Hives and welts are usually just a harmless skin rash however, studies have shown that certain diseases such as lupus, lymphoma, and thyroid disease may make you more susceptible to hives, making hives and welts possible early indicators of a more serious condition. The skin is the largest organ of the body and as such, it is a window doctors can use to better understand the maladies of the body. For example, cancer can make patients more susceptible to the sun causing itching, hives, and welts. Reactions to chemotherapy can cause hives and welts making it essential to call your doctor if you are a cancer patient and suffer from hives or itching.

Hives or Welts and Other Symptoms of Lymphoma

While hives and welts alone are usually not the sole indicator of a more serious disease such as lymphoma, when they are paired with other symptoms they can act as a warning sign. There are three distinct forms of lymphoma (www.cancer.org). Hodgkins and non-Hodgkins patients may suffer from itchiness paired with night sweats, weight loss, fever, fatigue, and swelling of the lymph nodes. Cutaneous T-Cell lymphoma (CTCL), which affects the skin, presents itchiness as well as skin infections, dark patches, and tumors. Hives are particularly associated with gastrointestinal, thyroid, and lymphoma cancers. Cutaneous T-Cell lymphoma is easily mistaken with eczema, psoriasis, and hives and welts caused by contact dermatitis. Corticosteroid creams used for these skin conditions can calm CTCL further delaying correct diagnosis for years. While hives and welts are not a cause for immediate panic, when they are paired with the above symptoms it is important to visit your doctor as multiple biopsies may be necessary to diagnose CTCL.

Hives Welt and Autoimmune Disease

Rashes are also symptoms of lupus and thyroid disease. Hives most often occur in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Grave’s disease (thyroid.about.com). Patients suffering from these two forms of thyroid disease typically have high levels of thyroid peroxidase antibodies and suffered from chronic hives or angioedema (effecting the deeper levels of the skin) without other indicators of the thyroid disease. Relief for patients with high antibody levels was found in levothyroxine treatment though for those without antibodies the drug has little effect. Hives can also be a symptom of celiac disease (inability to digest gluten). Interestingly in a study from 2008, individuals with thyroid disease were also found to have a high incidence (3.4% versus 0.6% and .25% in control groups) of celiac disease. Researchers also found that untreated celiac disease could trigger autoimmune responses and disease (http://thyroid.about.com/cs/latestresearch/a/celiac.htm). Hives can develop with systemic lupus, often indicating inflammation of the capillaries.

Red welts on the skin can be indicators of a common rash, bacterial or fungal infection, and in certain instances of a skin disorder or internal disease. Most individuals will experience some form of rash or hives during their lifetime most, starting with “diaper rash” and a case of poison oak or ivy. Often red welts on the skin will clear on their own without the need for specialty treatments. When the red welts are recurring or do not clear on their own medications may be necessary and in more severe cases a visit to the doctor required.

Red Welts on the Skin – Common Skin Irritations

The most common skin rash among adults is seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001959/) is characterized by red, whitish, or yellowish scaly skin usually found on the head, face, and ears, and other oily areas of the skin. In infants it is often referred to as “Cradle Cap” due to its prevalence with infants. Seborrheic dermatitis can be treated with dandruff shampoos that contain one of the following ingredients: salicylic acid, coal tar, zinc, resorcin, ketonazole, or selenium. On the skin topical immune modulators can be used.

Another common cause of welts on skin is contact dermatitis. An allergic or chemical reaction on the skin, your skin must physically come into direct contact with an irritant for contact dermatitis. Red welts are commonly found on the neck and other parts of the body where nickel jewelry is worn. Other irritants may be ingredients in shampoos, soaps, and laundry detergents as well as specific allergies to certain fabrics. Poison oak and poison ivy are also caused by contact dermatitis. Especially in cases of poison oak and ivy it is important not to itch as the welts can begin to weep and are very uncomfortable.

Red Welts on the Skin – Chronic Skin Conditions

Eczema is a common skin disorder that can be found on both children and adults. Eczema is characterized by red, itchy, weeping rash on the skin. It can be found on the joints such as the ankles, elbows, and knees, the cheeks, and neck. A link has been shown between asthma and hay fever and eczema, underlying a histamine cause of the skin welts (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090518213939.htm). Scientist found that untreated cases of eczema led to atopic skin march, triggering the symptoms of asthma. Statistically 50-70% of children with eczema will develop asthma. As dry skin can also be a cause, omega-3 supplements can help eczema. Psoriasis is another condition that forms in bumpy patches and red welts on the skin. Often times painful, psoriasis sufferers may need specialty prescription medication to manage outbreaks.

