Hives Treatment

How are Hives Diagnosed?

People with symptoms of hives should see a dermatologist or an allergist/immunologist for proper evaluation. Usually, the diagnosis is made by considering the medical history, performing a physical examination, and identifying factors causing hives. For chronic hives, additional testing may be necessary to rule out any associated conditions, based on symptoms, medical history, and clinical findings.

How are Hives Treated Based on Severity?

Treatment of hives is based on symptoms, how often the hives break out, and whether the initial treatment was successful. Check out the following table to know the treatment approach for hives based on severity:

Types of Hives and Their Treatment

Treatment of hives differs based on the kind of urticaria, the length of the condition, the cause behind it, and the periodicity of the hives. Below are different types of hives and how they can be treated.

Topical Treatment for Hives

Topical treatments do not address the underlying cause of hives. The main cause of hives is histamine release in the skin. Some soothing products, however, can offer temporary relief. These include: 

Other Treatments for Hives

Other forms of hive treatments used in India involve the following:

Oral Medications for Hives Treatment

The oral medicines that are usually administered to treat hives include:

• Cetirizine: A second-generation antihistamine that is used to prevent itching and the formation of wheals.

• Levocetirizine: It controls allergic reactions and recurrences of hives.

• Fexofenadine: A non-sedative antihistamine is prescribed to manage chronic hives.

• Loratadine: Helps to reduce itching and skin swelling due to hives.

• Bilastine: It is a relatively new non-sedative antihistamine drug used for chronic hives.

• Montelukast: In selected cases, especially when other allergic conditions are present, montelukast may be an option.

• Prednisolone: It is prescribed for severe cases or angioedema for a short duration.

Ayurvedic and Alternative Treatments for Hives

Complementary approaches, like turmeric, neem preparations, yoga or meditation, may also be used as supportive care for hives. This is because there is little scientific evidence that they effectively treat hives.

• Haridra (turmeric) may be employed for its anti-inflammatory properties.

• Neem preparations may be employed as supportive treatment for skin irritation and itching.

• Ayurvedic practitioners use Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) to support immunity.

• Yoga and meditation may assist in reducing stress, a trigger factor for developing hives in certain individuals.

• Acupuncture has been investigated as an auxiliary treatment for chronic urticaria in some people.

Note: The following treatments should only be used as complementary therapies and should never replace the usual medical treatment for hives.

Home Care for Managing Hives

People suffering from hives can take the following actions at home to ease their itching and avoid attacks:

• Place cool compresses on the affected area to stop itching.

• Wear loose clothes made of cotton material.

• Use fragrance-free soap and skincare products.

• Do not scratch the affected skin.

• Take antihistamines as recommended by the physician.

• Monitor foods, medications, or anything else that triggers an attack.

• Visit your doctor immediately if swelling occurs around the mouth or throat.

Latest Treatment for Hives

Recent advances in the treatment of chronic spontaneous urticaria (chronic hives) include new targeted biologic therapies for patients with symptoms inadequately controlled by antihistamines. 

Omalizumab, an anti-IgE monoclonal antibody, is an advanced treatment option available in India for antihistamine-resistant chronic spontaneous urticaria. It is recommended in updated international guidelines for patients who do not respond adequately to high-dose second-generation antihistamines. 

Newer biologics, like dupilumab, are being investigated in chronic spontaneous urticaria, but more data and regulatory approvals are needed before they are made a standard treatment option.

How Long Does Hives Treatment Take?

The hives treatment duration is determined by the severity of symptoms, type of urticaria, and individual response to treatment. Take a look at the duration for different treatments of hives:

Hives Treatment Side Effects

Treatment for hives is usually safe, but sometimes causes side effects, such as:

• Sleepiness or drowsiness caused by certain antihistamines

• Dry mouth, headache, and nausea

• Injection-site problems associated with omalizumab

• Increased risk of infection when taking cyclosporine

Note: The use of corticosteroids over the long term is usually avoided because of the possibility of important adverse effects.

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Hives

Some lifestyle modifications that can be made to control outbreaks of hives are:

• Identify the trigger, if any, and avoid them when possible.

• Learn stress management using relaxation methods or meditation.

• Avoid overheating during physical activity or in hot weather if it is one of the triggers.

• Inform the physician of any past medication allergies before taking any medication.

• Stick to the regular treatment plan and schedule for chronic urticaria.

• Unless a particular food trigger has been identified, do not limit food unnecessarily.

Triggers That Can Worsen Hives Symptoms

Some common triggers that might worsen hives include:

• Medications like NSAIDs, aspirin, and certain types of antibiotics

• Viral or bacterial infection

• Heat, sweating, or a warm shower

• Cold temperature or cold water

• Skin pressure from wearing tight clothing or straps

• Emotional stress

• Alcohol consumption

• Insect sting or bite

• Specific food products, such as nuts, seafood, eggs, or food additives (only in some people)

Hives Treatment Cost

The cost of treatment for hives in India depends on doctor consultation charges, medical investigations, medicines and advanced therapies like biologics. Mild cases are usually inexpensive and treated with antihistamines, with costs ranging from about ₹500 to ₹3,000 per month. Moderate cases of chronic spontaneous urticaria can cost patients ₹3,000 to ₹10,000 per month. However, severe cases that need biologic medicines can cost approximately ₹10,000 to ₹35,000 per dose. 

Does Health Insurance Cover Hives Treatment in India?

Yes. Health insurance provides coverage for treatment of hives in India, depending on policy terms, the severity of the condition, and the type of treatment required. Some mediclaim policies cover hospitalisation for severe allergic reactions or complications. Routine consultations, medicines, and outpatient treatments may be covered only if the policy comes with OPD cover. Thus, patients should review their policy documents or confirm coverage with their insurer before raising a claim.