HIVES

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR HIVES

  1. Localized Hives: For localized hives, wash the allergic substance off the skin with soap and water. If itchy, massage the area with a cold washcloth or ice. Localized hives usually disappear in a few hours and don't need Benadryl.
  2. Localized Hives: For localized hives, wash the allergic substance off the skin with soap and water. If itchy, massage the area with a cold washcloth or ice. Localized hives usually disappear in a few hours and don't need Benadryl.
    • Contraindication: Weight < 20 pounds (Reason: Benadryl is a sedative). Give your doctor a call for advice.
    • Continue the Benadryl 4 times per day until the hives are gone for 12 hours.
  3. Cool Bath: Give a cool bath for 10 minutes to relieve itching.  (Caution: avoid any chill)  Rub very itchy areas with an ice cube for 10 minutes.
  4. Remove Allergens: Give a bath or shower if triggered by pollens or animal  contact.  Change clothes.
  5. Avoid Allergens: If you identify a substance that causes hives, help your child avoid that substance in the future.
  6. Contagiousness:  Hives are not contagious. Your child can return to day care or school if the hives do not interfere with normal activities.
  7. Expected Course: Hives normally come and go for 3 or 4 days, then disappear. Most children get hives once.
  8. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Severe hives persist after 2nd dose of Benadryl
    • Most of the itch is not relieved within 24 hours on continuous Benadryl
    • Hives last > 1 week
    • Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

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.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

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