Skin eruption and hives effect nearly 20% of the population at some point in their lives. While general skin eruptions may take on a variety of physical forms with distinct characteristics, raised welts on skin are characteristic of hives. Skin eruptions and hives have specific triggers that lead to the reaction. Often allergic in nature, skin eruptions can be due to an internal trigger like the ingestion of a food or drug that you are allergic to, or an external trigger such as welts caused by a wool allergy. Taking note of the physical characteristics of the outbreak can help you to determine the trigger and avoid it in the future.

Large Itchy Welts – Deducing the Cause

Large itchy welts are indicators of a histamine reaction by your body. Large itchy welts and their prevalence on the body can actually help to deduce the cause of the skin eruption and hives. Welts that are isolated to a specific part of the body and do not spread are most likely a reaction to something the skin has come into direct contact with such as wool, jewelry, soap, or lotion. In cases where the welts begin to spread or become more pronounced an internal reaction may be the culprit. Take note of what you have eaten recently as food allergies and intolerances tend to manifest within a short amount of time after ingestion. Reactions to drugs can happen immediately after taking the drug or several hours later. Drug reactions differ from simple food allergies as the skin may erupt in welts, purple or red discoloration, or scaly and thickened patches. If you suspect a reaction to a drug you are taking call your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the reaction and notify them if you stop taking the medication.

Skin Eruption and Hives

Other forms of skin eruption can be caused by more serious medical conditions. Stasis dermatitis is a weepy, oozing skin eruption that occurs on the legs of individuals with poor circulation. Many people who have celiac disease complain of skin eruptions and hives after eating contaminated foods or using products that contain gluten. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease with a propensity that is considered to be hereditary. Celiacs are unable to process the protein found in gluten (sources include wheat, rye, barley, spelt, and other grains), which causes an allergic reaction in the intestinal tract that can cause severe damage and increases the likelihood of developing cancer. In a medical case study (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2659909/) physicians found that chronic hives dissipated within five to eat weeks of the patient adhering to a 100% gluten free diet.

Itchy dots on skin can be irritating and unsightly. Regardless of the cause, of which there are many, it is very important not to scratch the dots to prevent cuts, infection, and the spread of the bumps. There are a number of over the counter remedies that can help relieve the itching and inflammation. Calamine lotion is one of the most trusted remedies (http://www.medicinenet.com/calamine_lotion-topical/article.htm). The lotion is applied directly to the skin and is gentle to enough to use on children. Topical creams containing hydrocortisone are also shown to relieve itching.

Hard Itchy Bumps – Oral Antihistamines

To aid with severely itchy dots on skin oral antihistamines can provide relief. Blocking the body’s histamine reaction that causes the itching, oral antihistamines tend to have longer-lasting effects. Benedryl is a common antihistamine sold in most drugstores however, drowsiness is a considerable side effect. Claritin (loratadine) is another antihistamine used for general allergy symptoms as well as chronic skin irritation. A prescription medication, loratadine has greater side effects including uneven heart rate, seizures, jaundice, and feeling light headed.  As with all oral drug therapies, it is important to check the label for dosage information for children and infants before administering it.

Itchy Dots on Skin – Natural Remedies

Taking cooling soaks and baths can help to alleviate the inflammation and heat caused by irritated skin. Using warm or cool water, pour one cup of baking soda and one cup of cornstarch into the water allowing them to dissolve, soaking for 10 minutes or until the skin begins to feel less itchy. Milk baths have also been found to help with itching dots on skin. If the effected area is small, apply milk directly to the skin or on a towel. A natural compliment to bathing is the application of aloe vera. Aloe vera has natural anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antibiotic properties and can be applied directly from the plant. If you have a fresh plant cut a leaf length wise, smearing the gooey inner part on the skin. If you prefer you can also put the plant in the freezer first for a cooling effect. For those without an aloe vera plant, the extract can be found in drugstores and is usually stocked near sunscreen. A paste made of baking soda and water can also be applied to the skin as can a paste made from tumeric and milk left on the skin for 10 minutes. Essential oils are an excellent way to relieve dry skin and rashes. A mix of nut oil, neem oil, and tea tree oil can reduce itching while lavender and rosemary oils are soothing.

