Can antihistamines help with stress hives? Learn about the link between stress and hives, and how antihistamines can help relieve the symptoms.
Stress hives, also known as urticaria, are a common skin condition triggered by various stressors, such as emotional stress, anxiety, and physical stress. These hives can be uncomfortable and cause itching, swelling, and redness. Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergies, but can they also help with stress hives? This article will explore the relationship between antihistamines and stress hives.
Table of Contents
What are antihistamines?
Antihistamines are a type of medication that is commonly used to treat allergies. They work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the body in response to an allergen. Histamine is responsible for causing symptoms such as itching, swelling, and redness. By blocking the action of histamine, antihistamines can help to relieve these symptoms.
Can antihistamines help with stress hives?
An allergen does not cause stress hives, so it may seem counterintuitive to use antihistamines to treat them. However, antihistamines can still be effective in treating stress hives. This is because stress can cause the body to release histamine, leading to hives development. By blocking the action of histamine, antihistamines can help relieve stress hives symptoms.
What types of antihistamines are available?
There are two main types of antihistamines: first-generation and second-generation. First-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), can cause drowsiness and other side effects. Second-generation antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec), are less likely to cause drowsiness and have fewer side effects.
Which antihistamines are best for stress hives?
The choice of antihistamine for treating stress hives will depend on the severity of the symptoms and the individual’s response to the medication. Second-generation antihistamines are generally preferred over first-generation antihistamines due to their lower risk of side effects. Some commonly used second-generation antihistamines for treating stress hives include:
– Loratadine (Claritin)
– Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra)
- Levocetirizine (Xyzal)
It is important to note that antihistamines should be used as directed by a healthcare provider and should not be taken in excess. Overuse of antihistamines can lead to side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and blurred vision.
Are there any other treatments for stress hives?
In addition to antihistamines, other treatments can effectively treat stress hives. These include:
- Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises
- Avoiding triggers such as certain foods or medications
- Topical creams or ointments containing corticosteroids or calamine lotion
- Prescription medications such as cyclosporine or omalizumab for severe cases
- Cool compresses: Applying a cool compress to the affected area can help to relieve itching and inflammation.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment for stress hives.
Conclusion
Stress hives can be frustrating and uncomfortable, but antihistamines can be an effective treatment option. While antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergies, they can also help to relieve the symptoms of stress hives by blocking the action of histamine. Second-generation antihistamines are preferred over first-generation antihistamines due to their lower risk of side effects. However, consulting with a healthcare provider is important to determine the best treatment for stress hives.
Can Antihistamines Help with Stress Hives? – Sources
- “Urticaria (Hives).” American Academy of Dermatology Association, https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/urticaria-hives.
- “Antihistamines.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 28 Jan. 2021, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/in-depth/antihistamines/art-20044970.
- “Stress Hives: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment.” Healthline, 25 Mar. 2021, https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-hives.
- “Antihistamines for Hives.” American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/allergy-library/antihistamines-for-hives.
- “Urticaria (Hives) – Treatment.” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urticaria/treatment/.