Tired of living with chronic hives? The team at Atlantic Center for Dermatologic Diseases – your dermatologist of Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, and Cumming, GA – is here to help find the most effective treatment for your needs. 

Help for Recurring Hives

 Many people have suffered from hives at some point in their lives, but they are often gone or fading within a day. Unfortunately, some people deal with them on a more chronic basis. Below, the team at Atlantic Center for Dermatologic Diseases of Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, and Cumming, GA, share ways to deal with chronic hives and how a dermatologist can help. 

Understanding Hives 

 Hives are a term used for raised, itchy, red bumps on the skin. They are typically considered chronic if they occur more than once a week for at least six weeks. They are usually the result of one of the following: 

• An autoimmune issue or infection 
• An allergic reaction to things such as specific foods, medications, or chemicals 
• Exposure to a specific trigger, such as cold temperatures or even sunlight or another unidentified trigger

 It’s extremely helpful to keep track of any flare-ups you have, what you have done that day, what you have eaten, and any other factors to help determine your triggers. 

Treating Chronic Hives 

 Treating hives usually revolves around two steps: providing relief from the itch and preventing new hives from forming. In some cases, the itch can be relieved at home by using OTC anti-itch cream and antihistamines. Additionally, wearing loose clothing, applying a cold compress, and keeping your body temperature cool can be beneficial. 

Unfortunately, at-home remedies aren’t always effective. It’s important to seek care when you can’t find relief at home and if your hives return for several weeks. 

Dermatologists can help control and prevent hives in several ways. One critical one is in helping determine your triggers. Once identified, you can work together to develop a plan to avoid them as much as possible. If your hives are due to medication, that medication can be changed or adjusted. And if a health issue is the underlying cause, the proper treatment is recommended. 

In addition to uncovering the underlying cause of your hives, dermatologists can provide relief from your discomfort. Your treatment plan will be customized to your specific needs and may include a combination of at-home remedies and prescription medications such as prescription antihistamines, certain injected medicines and corticosteroids. 

You don’t have to keep suffering from chronic hives. Let our team at Atlantic Center for Dermatologic Diseases – your dermatologist of Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, and Cumming, GA – help you find relief by calling (404) 252-4333 to schedule an appointment today.