Urticaria (Hives)Treatment
Conveniently located to serve Alpharetta, John's Creek, Milton, and Roswell
Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin condition characterized by raised, itchy welts. At House of Dermatology, we provide professional diagnosis and treatment for hives in Alpharetta for patients with acute or chronic outbreaks.
Serving the nearby communities of Johns Creek, Milton, and Roswell, our clinic focuses on identifying the root causes to create personalized management plans tailored to each individual.
What Are Hives (Urticaria)?
Hives are raised, often itchy welts on the surface of the skin. They are typically red, pink, or flesh-colored and may appear as individual spots or interconnected patches. These welts occur when certain cells release histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream, causing small blood vessels to leak fluid. While often temporary, hives can be a sign of an allergic reaction or an underlying health issue.
Common Triggers and Types of Hives
Identifying the cause of hives is a key step in managing the condition. While some cases are idiopathic, meaning they have no identifiable cause, many are linked to specific triggers.
Common triggers include:
- Allergies to foods, insect stings, or medications
- Infections, both bacterial and viral
- Sunlight or temperature exposure
- Stress or exercise
- Contact with certain plants or chemicals
Hives are generally categorized into two main types based on their duration. Acute hives last for six weeks or less and are often tied to a specific allergic reaction. Chronic spontaneous urticaria persists for more than six weeks and can recur over months or even years, frequently without an external trigger.
When to Seek Professional Care
While a mild case of hives may resolve on its own, it is important to consult a specialist if your symptoms become severe or persistent. You should schedule an evaluation if you experience hives that last longer than a few days, cover a large area of your body, or interfere with your daily life. If hives are accompanied by swelling of the lips or tongue, known as angioedema, or cause difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
A thorough evaluation is the first step toward effective treatment for urticaria in Alpharetta. During your appointment, Dr. Patel will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and conduct a physical examination of the affected skin. He may also ask you to keep a symptom diary to help identify patterns.
Depending on your case, diagnostic tools like patch testing or allergy testing may be used to pinpoint specific triggers and rule out other skin conditions.
Treatment Options for Hives
Your plan may include:
- Antihistamines for hives to block the chemical reactions causing symptoms
- Prescription oral corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in severe cases
- Injectable medications for chronic urticaria that does not respond to other treatments
- Guidance on trigger avoidance and lifestyle adjustments
Why Choose House of Dermatology
Your care will be led by Dr. Ravi R. Patel, a double board-certified dermatologist with specialized expertise in both Dermatology and Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery. His advanced training enables an in-depth understanding of complex skin conditions, such as urticaria. Dr. Patel is committed to a patient-first approach, ensuring that your concerns are heard and your treatment plan is designed for optimal results and long-term relief.
At House of Dermatology, we are committed to delivering precise diagnoses and innovative solutions for our patients. Our clinic offers a welcoming and professional environment where you can feel confident in the quality of your care. We focus on creating a clear and supportive patient experience, from your initial consultation to your follow-up appointments, ensuring you have the resources needed to effectively manage your skin health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to get rid of hives?
The quickest way to relieve mild to moderate hives is to take an over-the-counter antihistamine and apply a cool compress to the affected skin. For severe or persistent cases, a board-certified dermatologist can prescribe more potent medications for more immediate and effective relief.
Are hives contagious?
No, hives are not contagious. They are an inflammatory reaction within your own skin and cannot be spread from person to person through contact.
How long does a typical hives outbreak last?
An episode of acute hives typically lasts for less than 24 hours in one spot, though new hives may appear as old ones fade. A full outbreak of acute urticaria usually resolves within six weeks.
Can I develop hives for the first time as an adult?
Yes, it is possible to experience your first outbreak of hives as an adult. The onset of urticaria can occur at any age and may be triggered by new allergies, illnesses, or other factors to which you were not previously exposed.
What is the difference between a rash and hives?
While both involve skin irritation, hives are a specific type of rash characterized by raised welts, or wheals, that can appear and disappear quickly. Other rashes may present as flat spots, bumps, or scaly patches and tend to last longer.
Find Relief From Hives in Alpharetta, GA
You do not have to live with the discomfort and uncertainty of chronic hives. If you are ready to understand the cause of your symptoms and find a lasting solution, our team is here to help. Contact House of Dermatology today to schedule a hives evaluation and take the first step toward calm, clear skin.