Get Relief from Hives with Expert Dermatological Care in Arlington, VA
Hives (urticaria) are a common skin condition that causes red, itchy, and raised welts or bumps to appear on the skin. While hives can occur in anyone, they can be especially uncomfortable, often appearing suddenly and causing distress. If you’re dealing with persistent or recurrent hives, our dermatology team in Arlington, VA, is here to provide effective treatments and solutions to manage your symptoms.
At Dermestetics in Arlington, VA, we specialize in diagnosing and treating hives. Our team uses advanced techniques and personalized care as a way to help relieve your symptoms and resolve the root causes of your condition.
Why Choose Dermestetics for Your Hives?
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Consultation Required?
Yes
Duration of Results
Varies depending on severity and treatment
Sessions Needed
Personalized care plan
Downtime
Minimal to none
What It Treats
What Is Hives (Urticaria)?
Hives, often referred to as urticaria, are a rash that causes raised, red, or skin-colored welts on the skin. They are typically due to an allergic reaction but can also be triggered by a variety of factors, such as stress, infections, or temperature changes. Hives may appear anywhere on the body and may vary in size. It is common for these symptoms to appear suddenly and then disappear quickly or even last for several hours or even days.
Common Causes of Hives:
- Allergic reactions: Food, medications, insect stings, or pollen
- Infections: Viral or bacterial infections
- Physical triggers: Stress, heat, cold, or pressure on the skin
- Chronic conditions: Some individuals may experience chronic hives due to an underlying medical condition
Symptoms of Hives
- Red or pale bumps or hives on the skin
- Intense itching or burning sensation
- Swelling (angioedema) around the eyes, lips, or throat
- Welts that come and go quickly
- Pain or discomfort in severe cases
Treatment Options
Treatment Options
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are the most common treatment for hives. They are known to relieve itching and swelling caused by allergies by blocking histamine, a chemical produced by our immune system during an allergic reaction. Non-prescription antihistamines are available over the counter, but stronger prescription antihistamines may be necessary for more persistent or severe cases.
Corticosteroids
For severe cases of hives, your dermatologist may recommend oral or topical corticosteroids. These medications reduce inflammation and help alleviate symptoms. They are typically used for short periods to prevent side effects.
Immunotherapy
In cases of chronic or persistent hives, immunotherapy treatments, such as monoclonal antibodies (e.g., Omalizumab), can help control symptoms by targeting the immune system’s overreaction to allergens.
Lifestyle Changes
Identifying and avoiding triggers can play an important role in managing hives. If your hives are triggered by stress, certain foods, medications, or temperature changes, your dermatologist will help guide you in making lifestyle adjustments to reduce flare-ups.
Managing Chronic Hives
Chronic hives means these hives last for six weeks or more. When people have chronic hives, the treatment plan may consist of a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments, and a long-term approach. Chronic hives may also be caused by an underlying autoimmune condition, and identifying this cause can help prevent future outbreaks.
When to Seek Medical Help
While most cases of hives can be managed with over-the-counter medications, you should seek medical attention if:
- Your hives last longer than six weeks
- You experience swelling in your throat or difficulty breathing
- You have severe pain or discomfort associated with hives
- Your hives are spreading rapidly or affecting large areas of your body
Why Choose Dermestetics for Hives Treatment?
At Dermestetics, our dermatology team specializes in diagnosing and treating hives. We provide personalized care to address your symptoms, helping you feel comfortable and confident in your skin again. Whether you’re dealing with acute or chronic hives, we recommend effective treatments tailored to your specific needs.
At Dermestetics in Arlington, VA, it is our mission to provide the highest-quality care. We’re here to help you manage your hives with the most effective treatment options.
Ready to Treat Your Hives?
If you’re ready to take control of your hives, schedule an appointment with one of our dermatologists today. Our team is here to provide you with expert care and relief from your symptoms.
Get Started
Take the first step towards relief from hives:
