Hives, or urticaria, is swollen, red bumps on the skin that can itch, burn, or sting. They can be caused by allergens, physical pressures or exposures, or for unknown reasons. There are different types of hives that vary in severity. If you experience hives, especially chronic hives, you should speak with your allergist in NYC. Types of Hives Hives form in response to histamine being released in the body, causing the leaking of blood plasma from small blood vessels in the skin. They can develop into larger patches known as plaques on the skin, and can form anywhere on the body including on the tongue, throat, or ears. Acute urticaria is hives lasting six weeks or less. They can be caused by certain foods and additives such as peanuts, eggs, shellfish, or tree nuts. Medications such as aspirin or antibiotics can cause hives, or infections such as the common cold, urinary tract infections, strep throat, or hepatitis. Blood transfusions and insect bites or stings may also be a cause. Chronic urticaria is hives lasting for longer than six weeks, and their cause is usually unknown. With chronic hives, 50 percent of the cases are believed to be immune system related, while others may be caused by thyroid disease or other hormonal problems, or even cancer. Physical urticaria is a type of chronic hives, and can be caused by a number of factors. Dermographism is a type of physical hives caused by rubbing or scratching. Constant pressure from belts, sock bands, or other clothing or other sources, can cause hives, as can a change in temperature. Cold urticaria can be severe, and generally form after exposure to cold followed by re-warming, whereas cholinergic urticaria occur from an increase in temperature from sweating, exercise, hot showers, or anxiety. Sun exposure can also be responsible for solar urticaria. Any type of hive outbreak can be worsened by scratching, alcohol, exercise, or stress. Diagnosis and Treatment Your Allergist in NYC will likely begin with an examination of your medical history to help determine the cause of your hives. They may also perform an allergy skin test, blood tests, and urine tests. The best treatment is to identify and remove the trigger of the hives. Often a prescription of antihistamines is given, and epinephrine or cortisone treatments may be prescribed to those who experience severe outbreaks that may cause difficulty in breathing. Hudson Allergy is a top quality New York Allergist that will diagnose and alleviate your allergy problems. We are new kind of allergy practice incorporating different fields to best take care of your family. For more information about Allergist in NYC, contact us today! (http://hudsonallergy.com/)
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