Hives are a skin condition where small bumps appear on the skin. Similar to rashes, hives can appear red and are often itchy and uncomfortable. Hives have many potential causes, but one very common cause of hives is an allergic reaction. If you are allergic to seasonal allergens like pollen or ragweed, you might experience hives when these allergens come in contact with your skin. In this article, we will cover how hives are caused, how to prevent them, and treatment options.
AFC Urgent Care Bedford offers same-day care for allergy symptoms. We never require that you schedule an appointment in advance, simply walk into the clinic. We are open 7 days a week with extended business hours. Walk in today, or schedule your visit online.
What Causes Hives?
Hives are most commonly caused by an allergic reaction. During the spring and summer months, allergens tend to be at an all-time high which can lead to various symptoms. Factors such as the severity of your allergies and what exactly you’re allergic to can impact whether you will experience hives from seasonal allergies. How you come into contact with things that you’re allergic to will also impact the type of symptoms you will have. For example, when allergens are inhaled they can cause symptoms that are related to the respiratory system. This includes sneezing, coughing, and mucus buildup. But when allergens come in direct contact with your skin they can cause rashes and hives. Hives are usually defined by the appearance of small welts that have well-defined edges and that are itchy, red, or irritated.
How Do You Get Rid Of Hives Caused by Allergies?
First and foremost, you can sometimes decrease the risk of allergy symptoms by avoiding the allergens in the first place. If you are aware that you have specific seasonal allergies, you might want to decrease potential exposure to those allergens. Additionally, medications including over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines can help alleviate allergic reactions.
If you have hives that were caused by allergies, you should avoid itching them as that can cause damage to your skin can further irritation. Instead, you should consider using topical ointments that can help decrease the redness, swelling, and itching. It is also recommended to consider seeing either a dermatologist, an allergist, or another medical professional to discuss your allergies.
Do Hives Require Medical Treatment?
If your allergy symptoms get worse, don’t go away, don’t respond to over-the-counter medications, or are disrupting your daily routine, you should consider seeking advice from a medical professional. If you allergies are presenting any serious symptoms for example asthma attacks, you should not delay in seeking medical help. But for symptoms that are simply disruptive and not dangerous, you should still consider seeing a doctor if they are persistent or getting in the way.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Bedford for Same-Day Allergy Symptom Relief
Seasonal allergies are a common condition that causes hives. However, other allergies and irritants can also lead to developing hives. If you’re someone who is regularly experiencing hives or can’t seem to get your hives to go away, you should seek medical care. Excessive scratching of hives can lead to an infection.
At AFC Urgent Care Bedford we offer same-day care for allergy symptoms. Our board-certified medical providers will evaluate your symptoms to determine the underlying cause. They will then review the treatment options available to resolve your symptoms. Our clinic is open 7 days a week and accepts patients from Bedford, MA, and the surrounding communities on a walk-in basis. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer low-cost care for patients paying directly for their healthcare. Walk into the clinic today!
