Hives

Hives or rashes may be caused by food allergies, poison ivy, insect bites, medication side effects, and many other substances and disorders. The only way to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment is by consulting Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics. At the team’s offices in Covington and Hammond, Louisiana, the experienced dermatologists find the source of your skin problem and provide effective solutions. Call Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics today if you develop hives or a rash, or use the online form to book an appointment.

What are hives and rashes?

Skin rashes are areas of reddened, irritated skin. Other symptoms include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Itchiness
• Blisters (fluid bubbles under the skin)
• Weeping or oozing
• Crusting
• Flaking

Hives (urticaria) are pink swellings (welts) that itch, burn, and sting. They vary from small dots to bumps several inches across. Hives typically spread, creating a skin rash, and sometimes join up to form larger swellings. Hives may disappear after a few hours but often last for days or reappear frequently.

What causes hives and rashes?

Contact dermatitis (an allergic reaction to substances you touch) is the most common cause of rashes. Common skin allergens include:

• Rubber and latex
• Certain metals
• Hair dyes
• Clothing dye chemicals
• Skin care products
• Insect venom
• Topical antibiotics
• Poison ivy and other plants

An allergic reaction to medication or food often causes hives. However, you can also develop non-allergic hives in response to infections, temperature changes, water, pressure, sunlight, exercise, and other triggers. You can’t catch hives from someone, but you could pick up an infection like a cold or strep throat that causes hives in some people.

Infectious diseases like measles and chickenpox can cause rashes but are far less common nowadays because of immunization programs. Rashes can sometimes be symptoms of other conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, meningitis, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

How are skin rashes diagnosed?

The Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics team first performs a thorough physical exam and medical history review. They can identify specific substances causing hives and rashes with allergy testing, where they expose your skin to small quantities of possible allergens and see if there’s a reaction.

Rashes rarely indicate a serious condition, but it’s always worth having an expert diagnosis. Also, while hives and rashes do pass, they can be extremely uncomfortable and distressing while they last. Proper treatment reduces your symptoms and helps you recover more quickly.

How are skin rashes treated?

Skin rash treatments might include:

• Gentle cleaning
• Anti-itch cream
• Antibiotic ointment
• Soothing lotions
• Moisturizers
• Cortisone cream
• Antihistamines

Cortisone is an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid medication that helps to reduce swelling and heat in your skin. Antihistamines reduce your skin’s overreaction, easing itchiness.

Call Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics today for expert hive and rash care, or book an appointment by completing the online form.