Hives rash is also known as nettle rash or hives urticaria and is a result of an allergic reaction that forms reddish swellings on the skin. These allergy hives may vary in shape and size, causing a lot of discomfort and itchiness but often disappearing within 24 hours. The allergic hives usually take place without any apparent cause and in most cases may be impossible to identify the allergens behind it.


Food allergy hives are commonly detected among those who develop an adverse reaction to specific foods. It is believed that skin rash hives may be triggered off due to any kind of food that causes an allergy such as eggs, seafood, strawberries and other such foods. Other causes of hives rash include:

• Physical contact with fine spores or fungal spores from a flowering plant

• Medications usually, anti-inflammatory drug that does not contain steroids, antibiotic drugs, and antihypertensive drugs.
  
  
  

• Stings or bites from insects

• Contagions, which may be caused due to viruses, pathogens, or harmful bacteria

• Physical contact with certain plants such as Urtica dioica cause stinging nettles

• Physical contact with certain creatures such as stinging jellyfish

• Physical stimulants, such as extreme cold or warmth, sunburst, water, perspiration or pressure

• Chemical irritants present in preparations such as fragrances, additives, food coloring, nickel or tar.

In order to get rid of hives rash, if the patient is able to determine the cause of the rash and follow it up with hives remedies, the rash can be effectively settled down. In most cases, there is no need to call for the doctor unless it is an acute case of hives rash. The ideal remedy for hives is usually antihistamines prescribed by the doctor.

Antihistamines help in relieving the itchiness and reducing the rash to making it completely disappear. These medications are usually administered in the form of tablets or injections. However care must be taken as antihistamines can cause drowsiness during daytime. If the rash does not go away after a few days or is not responding to hives home remedies or antihistamine medication, it is important to see your primary health care provider in order to identify the allergen causing it or detect any underlying immune disorder. Simple hives home remedies include keeping the skin cool and moisturized, and resisting the temptation to rub the itchiness. Applying large amounts of moisturizing creams and emollients can also help in reducing the dryness and itchiness.