Causes of Hives in Children

While hives is a condition that can affect anyone, it is more prominent in children because of their underdeveloped immune system. It is a condition characterized by itchy rashes that appear all over the body. The medical name for this condition is urticaria. More often than not, this condition treats itself, but in some cases, a doctor's visit may become imperative. Children are highly prone to developing an outbreak of hives. Obviously, unless the cause is not known, the condition cannot be prevented or treated. Here, we delve into what causes hives, and some simple ways in which it can be treated.

Causes

Hives are caused when the body releases histamines due to a sensitivity reaction. This results in the development of small red bumps all over the body, which is one of the most common symptom of hives. Sometimes, these bumps disappear from one part of the body and appear on another. The causes of hives in children are highly varied, from being minor to some conditions that are major.

• Allergic Reactions: Usually hives is the outcome of an allergic reaction that children may suffer from. Allergies caused by pollen, dust, cat or dog hair, certain food additives such as preservatives, peanuts, food coloring, fish, eggs, milk, etc. may show themselves in the form of an outbreak of hives. Hives may also occur when a child is forced to wear tight, uncomfortable clothes made of irritating materials such as polyester.
• Infections: Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and other parasitic microorganisms all result in hives in children. It has been seen that when kids suffer from common cold they are likely to develop hives.
• Reaction to Medication: Some kinds of medicines such as ibuprofen cause hives in children as a side effect. It is however possible that hives may occur if any kind of medication does not agree with a child's body.
• Sudden Temperature Changes: When kids are exposed to varied temperatures suddenly, it is possible that they may develop hives. Moving from the cold to hotter areas and vice versa is a known cause for this condition. Similarly, prolonged exposure to harsh sunlight or to extreme cold weather can be a cause for this condition in children.
• Stress: Not many are aware that sometimes the body reacts by causing hives even due to high stress levels. If you notice your little one developing this condition around an upcoming exam, or any other situation that she/he finds stressful, it is likely that stress is the reason this is happening. This is also a kind of a defense mechanism adopted by the body to avoid the stress causing situation.

In rare cases will the cause of hives be an extreme condition such as thyroid, leukemia and cancer. This happens because the body's immune system is weakened in the presence of such conditions. Finally, the condition may just be idiopathic urticaria or a breakout of hives due to a cause that is unknown. In cases such as these, the condition usually cures itself.

Treatment

As mentioned earlier, hives are most likely to treat themselves. However, if you find this condition occurring way too often, it's time to visit a doctor who will prescribe certain tests to determine the cause of the breakout and will also tell you how to treat it. The treatment will then be administered accordingly. Antihistamines may be given to control the outbreak of this condition, and your child may be advised to stop the consumption of any particular food that causes the condition. The idea is to keep a tab of the things your child did on the day such a breakout occurred. Slowly, you will be able to narrow down on the actual cause and utilize the appropriate treatment measure. If it is idiopathic, medication and certain natural treatment methods for hives may be administered. These include topical application of aloe vera gel on the affected area, or milk of magnesia, calamine lotions, ice, and vitamin E oil. A healthy diet that provides nutrients that enhance the effectiveness of the immune system is essential. While the prime nutrient that does so is vitamin C, a balanced diet is the key to preventing this condition and is also a good cure for hives.

With the knowledge of the causes of hives in children, it is possible that you will be able to figure out what exactly is resulting in this annoying outbreak in your little one. Do remember that if it happens too often and does not subside very easily, seeking medical advice is your best option. Do not ignore this condition, as it may also be a symptom of another health problem your little one may be suffering from.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.