A small, red bump appears on the skin and starts to itch like crazy. You haven't been bitten by an insect, but you're not sure what the cause of the itchy bump is. More than likely, you have a hive.
The causes of hives are varied, ranging from an allergic reaction to food or medication to the result of heat or overexposure to the sun. Most hives clear on their own within 24 hours, but the itching can drive a person mad while waiting for them to clear. Here are 7+ things you can try to treat hives the next time they appear.
1. Antihistamine. If the cause of the hives is something that was eaten or its unknown, the Mayo Clinic recommends taking an oral antihistamine. Loratadine, cetirizine and diphenhydramine are great over-the-counter antihistamines. Applying a topical antihistamine to the hives may also help alleviate the itching.
2. Calamine lotion. Calamine lotion is an old remedy that still has its place today. Medical News Today says to simply apply the lotion to the hives.
3. Witch hazel. Witch hazel is an astringent that appears to help alleviate itching. Apply the witch hazel directly to the hives, according to Healthline.
4. Aloe vera. Another recommendation by Healthline is to put aloe vera gel from the plant onto the hives. If you don't have a plant, you can purchase aloe vera gel in the store, but make sure that it has a high concentration of the actual plant gel in it.
5. Cool compress. If the hives appear while you're out and about, the Mayo Clinic recommends applying a cool compress to them. Finding some paper towel and water is pretty easy no matter where you are.
6. Oatmeal. For a widespread case of hives, Medical News Today says to soak in an oatmeal bath. Add 2 cups of colloidal oatmeal to a tub of lukewarm water and soak for 20 minutes.
7. Baking soda. For those who don't have any oatmeal on hand, Healthline says that a baking soda bath works well, too. Sprinkle 1 to 2 handfuls of baking soda in the lukewarm water and soak for 20 minutes.
8. Loose clothing. Whether the cause of the hives is overheating or something you ate, WebMD reminds you to wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid additional irritation.
9. Triggers. The best treatment for hives is to avoid getting them in the first place. WebMD recommends tracking your triggers so you can avoid them. A trip to an allergist might be needed to help discover the triggers.
Nobody likes to suffer from hives; so when they appear, have these items on hand so you can fight back.