The Link Between Anxiety, Itchy Skin and Welts
Anxiety and hives often travel together. Some people notice welts during a panic episode or a period of heightened worry, and people living with chronic hives report higher rates of anxiety. The relationship goes both ways: anxiety may trigger hives, and relentless itching can heighten anxiety.
Why Anxiety May Cause Hives
Anxiety activates the stress response, which can release substances that act on mast cells. Increased body heat and sweating may also bring on hives in people with cholinergic urticaria. See cholinergic urticaria.
Symptoms
- Itchy raised welts that come and go
- Burning or tingling skin
- Flushing of the face and neck
- Symptoms of anxiety such as racing heart or restlessness
Hives with breathing difficulty are not anxiety; they need emergency care.
Calming Anxiety Hives
- Use a non-sedating antihistamine as directed.
- Cool the skin with a damp cloth.
- Practice slow diaphragmatic breathing.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol.
- Seek support from a mental health professional if anxiety is persistent.
See how to get rid of stress hives for a longer plan.
When to Call 911
Go to the emergency room or call 911 immediately if hives are accompanied by difficulty breathing, wheezing, throat tightness, swelling of the lips, tongue or face, light-headedness or a sense that something is seriously wrong. These are warning signs of anaphylaxis.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if your symptoms last more than a few days, keep coming back, cover large areas, or interfere with sleep or daily life. The Hives Treatment Center in San Francisco, founded by Dr. Tiffany Young, is a dermatology practice dedicated to hives and related conditions, and is accepting new patients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anxiety Hives
Can a panic attack cause hives?
Some people develop hives or flushing during intense stress or panic.
Do anxiety medicines help hives?
Do not start or stop any medicine without your doctor. Some medicines can influence hives.
Are anxiety hives the same as stress hives?
They are similar; see stress hives.
Get Relief for Your Hives
Treating both the skin and the stress gives the best chance of relief. Visit our hives treatment page to see the latest treatment options for your outbreak.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911.
