporary relief, but not always. Corticosteroids are usually very helpful. Prednisone, in particular, is good for regulating the immune system. This is great because the immune system is said to be one of the main ‘heat hives’ causes.

Beta blockers are sometimes prescribed to inhibit the nervous symptom’s “flight or fight or flight” response (Cholinergicurticaria.net, 2011). This is sometimes effective, but has been known to have harmful side effects. So, if prescribed be sure to talk to your doctor to weigh out potential risks. Other prescribed medications for urticaria have been known to have side effects as well. Make sure you listen to your doctor but be involved and knowledgeable as well.