Relief for Your Skin and Your Nerves
Stress hives usually calm down once the itch is treated and stress levels fall. The most effective approach combines medication for the skin with steps to reduce what is driving the flare.
7 Steps to Calm Stress Hives
- Take a non-sedating antihistamine such as cetirizine, loratadine or fexofenadine as the label directs.
- Cool the skin with a damp cloth for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Avoid scratching and heat from hot showers.
- Wear loose cotton.
- Practice slow breathing for a few minutes several times a day.
- Move your body with gentle walking, avoiding overheating.
- Prioritize sleep with a consistent schedule.
What to Avoid
- Aspirin and other NSAIDs if they seem to worsen hives
- Alcohol and very spicy foods during flares
- Sedating antihistamines for routine daily use
More ideas are in our guide to treating hives at home.
Long-Term Stress Management
Regular exercise, mindfulness, therapy or support groups can reduce stress over time. If anxiety or low mood are ongoing, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. Read about hives and anxiety.
When to Call 911
Do not wait it out: hives with shortness of breath, noisy breathing, a hoarse voice, swelling of the tongue or throat, dizziness, a racing pulse, or repeated vomiting are signs of a possible severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Call 911 immediately.
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. Dr. Tiffany Young founded the Hives Treatment Center in San Francisco, a practice focused on diagnosing and treating stress hives.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Get Rid of Stress Hives
How fast do stress hives go away?
Many fade within hours to days with antihistamines and rest.
What if they keep returning?
Hives lasting more than six weeks are chronic and need a medical evaluation. See chronic hives.
Is a supplement helpful?
There is no strong evidence that supplements treat hives; check with your doctor before trying any.
Get Relief for Your Hives
If calming measures do not stop the flares, get a plan tailored to you. 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.
