HIVES

(URTICARIA)

Hives are an allergic reaction to substances such as food, medicines, insect bites, plants, etc.

These usually appear as

      · Red, raised lesions with marked swelling that are often itchy
      · Smooth or slightly bumpy to touch
      · Rash on one part of the body
      · Spots or solid red rashes

OTHER SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS
      · Difficult or rapid breathing

      · Rapid swelling

When to Consult Your Child's Doctor

CONSULT IMMEDIATELY IF:
· Difficult or rapid breathing
· Bright red and tender to the touch
· Spreading red streaks
· Looks like a burn

· Swelling of the lips and particularly the throat

CONSULT AFTERWARDS:
· Bothersome itching

What You Can Do
· If there are associated problems, like breathing, the adequacy of the airway and breathing must be assessed immediately.

· It is important to try and determine if there are things that cause problems such as drugs, eggs, milk, chocolate, shellfish, cheese, nuts, pollens and insect bites.

· Wash the area of the rash once thoroughly with soap to remove any remaining irritants, thereafter avoid soap to the area.

· If the itching is bothersome, you may give a dose of Benadryl as directed or use 1% hydrocortisone cream to area as directed.

· Apply ice or cold compress to area for 20 minutes every 34 hours to help prevent itching.

Visiting Your Pediatrician
· A visit is required if rash spreads or becomes worse in appearance.
· If rash lasts over 1 week