Often, red itchy spots on skin are caused by an allergic reaction either through direct contact on the skin or ingestion of an allergen. The red itchy spots tend to appear rapidly after contact and can usually be treated with a topic hydrocortisone cream and/or an antihistamine pill. However, red itchy spots on skin can be an indicator of other skin disorders, infections, and illnesses. If red itchy spots on skin become extremely bothersome or do not clear within a couple of days it is wise to contact your physician for a consultation and diagnosis.

Red Itchy Spot – Chicken Pox

Chicken pox is an infection caused by the varicella virus (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/chickenpox/DS00053). While there is a vaccine for chicken pox people, especially children, still contract the virus with varying degrees of severity. Once a person is infected the virus is highly contagious and is transmitted easily through contact with infected individuals. Fortunately, the vaccine is safe and effective and those who have already caught the virus are immune from further infection. Symptoms of infection include the appearance of red itchy spots on skin on the face, neck, scalp, chest, and back. It is important not to scratch chicken pox spots, as in their second stage they become blisters that burst and form a crust. The third and final stage is the scabbing of the burst blisters, taking several days to heal. Other symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, headache, dry cough, and malaise. It can take up to 48 hours for spots to appear though the patient is contagious during this time and until the blisters crust over. It is very important to make an appointment with a doctor to appropriately diagnose chicken pox. While usually mild, sever cases include the formation of lesions in the throat, eyes, mucous membranes of the urethra, anus, and vagina, and sometimes disorientation, rapid heartbeat, tremors, vomiting, shortness of breath, and a fever higher than 103˚ F.

Red Itchy Spot – Chicken Pox Treatment

It is recommended that pregnant women who have never had chicken pox receive a vaccine against the virus as contraction of the virus during pregnancy can pose significant and sometimes life-threatening complications to the baby. In healthy individuals the virus is allowed to “run its course” without the use of drug treatment. For those who are at high risk of complications medications may be prescribed to shorten the duration of the infection. Common medications prescribed for children in these cases are acyclovir (Zovirax) or immune globulin intravenous (IGIV). It is important never to give aspirin to a child or adult with chicken pox as it can cause Reye’s syndrome.

Red itchy bumps on the skin are a general symptom and can be a sign of harmless bug bites, chicken pox, rashes, or something more serious. While minor skin inflammations can be treated at home with over-the-counter remedies, it is important to check with your doctor when you experience irritation for an extended amount of time or if the red bumps spread, reducing the risk of infecting other people. It is also important not to scratch red itchy bumps on the skin to prevent infection, scarring, and further inflammation. Depending on the location of the red itchy bumps on the skin, lice could be the cause.

Red Itchy Bump – Lice

Lice can be found living in body hair and clothing. There are three types of lice: head lice, body lice, and pubic lice (http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/). Body lice are larger than other forms of lice (about the size of a sesame seed) and live in clothing, bedding, and on the skin. Severe itching, due to bites, usually is centered in areas where fabric is close to the body such as the waist, underarms, or bra area. Body lice can carry trench fever and other disease making it important to see a doctor. Pubic lice (crabs) are found in the pubic hair as well as armpit hair and eyebrows. Lice eggs or nits can be seen attached to the hair shaft. Most cases are due to sexual contact though rare cases of transmission may be due to coming into contact with contaminated fabrics or public toilet seats. In young children, it is also important to check eyelashes with a strong magnifying lens to ensure there are no lice present which can cause an eye infection (blepharitis). Head lice are common among children and are easily spread. Red itchy bumps on the skin of the head (scalp), shoulders, and neck is an indicator of head lice infection. Head lice are small and hard to see requiring a magnifying glass.

Treating Lice and Red Itchy Bumps

Treatment for lice varies on the type the patient has. In general, permethrin can be used for all types, either washing the clothing, body, or hair with a wash and/or shampoo. Body lice are largely a hygiene issue with frequent bathing and washing and drying of clothing in a hot dryer sufficient means to kill body lice. Permethrin is required to treat pubic lice as is washing all clothing, towels, and bedding. For head lice shampooing with a 1% permethrin wash can usually eliminate head lice when used along with a fine-toothed comb to extract nits.

Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (PEP) is a skin condition that usually develops during the third trimester of pregnancy however, in rare cases, women can experience PEP as early as 20 weeks. PEPS effects mostly first-time mothers and women with multi-gestational pregnancies. In a study by researchers in Britain and Austria, data from 505 pregnant women was reviewed revealing 21.6% incidence of polymorphic eruption of pregnancy. PEP, or PUPPS (pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy) as it is known in the United States, appears on the belly near the navel, often spreading to the legs, breasts, and arms. Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy usually clears after giving birth. However, some mothers continue to suffer from the rash up to six weeks after delivery with some complaining of recurrent itching during menstruation several years after giving birth. It is suspected that the persistence of the rash after delivery may be due to remnants of the placenta left in the womb. In approximately 7% of cases, women experience PEP during subsequent pregnancies.

Polymorphic Eruption of Pregnancy – Links to Fetal DNA

While the exact cause of Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy is unknown, its occurrence solely during pregnancy suggests an interaction between the mother and the fetus. A study published in The Lancet compared biopsies of women with PEP carrying male fetuses, female fetuses, and non-pregnant women found small amounts of fetal cells in PEP lesions. Using PCR primers to test for male DNA, six of the ten women with PEP were pregnant with male fetuses. Fetal cells can migrate from the uterus to the skin of the mother leading to dermatological disorders. These results suggest chimeric cells change the skin tissue.

Polymorphic Eruption of Pregnancy – General Tips

For women in their third trimester polymorphic eruption of pregnancy can lead to sleepless nights and desperation. There are many remedies however there are some general tips that all women should follow in order to be more comfortable. As difficult as it is, do not scratch. Scratching can worsen the inflammatory response and cause lesions in the skin making it susceptible to infection. Because the rash is feverish, try and stay cool. Heat and sunlight can make PEP more uncomfortable. Take warm to cool showers at least once a day. Women have also found milk baths and oatmeal soaks to be soothing to the skin as well. Using emollients such as creams or ointments are also soothing for the skin.  During the day a cold wet compress can provide spot relief. In general wear loose cotton clothing, or as some women advise, as little clothing as possible.

While most women go through their pregnancy with relatively few complications, one in 160 to 240 women will experience pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPS). PUPPS rash and pregnancy hormones are not directly related though the rash only develops during pregnancy. The second most common dermatological issue of pregnancy (after atopic eruption of pregnancy) PUPPS normally occurs in 73% of primigravidae (first-time) pregnancies during the third trimester (around 35 weeks) with 11.7% of women who are affected by PUPPS having multi-gestational pregnancies. PUPPS rash and pregnancy dermatological issues should be discussed with a doctor in order to properly diagnose and prescribe an appropriate treatment plan. While most dermatology issues during pregnancy are mere irritants, more severe disorders and illnesses can manifest on the skin making a doctor’s visit important.

PUPPS Rash and Pregnancy – Symptoms

PUPPS usually appears in stretch marks (striae) on the belly near the bellybutton, though the bellybutton is not the cause. Small, red, swollen bumps begin to appear in the skin of the stretch mark, increasing in size until they form larger bumps on the whole of the abdomen. Within a couple of days more severe cases will spread to the lower body, chest, breasts, and arms and may include small blisters. Fortunately, the rash does not spread to the face. PUPPS-related health threats to mother and child are nonexistent, with no side effects caused by the rash. However it is very itchy (pruritic) and can be annoying, causing increased discomfort through the most difficult final weeks of pregnancy. The most intense itching is usually within the first week of the rash, clearing entirely in an average of six weeks and/or after giving birth.

PUPPS Rash and Pregnancy – Cause

The exact cause of PUPPS is unknown. What is known is that it is not a form of autoimmune disorder, hormones, fetal abnormalities, or preeclampsia. There is a statistical correlation between multi-gestational pregnancies and PUPPS. According to Medscape Reference (http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1123725-overview), of the 11.7% of women with multi-gestational pregnancy and PUPPS, those with triplets (14%) are more likely to develop PUPPS than those with twins (2.9%). One suggestion is that the growth of the belly and subsequent stretch marks cause the body to react with an inflammatory response. There has also been an observed increase in weight gain (leading to stretch marks) of patients with PUPPS versus other pregnancies, which further supports the idea that the skin distension plays a factor in PUPPS development. While approximately 90% of women will development stretch marks during pregnancy they are not an automatic indicator that you will develop PUPPS or another complication.

