Hives and Rash Treatment

Hives and Contact Rashes

Urticaria, which is commonly referred to as hives, is a kind of skin rash notable for pale red, raised, itchy bumps. Hives result from an inflammation of the skin triggered when the immune system releases histamine. This causes small blood vessels to leak, which leads to swelling in the skin. There are two kinds of urticaria: acute (occurs for 6 weeks and less) and chronic (more than 2 or more months). Acute urticaria may occur after exposure to allergens or triggers, while hives or urticaria can also be triggered by other causes, such as heat, cold or exercise. Chronic urticaria (hives lasting more than six weeks) is rarely caused by specific allergy triggers and so allergy tests are usually not helpful.

Chronic urticaria can last for many months, and or be recurrent for longer periods of time. Although they are often uncomfortable and sometimes painful, hives are not contagious. If you’re experiencing persistent itching or skin irritation, understanding itching and skin allergies can help identify possible causes.

Contact Dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when your skin comes in direct contact with an allergen. For instance, if you have a nickel allergy and your skin comes in contact with jewelry made with even a very small amount of nickel, you may develop red, bumpy, scaly, itchy or swollen skin at the point of contact. It’s also important to distinguish between similar conditions, such as atopic vs contact dermatitis.

Coming in contact with poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac can also cause allergic contact dermatitis. The red, itchy rash is caused by an oily coating covering these plants. The allergic reaction can come from actually touching them, or by touching clothing, pets or even gardening tools that have come in contact with the oil. In some cases, triggers may not always be obvious, as explained in surprising skin allergies.

We offer diagnostic tests to help determine the cause of a skin allergy, also known as allergic contact dermatitis. These diagnostic tests, known as skin patch testing, requires two to three visits during a 48-72 hour period. These patch tests can help determine if you have any skin allergies to dozens of possible chemical, metal, or fragrance allergens. Depending on the outcome of these tests, alternative products and materials can be recommended to avoid unnecessary allergic reactions. Learn more about skin allergy triggers and testing and how they relate to dermatitis. Many of these triggers may also fall under common environmental allergies.

For a deeper understanding of how these reactions occur, you can also explore understanding dermatitis.

Our experienced allergy providers at Schweiger Dermatology Group provide comprehensive allergy care and can create an effective treatment plan personalized just for you. Schedule an appointment today.

About Schweiger

We believe no one should wait to feel comfortable in their own skin. That's why we're committed to delivering The Ultimate Patient Experience—expert care that's fast, compassionate, and seamless. Founded by Dr. Eric Schweiger in 2010 to eliminate long wait times for high quality dermatologists, we've grown into one of the nation's leading dermatology practice, with hundreds of locations across the country and millions of satisfied patients. We offer medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology, as well as allergy services through Schweiger Allergy. Built around the needs of patients, Schweiger is committed to delivering high-quality, personalized care while removing barriers to access. With a focus on convenience, timely appointments, and clinical excellence, the practice makes expert skin and allergy care easier to get—often within days, with same- and next-day appointments available.