Chronic Hives Remedies
Hives refers to a condition that is medically known as urticaria. This condition can occur at any age and is fairly common. It usually develops on the surface of the skin. Hives can be acute or chronic depending on the duration of the condition. Most cases of hives are acute and subside in a few weeks. Chronic hives present a long-term problem and persist for longer than six weeks. Chronic hives also have a tendency to recur. A hive is circular, red lesion. The red area around the hive is known as a flare. Hives can range from very small lesions to large ones that can spread across an entire extremity. Hives develop when the capillaries dilate and fluid is allowed to seep into the tissues of the surrounding areas. The condition is relieved when the body absorbs the fluid again. There are a number of circles that surround a hive. These may change as the fluid drains out of the area and is absorbed.
Acute hives usually occur as an allergic reaction to a certain irritant. They disappear on their own. Treatment involves antihistamine medication. Chronic hives may develop more than once in a week and can persist in this manner for more than six months. In most cases, the trigger for chronic hives is not certain. Chronic hives causes may include sinus infections, urinary tract infections and viral hepatitis. Hives are associated with the chemical histamine which is released into the skin. This chemical is contained in certain types of white blood cells that are present around the capillaries. Stimulation of these cells leads to release of histamine and other chemicals. Histamine leads to the dilation of the blood vessels and allows the fluid to leak out of them.
Cold compresses constitute the best home remedies for hives of chronic type. Taking a cool shower is also known to help. Applying of vitamin E oil on the affected areas twice a day helps to ease the itching and tenderness. You could also add corn starch and baking soda to tepid bath water as it helps to treat hives. Herbal teas such as chamomile, valerian and peppermint teas are believed have a soothing effect on affected areas of skin. Aloe vera gel is also very beneficial in easing itching and discomfort caused by hives. Milk of magnesia is another remedy that is effective in relieving the itching and irritation caused by hives. It is also advisable to increase the intake of foods that are rich in zinc and vitamins C and E.
