How is Testing for Hives Done?

Typically a physical examination is all that needs to be done to determine whether or not you are suffering from hives.  A physician will observe your skin and be able to determine that your rash is a hive.  If you have a history of suffering from allergies, then this will further expedite the diagnosis.  It is possible that an allergy which has manifested in another way previously (i.e. sneezing, itchy watery eyes, a runny nose) can then become apparent in the form of a hive

There may be times in which a blood test or a skin test will be done to confirm that an allergic reaction did occur.  This is usually done for those who suffer from hives regularly in an attempt to find out what it is that a person is allergic to.

How do you Treat Hives?

A mild case of hives typically doesn’t require any prescribed treatment, and often do disappear on their own.  Some tips that you should keep in mind if you do have mild hives is to:

•        Avoid taking any hot baths or showers

•        Wear loose clothing as tight clothing will only further exacerbate the problem

•        Take over the counter antihistamines.  Consider diphenhydramine (if it doesn’t make you sleepy) or loratodine or ceterzine

•        A cold compress (i.e. a cool cloth or an ice pack)

•        A soak in a warm water oatmeal bath

For anyone unfortunate to be experiencing a severe case of hives, particularly if you have swelling in your throat, then you may require a shot of epinephrine (also known as adrenaline) or steroids to help control the swelling.