Hives are raised, red and itching patches that occur on the skin and on mucous membranes. Generally, hives are more annoying than dangerous, except when they form within the throat and interfere with breathing. If you have difficulty breathing, go directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Hives are extremely common. Twenty percent of the population have hives at least once. Some people suffer from chronic hives of more than three months duration.

Treatment may consist of antihistamines, tranquilizers, and sometimes cortisone pills or injections. These medications are safe and effective, when taken as prescribed.

I prefer to treat my patients who have hives practically, and usually do not do a series of blood, skin or other time-consuming, expensive tests. Most of the time, the causes of hives cannot be determined by the tests.

It is impossible and impractical to avoid all substances that produce hives. However, it is advisable to avoid the most frequent causes.

Penicillin is the most common cause of drug-induced hives. Penicillin is found not only in a needle and syringe, but also in milk and dairy products, especially moldy cheeses such as Roquefort or Bleu Cheese.

Aspirin makes twenty to forty percent of all hive sufferers worse. Symptoms from the injection of just one aspirin may last up to three weeks. Other drugs including Phenobarbital and other barbiturates, sulfa, laxatives, diuretics, hormones, morphine and codeine can all contribute to hive formation.

Certain foods such as shrimp, crab, lobster, clams, oysters, octopus, strawberries, eggs, nuts, chocolates and mushrooms should be avoided as much as possible. Benzoate preservatives and yellow food coloring have been linked with hive formation. Alcoholic beverages also may cause hives.

Emotional factors rarely, if ever, cause hives, thought "nerves" can make hives worse, and last longer.

If you have any questions concerning hives, please feel free to call me any time.