Hives, or urticaria, is a patchy outbreak of irritated, swollen bumps. They can appear anywhere on the skin or mucous membranes, come in a variety of sizes, and may cause pain or itchiness. The bodily mechanism that causes hives is the histamine release from the body’s cells in response to a stimulant. Identifying the cause is the key to managing hives and finding allergy relief.  

Potential Causes of Hives

1. Allergies

Allergic reactions are by far the most common reason behind hive outbreaks. Food allergies, particularly to citrus fruits, have been known to cause hives. Other frequent culprits include shellfish, peanuts, eggs, tree nuts, dairy, and some medications. 

Hives can arise in people with hypersensitivity towards insect bites and stings. Potential sources include bees, wasps, bedbugs, fleas, and mosquitoes. They can also come from exposure to pollen, latex, and animal dander. 

If your allergic reaction also includes airway constriction or any trouble swallowing, be sure to visit an allergy expert. You could be experiencing a severe reaction, and visiting a professional will allow them to ease your allergy symptoms before they can worsen. 

2. Sunlight

Also referred to as a sun allergy, solar urticaria causes outbreaks of hives on skin exposed to sunlight. The ultraviolet light activates a release of histamines in your skin, leading to an inflammatory response that appears as a hive outbreak. The red, itchy spots can appear within minutes of exposure, and usually last from a few minutes to several hours at a time. 

The exact causes behind solar urticaria are uncertain at this time, but its symptoms are treatable. For minor cases, you could get allergy relief by staying out of the sun until the discomfort subsides. Instances with more severe, long-term hives can be remedied by using a combination of holistic cures and prevention measures, such as with a sun umbrella or sunscreen. 

3. Stress Factors 

Emotional stress is another common cause of hive outbreaks. When you undergo prolonged periods of stress, chemical or hormone-based changes can occur in response. Changes like this can lead to expanding and leaking blood vessels, leading to red, swollen patches of skin. These symptoms can worsen if you consume caffeine or alcohol, if you spend extended periods in the heat, or if you have prior skin conditions. 

Stress could even make it more difficult for some skin disorders, like eczema and psoriasis, to heal. By looking into the source of the stress itself, you could potentially stave off future flare-ups, or relieve the severity of symptoms. Otherwise, it’s worth speaking with an expert about ways to reduce discomfort from stress responses. 

Holistic Treatments for  Hives, Eczema, and Other Skin Conditions

Make sure you get to enjoy this summer by working towards a symptom-free allergy season. Turn to the experts at St. Louis Allergy Relief Center in Chesterfield, MO, for a wide range of holistic services, as well as comprehensive allergy testing. If you’re seeking natural relief from your hives, visit their website or call (314) 384-9304 to make an appointment.