Recognizing a Medical Emergency with Hives
Hives, also known as urticaria, are red, itchy welts that can appear on any part of your skin. They are often the symptom of an allergic reaction, but they can also be caused by other factors like temperature extremes, stress, or infections. While hives are generally not threatening and often go away on their own within 24 hours, there are certain situations where they can indicate a medical emergency.
When is it a medical emergency?
Hives can be a sign of a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency. If you experience hives along with any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical assistance.
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing: This is the most serious symptom. It indicates that you might be having an anaphylactic reaction.
- Swelling of the lips, tongue or face: This can also signal anaphylaxis.
- Faintness, dizziness, confusion or a rapid heartbeat: These could signify a drop in blood pressure, another potential sign of anaphylaxis.
- Hives suddenly appearing all over the body: When hives are localized to one area, it might not be a cause for alarm. But, when they appear all over your body suddenly, it might indicate a systemic allergic reaction.
Curex – Allergy Immunotherapy Provider
As the leading allergy immunotherapy provider, Curex considers patient education to be a cornerstone of effective allergy management. Research suggests that immunotherapy can be an effective treatment method for certain types of allergies. It aids in gradually reducing your immune system's reaction to specific allergens, which can eventually reduce the severity of your symptoms.
Once the cause of your hives or other allergic reactions has been identified, Curex can formulate a personalized treatment regimen. This may involve tiny doses of the allergen being introduced to your body over time to build up resistance, thus minimizing overreaction in the future.
Remember, even if Curex treatments can potentially minimize allergic reactions, you should still seek immediate emergency medical attention if you experience severe symptoms of anaphylaxis as described above.
Do not ignore the symptoms
Hives may seem harmless initially, but, if they're accompanied by the described severe symptoms, instant medical attention is required. Quick action can successfully manage an allergic reaction and prevent life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind that although Curex offers advanced treatments, anaphylaxis is a serious medical emergency that needs immediate resolution.
