[Column] What to do if your child or family member is suffering from hives... What exactly are hives (urticaria)? Why does it get itchy? 13 factors that stimulate mast cells, which cause itching Must-see! How to determine if it's serious or not. Many people find that when they are tired or stressed, their skin tends to swell up and they are prone to developing itchy hives.But did you know that in some cases, it can be a severe allergic reaction?In particular, when young children develop hives and cannot communicate their symptoms themselves, it is crucial for adults to carefully observe them. What exactly are hives (urticaria)? Urticaria is a condition characterized by redness, swelling, and swollen skin lesions, and in most cases, it is a transient condition accompanied by itching that resolves on its own.The rash is defined as disappearing within 24 hours and not being accompanied by hyperpigmentation or peeling of the stratum corneum (desquamation). Why does it get itchy? The main mechanism is thought to be that histamine stored in mast cells, which are widely distributed in the skin, around blood vessels, and around mucous membranes, ruptures in response to some stimulus, releasing histamine that causes capillaries to dilate, or some components of the blood to leak out of the blood vessels, resulting in skin rashes, localized swelling, and itching due to nerve stimulation. 13 factors that stimulate mast cells, which cause itching infection Bacteria, viruses, parasites, Helicobacter pylori, etc. fatigue stress autoimmune Atopic dermatitis Food additives such as preservatives and artificial colorings in food Histamine, which is said to be abundant in mackerel and tuna. Foods that cause allergies Some drugs Among analgesics, antipyretics, and blood pressure medications, angiotensin receptor blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, as well as contrast agents, are relatively common. Collagen disease Physical stimuli such as cold and heat sunlight Other diseases Because the causes are so broad, it's not easy to pinpoint the exact reason.Therefore, it is often said that the cause is unknown. Must-see! How to determine if it's serious or not. Hives can sometimes occur as part of a systemic allergic disorder, and may occasionally be accompanied by more severe symptoms.If the following symptoms appear along with hives, treatment at a medical institution capable of providing comprehensive care may be necessary. Symptoms that occur in severe cases Difficulty breathing or breathing sounds similar to asthma Difficulty swallowing and hoarseness due to throat swelling. If you have swelling in your face, lips, eyelids, etc. If you develop hives, it's important to carefully observe whether your throat is itchy and whether you're having trouble breathing.This means that when a family member, especially a child, develops the condition, parents need to carefully monitor the above points.In hospitals, treatment primarily involves antihistamines, and in severe cases, stronger medications and respiratory support are used.On the other hand, if the cause of the allergy is clear, it is essential to avoid those things. Source: Doctors Me Over-the-counter medications to reduce swelling Mentholatum® Ginmart® Category 2 OTC drug Three anti-itch ingredients provide quick relief from spreading itchiness! Contains anti-inflammatory ingredients that even treat the swelling characteristic of hives! Furthermore, it is steroid-free and can be used by children as young as one year old. For detailed product information, click here. We take care to post accurate information,Please point out any incorrect information. Please submit any comments regarding medical information here. Return to the list of guides categorized by health symptoms.