HIVES

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR HIVES

Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If

• Difficult to awaken or acting confused
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Very weak (can't stand)
• Swollen tongue with rapid onset
• Hoarseness or cough with rapid onset
• Severe allergic reaction in the past to similar substance and hives present less than 2 hours

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

• You feel weak or very sick
• Hives began after a bee sting, unusual food or medicine and no previous reactions

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9 am and 4 pm) If:

• You think you need to be seen
• Hives interfere with school or normal activities after taking antihistamine (e.g. Claritin, Benadryl) every 6 hours for more than 24 hours
• Fever, abdominal pain or joint swelling is present

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

• You have other questions or concerns
• Hives persist longer than 1 week
• Unexplained hives have occurred 3 or more times in past year

Self Care at Home If

• Hives with no complications and you don't think you need to be seen

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Adult SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

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