If you have any allergies, then you have probably had hives in your lifetime. Hives are one of the basic symptoms of an allergic reaction. These are characterized by welts that appear on the skin which can be itchy and sting. There are many different causes of hives. Though these are often temporary, sometimes they don’t subside for a long time. By speaking with board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Krathen, at Essential Dermatology, he can help to create a personalized treatment plan for you.
What Causes Hives?
Many triggers cause hives. Most often they are caused by an allergic reaction. Common allergies that cause hives are foods, medicines, insect bites, animals, and pollen. But this is not the only way that hives occur, they can also occur from exercise, infections, stress, exposure to the sun, and more. At a consultation with Dr. Krathen, he will talk to you about your medical history, lifestyle, allergies, and examine your skin to find the cause. After gathering all this information, he will work with you to find the right remedy for your symptoms.
Symptoms of Hives
- Welts (can occur alone or in a group)
- Raised, pink or red swellings
- Skin swelling
- Itching
- Stinging
Treatments for Hives
For acute hives (ones that subside within a couple of days) many over-the-counter medications can help. For chronic hives, seeking remedies with a dermatologist will be beneficial to mitigate the symptoms. Treatments that Dr. Krathen may use for your hives are antihistamines, topical corticosteroids, antibiotics, or injectable medications. During a consultation with Dr. Krathen, he will work with you to find a treatment that will help your symptoms.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have hives that are causing you pain and discomfort, then come into Essential Dermatology today to discuss a treatment plan. Hives are a common but annoying skin condition that you shouldn’t have to live with. To get started, call our office at (508) 827-2615 or request a consultation by filling out our online form. To book an appointment, schedule your visit as a new patient using our online scheduler or as an existing patient using the Mass General Brigham Patient Gateway.
Meet Dr. Michael Krathen
Dr. Michael Krathen is a board-certified dermatologist with more than a decade of medical training and experience. A specialist in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, he uses expertise, collaboration, and compassion to help people of all ages discover their healthiest and most radiant skin.
Credentials You Can Trust
