Urticaria (Hives)Treatment
Conveniently located to serve Alpharetta, John's Creek, Milton, and Roswell
Experiencing itchy, red welts on your skin? You might be dealing with urticaria, commonly known as hives.
At House of Dermatology, we understand how disruptive and uncomfortable hives can be. Dr. Ravi R. Patel and our expert team in Alpharetta, John’s Creek, Milton, and Roswell, are dedicated to providing effective, compassionate care to diagnose and manage your condition, helping you find lasting relief.
What Is Urticaria (Hives)?
Urticaria, or hives, is a common skin condition characterized by the sudden appearance of raised, itchy welts (wheals) on the skin. These welts vary in size, from small spots to large patches, and often appear and disappear rapidly, sometimes within hours.
While hives are typically harmless, they can be intensely itchy, causing significant discomfort and affecting your quality of life. They can occur anywhere on the body and may also be accompanied by angioedema, a deeper swelling of the skin, often around the eyes, lips, or throat.
Symptoms & When to Seek Care
Recognizing the symptoms of hives and knowing when to seek professional medical dermatology care is crucial for effective management.
Common Symptoms of Urticaria:
- Itchy welts (wheals): These can be red or skin-colored, with a pale center.
- Varying sizes: Hives can range from tiny bumps to large, interconnected patches.
- Blanching: When pressed, the center of a hive may turn white.
- Shifting locations: Hives often appear in one area, fade, and then reappear in another within hours.
- Angioedema: Swelling beneath the skin, often around the eyes, lips, tongue, hands, or feet. This can be more serious if it affects the throat or airways.
When to Seek Care from a Dermatologist:
While acute hives often resolve on their own, it’s best to consult a dermatologist if:
- Your hives are persistent, lasting more than a few days or recurring frequently.
- The itching is severe and interferes with your daily activities or sleep.
- You experience swelling (angioedema), especially around the face or throat, which could indicate a more severe reaction.
- Other symptoms like fever, joint pain, or difficulty breathing accompany your hives.
- You have chronic hives concerns if your hives have been present for six weeks or longer.
Our team at House of Dermatology is here to help you understand your symptoms and develop a targeted treatment plan.
Our Approach to Hives & Urticaria
At House of Dermatology, Dr. Ravi R. Patel, a double board-certified dermatologist, leads our comprehensive, patient-centered approach to managing urticaria. We provide expert diagnosis and personalized treatment for hives that residents in Alpharetta can trust.
Our process begins with a thorough consultation and physical examination to understand your medical history, symptoms, and the extent of your hives. We then pursue an accurate diagnosis, differentiating acute from chronic urticaria and exploring potential underlying causes through allergy testing or blood work.
Based on this, we develop a personalized treatment plan, a tailored strategy to control symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Hives Treatment Options
Effective management of hives often involves a combination of identifying and avoiding triggers, alongside medical treatments to alleviate symptoms. At House of Dermatology, we offer a range of advanced options for urticaria specialist John’s Creek patients.
Antihistamines are typically the first line of defense. Newer, non-drowsy antihistamines can effectively block histamine, reducing itching and swelling. For persistent cases, higher doses or combinations may be prescribed.
Oral Corticosteroids may be used for severe, acute flare-ups. A short course of oral corticosteroids can quickly reduce inflammation and itching. These are generally used sparingly due to potential side effects with long-term use.
Biologic Medications such as Xolair (Omalizumab) are available for individuals with chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives without an identifiable cause) who don’t respond to antihistamines. Biologic injections can be highly effective. These medications target specific pathways in the immune system to reduce hive formation.
Immunosuppressants may be considered in some complex cases. Other medications that modulate the immune system can be effective treatment options.
Trigger Identification & Avoidance is something we help you with. We assist in identifying and avoiding potential triggers such as certain foods, medications, physical stimuli (cold, heat, pressure), or stress, which can play a significant role in managing your condition.
Why Choose House of Dermatology
Dr. Ravi R. Patel is double board-certified in Dermatology and Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery, bringing extensive expertise to complex skin conditions like urticaria. We provide comprehensive care from basic evaluations to advanced biologic treatments, ensuring you receive the most current and effective options available.
Our personalized approach means we take time to understand your unique situation and develop a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs. Conveniently located to serve Alpharetta, John’s Creek, Milton, and Roswell, we prioritize your comfort and well-being in a welcoming environment where you feel heard and confident in your care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are hives contagious?
No, hives are not contagious. You cannot catch hives from another person.
What's the difference between acute and chronic hives?
The primary difference is duration. Acute hives last less than six weeks and are often linked to a specific trigger. Chronic hives persist for six weeks or longer; a cause is usually not identified (chronic idiopathic urticaria).
What are the signs that my hives might be a medical emergency?
Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing or swallowing, rapid swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, dizziness or fainting, rapid pulse, or nausea and vomiting along with your hives. These symptoms may indicate anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate treatment.
Will my hives leave scars or permanent marks?
No, hives themselves do not cause scarring. However, excessive scratching can lead to secondary skin damage or infection, resulting in temporary discoloration or, in severe cases, scarring.
How long do hives typically last?
Acute hives usually last less than six weeks and often resolve within hours or days. Chronic hives, on the other hand, persist for six weeks or longer and have daily or nearly daily outbreaks.
Get Expert Urticaria Care
Experience the difference expert care makes when you have a dedicated team focused on your relief and recovery. Contact House of Dermatology to schedule your consultation today. We offer hive treatment in Alpharetta, John’s Creek, Milton, and Roswell that go beyond temporary relief to deliver lasting results.