Hives

Urticaria, or hives is a skin condition characterized by rings and patches all over the swelling skin. These swellings may appear and disappear in different sizes depending on the severity of the condition. Chemical called histamine is released when the body is in contact with an allergen and therefore is the cause of the red blotches on the skin. It can develop on an individual without causing an allergic reaction.

Symptoms
Small red rings or patches covered the swelling skin. An itchy welt that disappears and reappears within minutes or hours appears all over the body. There are also pink lesions that appear along with it.

There is also difficulty in breathing and swallowing, anxiousness, dizziness, occasional fainting spells, rapid pulse and irregular heartbeat.

Causes
Allergic reaction to prescribed medications, as well as eggs, nuts, berries, insect bites and animal fur or coat can promote the development of hives in the body. Wearing tight clothes and allergic reaction to jewelry metals are also some of the conditions that provokes hives .

Urticaria being passed through heredity is a very rare case and most of the time left unrecorded.

Exposure in an extremely hot or cold temperature may prompt this condition.

Constant contact with water or excessive perspiration may start to develop hives.

Home Remedies
Cool compression: Apply cool compression on the affected area to get rid of the itchiness and pain.

Calamine lotion: Apply calamine lotion all over the body to get rid of itchiness.

Milk of magnesia: Dab some milk of magnesia on the lesions. It has an alkaline solution that removes the itchiness.

Herbal tea: Drink peppermint or passionflower tea to calm the nerves and prevent stress. Chamomile, valerian and catnip teas are good substitutes to peppermint and passionflower.

Cornstarch: Fill the tub with warm water then add ½ cup cornstarch and ½ cup baking soda. Soak in it once a day to stop the itching caused by hives.

Aloe Vera: Apply aloe Vera gel or vitamin E oil twice a day on the affected area.

Nettle: Make nettle tea by mixing 2 teaspoon of nettle powder in a cup of warm water. For added flavoring, add honey or lemon juice.

Cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper in capsule form will provide immediate relief.

Vitamins: Taking vitamins C, E and zinc orally will also provide quick healing procedure.

Diets
Avoid foods that can cause you allergy for it may trigger the onset of hives.

Limit intake or as much as possible, stay away from consuming berries, cheese, chocolates, eggs, nuts, peanuts, shellfish, soy products and tomatoes.

Other suggestions
Target the trapezius points between the neck and the shoulder using acupressure. It will provide some relief and get rid of the red marks and white patches in your body.