PUPPS is an irritating and itchy skin condition that can develop in pregnant women, mostly occurring in the third trimester though sometimes sooner. While there is not a singular PUPPS rush treatment there are several remedies and methods that can provide relief to expectant mothers. Because the exact cause of PUPPS is unknown, doctors are only able to address the symptoms, causing the effectiveness of a PUPPS rush treatment to vary. PUPPS ranges in severity and should be treated on a case-by-case basis. Women who develop rashes during pregnancy should be examined by their doctors, as there are several skin conditions and disorders that become health threats to mother and child.

PUPPS Rush Treatment – Over-the-counter and Prescribed Treatment

Depending on the severity, women who are diagnosed with PUPPS can be given a number of different remedies. The most basic is the use of over-the-counter anti-histamines to help control the inflammation and histamine reaction. A&D ointment (commonly used for diaper rash) has been found to be highly effective. Anti-histamines tend to be mildly effective and a topical corticosteroid cream is typically administered as well. Class I or II corticosteroids such as Fuonex, Lidex, or Deltasone are commonly prescribed for PUPPS. In the most extreme cases an oral steroid may be prescribed. While the use of oral steroid therapy is considered safe late in pregnancy many women do not feel comfortable taking them. In such cases there are many homeopathic remedies that can alleviate the itching and stress caused by PUPPS.

PUPPS Rush Treatment – Homeopathic Remedies

Homeopathic remedies are a good alternative to chemical creams and lotions. First-hand advice can be indispensible when using homeopathic cures, making pregnancy forums a good place to search for cures. Many women swear by Grandpa’s Pine Tar Soap (http://www.grandpabrands.com/). Women should use Grandpa’s Pine Tar soap in a cool shower two to three times a day using a lightly abrasive cloth such as a loofah or natural fibered sponge. The effects are reported to last for about four to five hours. Following the shower many women like to use a lotion such as Colloidal oatmeal or GoldBond cream to prevent the skin from drying. Pine Tar cream is also another option. Soy soap is another option for women who don’t like the smell of Grandpa’s soap.

Oatmeal baths also have a soothing anti-inflammatory effect though the results do not last long. Some women recommend milk baths or putting baking soda in bath water. Orally, many women swear by dandelion tea (made from the leaves) or dandelion root capsules. Others suggest taking omega fatty acids found in flax seed oil to nourish the skin.

People who suffer from hives and their associated inconveniences are highly likely to appreciate information on how to stop itching from hives. Thus, it makes sense for them to read materials that describe home remedies for their hives and itching.

One of the basic tips on how to stop itching from hives involves taking it easy. It is well known that chronic hives in some people are triggered or exacerbated by stress. Thus, if these people allow their stress to get to them, they are likely to suffer the worst itching of their lives more often than they care to. If it is possible for them to eliminate the factors that provoke their stress, they should do so. If it is not possible, they should learn stress-management techniques and incorporate relaxing exercises and routines into their lifestyles. These can include yoga, meditation, prayer and some sports activities. Some forms of herbal tea can also be relaxing for some patients. They would obviously have to figure out what teas were best for them as each person is unique in biochemical terms.

Other tips on how to stop itching from hives involve the topical application of substances to the skin. These may include cortisone creams, a cream of tartar paste, oatmeal in one’s bath water and even plain, simple cold water in the shower. These can all help to minimize the itching associated with hives and make it manageable. Some people looking for more complete relief from their hives itching can take antihistamine medication instead.  By blocking the action of histamine on the skin, this medication reduces the symptoms associated with hives.

Urticaria Diet and Food

There are other ways for patients to figure out how to stop itching from hives. One of them involves consulting a hives specialist to find out what allergens trigger their hives in the first place. If their hives are triggered by certain foods, then identifying these foods and excluding them from their diets will eliminate their hives episodes and, naturally, the itching associated with those episodes.

They can also eat urticaria diets. These are diets designed to minimize hives in all those who suffer from them. They make the body less conducive to those biochemical reactions that trigger hives. Such diets exclude fermented food and food that contains high histamine levels. They also exclude foods with artificial coloring and foods that contain benzoates and chemicals such as BHA and BHT, which are food preservatives or additives.

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Resources

http://www.hives-treatment.com/how-to-stop-itching-from-hives.html

http://www.ehow.com/how_5303873_stop-hives-itching.html

http://www.urticaria.thunderworksinc.com/pages/lowhistamine.htm