SKIN CARE: HIVES

May 8th, 2009

Hives, known medically as urticaria, are a very common problem They are sometimes known as ‘heat lumps’, appearing as raised’ red lumps which tend to come and go over any part of the body and which are extremely itchy. They are the result of increased capillary permeability, or ‘leaky bloodvessels’. The condition has been closely studied by allergists, dermatologists, pharmacologists, and immunologists. As a result the mechanism of action is reasonably well understood. It is thought that various processes, both allergic and non-allergic, lead to the release of certain chemicals, the most important of which is histamine. These chemicals influence the small blood vessels and capillaries of the skin, leading to skin changes which are characteristic of hives.

There are various known causes of hives (and probably as many unknown).

Foods and additives. Certain foods, including eggs, shellfish, and nuts, may be implicated. More important however, are the various food additives, in particular benzoic acid and its derivatives, which are used as preservatives, also the yellow azo dye, tartrazine. A carefully documented dietary chart may help discover whether a particular foodstuff is causing hives. Alternatively, a strict diet may be followed, reintroducing one item at a time. If food preservatives or colouring matter are suspected, then an appropriate diet excluding these may help sort this out.

Drugs. There are various medications which frequently cause niyes. These include aspirin and the various salicylates, such as Alka Seltzer. Codeine, Indocid, Brufen, Sulphonamides, and of course penicillin may also cause this condition. A little-known fact is that some cows are treated with penicillin for mastitis. Subsequently, individuals who have a history of penicillin allergy may be absorbing enough penicillin from the milk or other dairy products to cause hives.

Cosmetics, pollens, etc. Make-up, creams, soaps and shampoos may cause hives, though such cases are rare. Even metal bone prostheses, such as artificial hips or leg plates, may be implicated. Toothpaste containing menthol or fluoride has also been known to cause hives. The inhalation of such things as grass pollens or chromate fumes from welding occasionally cause hives.

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