Hives can happen to anyone despite their age but kids with allergies have a greater risk. They are usually circular or oval raised red bumps, often with a pale center. They range from small to large and are intensely itchy, and tend to worsen at night. They may appear over an hour or two and then disappear within 24 hours. Hives can appear alone, in clusters, or over a large part of the body. There are many reasons why hives appear. Hives can appear on children due to viral infections, allergic reactions, or insect bites. Children who are the most at risk are those that have a history of anaphylaxis. However, there is always a risk of a breakout anytime new medication is introduced, new food is consumed, or a bug bite occurs.
Doctors can diagnose hives just by looking at the affected area and can try to help figure out what might be causing the hives. If you’re getting hives consistently, or your reaction was serious, the doctor might send you to a specialist. Doctors will often suggest you take a type of medicine called an antihistamine to relieve the itchiness. Overall, hives will typically last anywhere from 4 to 24 hours, and in most cases, hives clear up on their own without any medication or a need to visit the doctor.
However, hives can be a sign of a more serious allergic reaction that can affect breathing and other body functions. For example, if hives are present in addition to other symptoms, such as tongue or mouth swelling, breathing trouble, vomiting or abdominal pain, fainting or other complications, it is important to see a doctor immediately. Some people who know they have serious allergies carry epinephrine which is delivered by a shot. Allergic reactions can happen fast, therefore it is important that a parent carries this emergency shot with them and know how to use it just in case it is ever needed.
The best treatment for your child is to stay away from known triggers. If the hives were caused by a medicine or food, your child should strictly stay away from that medicine and food. If your child get hives when they’re nervous, relaxation breathing exercises may help. If you don’t know what triggers your child’s hives, then it is hard to prevent them. Even though you may not know what triggers hives in your child, it is important to remind them to wash their hands regularly. Practicing cleanliness will help children get into the habit of always washing their hands and area which can hopefully get rid of any bacteria that is lingering.
