Managing Hives: Foods to Avoid and Key Tips for Relief

Q: Managing Hives: Foods to Avoid and Key Tips for Relief

Hello： Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is an allergic skin condition that is a personal physiological response. <br>According to Dr. <br>Chiu Chia-Yu from the Dermatology Department of National Taiwan University, the causes of urticaria are typically associated with type I hy

Please help me?

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, can be triggered by various factors, including certain foods.
It is advisable to avoid the following types of foods if you are experiencing frequent hives:
1.
Shellfish: Such as shrimp, crab, and lobster.
2.
Nuts: Particularly peanuts and tree nuts.
3.
Eggs: Especially egg whites.
4.
Dairy Products: Milk and cheese can be problematic for some individuals.
5.
Wheat: Gluten-containing products may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.
6.
Soy: Commonly found in many processed foods.
7.
Certain Fruits: Such as strawberries, bananas, and citrus fruits.
In addition to dietary considerations, here are some important points to keep in mind:
- Identify Triggers: Keep a diary of your food intake and any hives outbreaks to help identify potential triggers.
- Avoid Scratching: Scratching can worsen the condition and lead to secondary infections.
- Stay Cool: Heat can exacerbate hives, so try to stay in a cool environment.
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical advice.
An allergist may perform tests to identify specific allergens.
Regarding the sudden appearance of small bumps without visible wounds, it is possible that these are related to your hives.
Persistent or recurrent hives can sometimes indicate an underlying condition.
Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to determine the best course of action and to discuss potential treatments.

Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/03/31

Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology

Hello: Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is an allergic skin condition that is a personal physiological response.
According to Dr.
Chiu Chia-Yu from the Dermatology Department of National Taiwan University, the causes of urticaria are typically associated with type I hypersensitivity reactions in the skin.
This is often triggered by the presence of immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the body that recognizes foreign allergens.
Many individuals are allergic to seafood (such as shrimp, crab, and oysters), which is due to specific proteins in these foods that induce the production of specific IgE antibodies.
When these IgE antibodies bind to allergens, they activate mast cells in the skin or blood, leading to the release of histamine from these cells.
Histamine causes vasodilation in the skin, tissue swelling, and stimulates nerves, resulting in intense itching, thus forming the characteristic skin rash.
◆ Is it related to common allergens? There are numerous substances that can trigger acute urticaria.
In addition to well-known allergens like seafood, other reported triggers include dust mites, latex, mango, kiwi, sunlight, resins, fragrances, organic solvents, and both oral and topical medications.
Therefore, it is not just food that can cause urticaria; it can arise from various aspects of daily life.
Many people mistakenly believe that urticaria is solely caused by eating seafood or other "unclean" foods.
In contrast, chronic urticaria is usually not caused by food allergies.
If food allergies were the cause, most patients would quickly identify the offending food within a few days and could avoid it, often resolving the issue without medication.
Chronic urticaria, however, can persist for several months, and some individuals may experience it for years without resolution.
In fact, the release of histamine in the skin does not necessarily occur through allergic reactions; it can also be triggered by physical urticaria, which includes responses to cold, heat, pressure, or friction on the skin, all of which can directly cause the release of antihistamines, resulting in rashes similar to urticaria.
Autoimmune urticaria occurs due to autoimmune diseases, leading to allergic reactions against the body's own proteins.
As for dermographism, this unique condition arises when patients scratch their skin, prompting histamine release and resulting in urticaria.
Most cases of chronic urticaria are not caused by allergies to external allergens, and since the underlying causes are often not well-known external allergens, dietary control may not lead to significant improvement.
Generally, oral antihistamines can effectively manage the symptoms of urticaria, and there is no need for excessive concern.

Reply Date: 2009/03/31

More Info

Hives, also known as urticaria, is a skin condition characterized by raised, itchy welts or bumps on the skin. These welts can vary in size and can appear anywhere on the body. Managing hives often involves identifying and avoiding triggers, which can include certain foods, environmental factors, and stress.

Foods to Avoid
1. Common Allergens: Certain foods are known to trigger allergic reactions that can lead to hives. These include:
- Shellfish: Shrimp, crab, and lobster are common culprits.

- Nuts: Peanuts and tree nuts (like almonds, walnuts, and cashews) can provoke hives in sensitive individuals.

- Eggs: Both egg whites and yolks can cause reactions.

- Milk: Dairy products are another frequent allergen.

- Wheat: Gluten-containing foods can also trigger hives in some people.

- Soy: Found in many processed foods, soy can be a hidden allergen.

2. Histamine-Rich Foods: Some foods contain high levels of histamine or can trigger histamine release in the body, which may exacerbate hives. These include:
- Aged cheeses: Cheddar, blue cheese, and other aged varieties.

- Fermented foods: Sauerkraut, kimchi, and yogurt.

- Alcohol: Especially red wine and beer.

- Processed meats: Such as salami and pepperoni.

3. Food Additives: Certain preservatives and colorings can also trigger hives. Common additives to watch for include:
- Sulfites: Often found in dried fruits and wine.

- Artificial colors: Such as Red 40 and Yellow 5.

Key Tips for Relief
1. Identify Triggers: Keeping a food diary can help you track what you eat and when hives occur. This can assist in identifying specific food triggers.

2. Consult an Allergist: If hives persist, it may be beneficial to see an allergist for testing. They can perform skin tests or blood tests to identify specific allergies.

3. Over-the-Counter Antihistamines: Medications like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) can help relieve itching and reduce the appearance of hives. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

4. Cool Compresses: Applying a cool, damp cloth to the affected areas can provide immediate relief from itching and swelling.

5. Avoid Scratching: While it can be tempting to scratch the itchy welts, doing so can worsen the condition and lead to skin infections.

6. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help your body manage histamine levels and reduce the severity of hives.

Other Considerations
You mentioned experiencing hives frequently and that they sometimes appear as small bumps after scratching. This could indicate a condition known as physical urticaria, where hives are triggered by physical stimuli such as scratching, pressure, or temperature changes.
If you have areas without visible wounds that suddenly develop hives, it may be beneficial to consult a dermatologist. They can assess your skin and provide tailored advice or treatment options.
In summary, managing hives involves identifying and avoiding potential food triggers, utilizing antihistamines for relief, and consulting healthcare professionals for persistent or severe cases. By taking these steps, you can effectively manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

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