Hives, also known as utricaria are signs of an allergic reaction or reaction of our immune system that occurs when something external or something that you swallow internally, triggers the release of chemicals including histamine, from the cells in your body. There are many causes of hives and this condition of the skin is usually characterized by rough and swollen red sections on the surface of your skin.
Typical Causes of Hives
Hives typically occur along with a viral fever. Its always good to visit a doctor if the condition continues for more than a day. There are some common causes of hives discussed below which if you could avoid, would assist you in preventing future breakouts.
Common Causes of Hives
Medicines: Hives can occur due to intake of certain medicines which bring about a breakout. There are many people whose immune system is sensitive to specific medicines such as penicillin and aspirin.
Food allergies: Hives can also occur due to the consumption of nuts, shell fish and egg shell.
Insect bites and plant life: Hives can also be caused if a person comes into contact with pollen grains. Many of them could get hives (normally in the shape of mosquito bites) after visiting a garden or any kind of environment filled with plant life.
Animal dander: This can also be one of many causes of hives. It is always good to know in advance if any of your family members are allergic to animal dander prior to bringing a pet.
Getting stung: There are many instances in which individuals might develop hives because they have got stung by an insect. Protrusions and welts develop on the skin due to the bodys reaction to the chemical substances within the sting itself.
Stress: Hives also occur due to stress, though it is not very common. Stress generally leads to the development of various autoimmune disorders that could cause hives as one of the side effects.
Other hives causes include: bacterial, viral and fungus infections, hepatitis B, parasitic worms, cool temperatures, extreme heat, plants etc.