Treatment For Hives And Swelling In Houston, Texas
What to do when antihistamines are not enough?
Hives, also known as urticaria, will affect about 20% of people sometime in their life. They appear as raised itchy bumps. The bumps are caused by small blood vessels leaking when the immune system releases histamine.
There are two kinds of hives. Acute hives occur after contact with a particular trigger. Triggers include food, insect sting, medication, latex, infection, pet dander, pollen or plants (i.e. poison ivy). Acute hives can also be triggered by non-allergic causes such as heat, cold, pressure or exercise.
Chronic hives are rarely caused by specific outside triggers. They can be frustrating because they can last weeks, months or years. Allergy testing is usually not helpful for chronic hives. Patients with chronic hives often use Xolair (omalizumab). Xolair is a fast and effective option for treating chronic hives. Xolair replaces high dose antihistamines (which can cause drowsiness) or stronger medications like cyclosporine or steroids.
Swelling in the deep layers of the skin is called angioedema. It is often seen together with hives. Acute angioedema is commonly caused by an allergic reaction to foods, insect sting or medications. Chronic angioedema, just like chronic hives, typically does not have an identifiable cause.
Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare but serious condition. HAE causes rapid swelling particularly of the face and airway. It does not cause itching or hives. HAE is caused by a deficient or improperly functioning protein. This protein is called the C1 inhibitor. HAE usually runs in families. Evaluation by an allergist is critical if you suspect you have HAE. Preventative and acute treatments are available.
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