Hives, known medically as urticaria, are red, swollen welts on the skin that may occur when the body comes in contact with an allergen. During an allergic reaction, mast cells in the body release histamine, which causes swelling, says the Mayo Clinic. If you are plagued with hives and you're not sure what the allergen trigger is, consult a doctor for an allergy test. If you have been exposed to an allergen and hives are your only symptom, you can help reduce the itching and discomfort with home remedies.
Step 1
Wear loose, 100-percent cotton clothing to help prevent hives from itching and becoming larger, recommends the Mayo Clinic. Do not wear wool or synthetic materials, like polyester.
Step 2
Dab itchy hives with calamine lotion to help soothe the itch, suggests "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies." Calamine lotion is a pink, chalky substance available at drugstores and grocery stores that can help cool the area and prevent itching.
Step 3
Take a cool bath in oatmeal. Colloidal oatmeal, or dried oats ground into a powder, will prevent the bathtub from becoming clogged. If you don't have colloidal oatmeal, grind regular store-bought oatmeal in a blender or coffee grinder. Oatmeal will soothe the skin, reducing swelling and itchiness.
Step 4
Place a cool, wet compress over particularly itchy areas. Wet a clean towel or washcloth in cold water, then apply directly to the hives on the skin. Wring out the towel and rinse in more cool water as needed, then reapply.
Step 5
Apply a small amount of milk of magnesia to help make the area more alkaline, recommends skin allergy specialist, Leonard Grayson, M.D. Apply to the afflicted area as needed with a cotton ball to stop itching.
Tips and Warnings
- Prevent hives by staying away from allergens and taking an antihistamine when you must come in contact with it.
- Consult a doctor if your hives are severely itchy or swollen, or if you have any other symptoms, like a fever.
Things You'll Need
- 100-percent cotton clothing
- Calamine lotion
- Oatmeal
- Blender or coffee grinder
- Towel or washcloth
- Milk of magnesia
- Cotton ball
