About Allergies: What's Causing Your Hives?

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Allergies Allergies Symptoms / Diagnosis Treatment Coping From Daniel More, MD, your Guide to Allergies Hives, also known by the medical term urticaria, is a common medical problem. Acute hives, lasting less than 6 weeks, is very common, affecting up to 20% of the population. Chronic hives, lasting more than 6 weeks, isn't exactly a rare disease, affecting up to 3% of the population. There are a number of causes of hives, and the causes differ whether the hives are acute or chronic. Infections of just about any kind are a common cause of acute hives, as are NSAIDs and stress. Different allergies can cause hives (acute or chronic), including food, pets or medicine. Other medical problems, including thyroid abnormalities and autoimmune disease can cause chronic hives. For many people, the cause of their chronic hives is not known, and therefore termed chronic idiopathic urticaria. Common Causes of Hives Almost every patient with hives that I see in my clinic is concerned that an allergy is triggering their symptoms. Most think that a certain food is the cause of their hives; others think that a change in a soap or detergent is the culprit. Before they see me, these people have tried to avoid these suspected triggers, yet the hives usually persist. What are the common causes of hives? You might be surprised to hear that while allergies may be the problem, other causes are more common. And in a majority of cases, what triggers hives that last for less than 6 weeks (acute) is different than what causes hives that last longer (chronic). See More About:  urticaria and angioedema  antihistamines  allergy testing Know the Cause of Your Hives? I see alot of people in my clinic with hives. Nearly every one of them has some suspicion of what their cause. From foods to medicines, and toiletries to travel, most people with hives have some idea what is triggering their symptoms. Share your story about what you think caused your hives, and read about others' experiences. Share Your Experiences! See More About:  hives  causes of hives  pictures of hives Everything You Need To Know If You Have Hives Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a disorder affecting up to 20% of the population at some point in their lives. The swelling that sometimes accompanies hives, called "angioedema," can lead to swelling of the face, hands and feet. Hives usually feel very itchy and burning (although angioedema is often painful) or cause a tingling sensation -- and these symptoms often make people miserable. While people who suffer from hives are not alone, this isn't much of a comfort to them when their lives are consumed with not knowing why they have their symptoms. Hives can literally turn a person's life upside down. Allergies Ads Allergy Symptoms Anaphylaxis Skin Allergies Hives Relief Allergies and Hives Featured Articles Skin Allergies Asthma and Lung Allergies Common Allergy Issues in Children Food Allergies Allergies in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Drug and Latex Allergies   More from About.com 2011's Cutest Winter Boots Snuggly snow boots are essential for women who live in cold climates, but still want to put their best foot forward. More> 10 Budget Work Essentials Figuring out how to pay for a fabulous work wardrobe can be a challenge. These 10 mix-and-max essentials are all under $50. More> This newsletter is written by: Daniel More, MD Allergies Guide Email Me | My Blog | My Forum   Sign up for more free newsletters on your favorite topics You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the About Allergies newsletter. If you wish to change your email address or unsubscribe, please click here. About respects your privacy: Our Privacy Policy Contact Information: 249 West 17th Street New York, NY, 10011 © 2011 About.com   Must Reads What are Allergies? Symptoms of Allergies Diagnosis of Allergies Treatment of Allergies Preventing Allergies Advertisement