What should you know about pills for hives?

Hives, also called urticaria, are raised itchy welts that can appear and fade in different places. An oral antihistamine is commonly considered because it blocks histamine activity involved in many episodes. A clinician may use a short course of Oral Corticosteroid Treatment for selected severe flares, but it is not a routine self-treatment. Recurrent symptoms may need assessment for triggers, medicines, infection, or chronic urticaria.

Use only the product and dose advised for you, and check whether it causes drowsiness or interacts with alcohol, driving, or other medicines. Keep a record of new foods, medicines, heat, pressure, exercise, and infections around an episode. Cool compresses and loose clothing may ease discomfort. Do not keep escalating tablets without review when hives continue or return frequently.

Call emergency services immediately for swelling of the tongue or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, wheezing, dizziness, or faintness. Prompt medical review is also appropriate for painful swelling, persistent fever, bruising-like marks, or symptoms that do not behave like typical fleeting welts.

Could this be Hives or Angioedema? Which antihistamine is suitable with my other medicines? What should I do during a severe flare? How long should I continue treatment before returning for assessment?