Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised and itchy welts appear on the skin due to an allergic reaction. These welts can vary in size, shape, and location and often occur suddenly. While hives may be a temporary annoyance for some, for others, they can be persistent and impact their daily lives. At South Florida ENT Associates (SFENTA), we specialize in identifying and treating allergies that cause hives, helping patients achieve lasting relief through expert care and cutting-edge treatments.
Common Allergies That Cause Hives
Hives occur when the immune system reacts to an allergen, triggering the release of histamine and other inflammatory substances. This response causes blood vessels to dilate, leading to swelling, itching, and redness.
Several common allergens can cause hives, including:
Food Allergies
Certain foods are well-known triggers for hives, including:
- Nuts (peanuts, tree nuts)
- Shellfish (shrimp, crab, lobster)
- Dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Eggs
- Soy and wheat
- Fruits (strawberries, citrus fruits)
Even trace amounts of these allergens can cause reactions in highly sensitive individuals, making proper diagnosis and management crucial.
Medication Allergies
Some medications can provoke an allergic reaction, leading to hives. Common culprits include:
- Antibiotics (penicillin, sulfa drugs)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (aspirin, ibuprofen)
- Blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors)
- Pain relievers and opioids
If you suspect a medication is causing your hives, it’s essential to consult an allergy specialist for proper testing and treatment options.
Environmental Allergies
- Everyday environmental factors can also trigger hives, including:
- Pollen (from trees, grasses, and weeds)
- Dust mites
- Pet dander (cats, dogs, horses)
- Mold spores
- Insect stings and bites (bees, wasps, mosquitoes)
These allergens may cause chronic or seasonal hives, making long-term management necessary.
Physical and Contact Allergies
Some hives result from direct skin contact with an allergen or a physical stimulus:
- Latex (found in gloves, balloons, medical supplies)
- Certain fabrics or detergents
- Heat, cold, or sunlight (temperature-induced hives)
- Pressure-induced hives (caused by tight clothing or prolonged sitting/standing)
When to See an Allergy Specialist
If you experience recurrent hives or severe allergic reactions, it’s time to consult an ENT and allergy specialist at SFENTA. Signs that warrant medical evaluation include:
- Hives lasting more than six weeks (chronic urticaria)
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat (possible anaphylaxis)
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Hives accompanied by fever or joint pain
- Frequent outbreaks triggered by unknown sources
SFENTA uses comprehensive testing to identify the root cause of your hives. Our diagnostic services include:
- Allergy testing (skin prick tests, blood tests, and patch testing)
- Food allergy testing (elimination diets, skin tests, and blood tests)
- Drug allergy testing (oral challenge tests, patch tests, and skin prick tests)
- Environmental allergy testing (exposure-based testing for pollen, mold, dust mites, and pet dander)
Once we determine the allergen, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to your needs, including:
- Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
- Allergy drops
- Biologic therapy
- Medications
Why Choose SFENTA for Allergy Care?
At South Florida ENT Associates, we have been providing expert allergy care for over 30 years. Our extensive network includes over 50 board-certified ENT doctors across 35+ locations in South Florida, ensuring that every patient receives personalized, high-quality care. Our patient-centered approach combines state-of-the-art diagnostic tools with the latest treatment options to deliver lasting relief.
Don’t let allergies and hives disrupt your life. Schedule a consultation with SFENTA today and take the first step toward effective allergy management and improved well-being.
