Hives, medically known as urticaria, is a common skin condition in infants. It shows-up through a few signs like small or large-sized raised-bumps on skin. These are either round or odd-shaped, and are red, pink, or skin-colored. These bumps are itchy, causing your baby to become fussy. Your baby may rub or scratch his / her skin. Hives on babies can be worrying, though not serious.
Hives are formed when your body releases histamines – chemicals causing inflammation and itching, in response to an irritant. Hives can pop up anywhere on your infant’s body; however, the most noticeable signs of hives on babies are the sudden appearance of raised, red or pink bumps on their skin. These occur on their face, tummy, arms as well as legs.
In addition, you may notice the bumps vary greatly in size, shape, and location. Some babies develop swelling, particularly around their eyes, lips, or hands. While this swelling can look concerning, it usually goes down in ~ 2 or 3 days.
Hives on baby
Of the many things, food-based allergies may trigger hives on babies. Babies may develop allergic reactions to foods such as cow's milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, or wheat. In addition, allergies due to drugs, especially due to antibiotics like penicillin - can trigger hives in a few infants. Other allergens include insect bites or wasp stings, pet dander or pollen.
Infections are another frequent trigger for hives in babies. Viral illnesses such as colds or flu often precede an outbreak of hives. Bacterial infections like streptococcus throat can also sometimes cause hives. A few physical conditions can cause hives; babies can develop hives from heat or sweating, especially if they are overdressed.
On the other hand, some babies may develop hives upon being exposed to cold air or water. Pressure on skin from tight clothing or diaper bands might lead to hives in sensitive infants. Additionally, excessive drooling can irritate a baby's sensitive facial skin and result in bumps that resemble hives.
Identifying and removing triggers is an important step in managing hives. If you have recently introduced a new food, detergent, or skincare product, consider eliminating it temporarily to see if the hives improve.
It helps to dress your baby up in loose, breathing fabric like cotton clothing; this prevents overheating and minimises skin irritation. Keeping your baby's nails short or using soft mittens can prevent scratching that might lead to skin damage or infection(s).
If hives persist for more than 2 days, cover large areas of your baby’s body. If the skin condition shows up along with fever, it is best to consult your pediatrician. They can help determine any underlying infection(s) or allergy needing treatment.
There are a few warning signs needing immediate medical attention. If your baby develops difficulties in breathing or starts to wheeze, develops significant swelling of face or tongue, becomes drowsy, or skin turns pale or blue, these are indicative of severe allergic reactions known as anaphylaxis. This is indeed a medical emergency, and you need to seek medical help right away.
Are hives temporary or permanent?
In most cases, hives are temporary and resolve within a few hours or days; these are acute forms of hives. However, in some cases, hives can persist for more than six weeks; these are labeled as chronic forms of hives.
Acute hives – any particular irritation or allergen, like a viral infection or food allergy triggers this. Once the trigger is removed or the infection resolves, hives usually disappear.
Chronic hives – this is less common and is often more difficult to manage. Chronic hives can persist for several months or even years. It is usually hard to figure out what is causing them. Moreover, it can affect your baby's quality of life, resulting in severe spells of itchiness and allied discomforts.
What are the medications used for managing hives?
Medications are available to help relieve symptoms of hives in babies. The most widely prescribed drug for hives is an antihistamine. These meds work by blocking the effects of histamine, the chemical causing inflammation of skin. For babies, pediatricians might suggest cetirizine or loratadine, which are generally safe for infants - when used at an optimal dose.
Your pediatrician may prescribe milder forms of corticosteroids to treat severe spells of hives. These meds help to reduce inflammation and relieve itchiness. However, corticosteroids can trigger side effects; so they are strictly used for short-term.
What other treatment-options are available to cure hives on babies?
In addition to medications, several other treatment-options can also relieve symptoms of hives and promote healing. Options include:
Ice compressions - Using a cool cloth or an ice pack wrapped in a towel on itchy spots can make a difference. It helps controlling both itchiness and swelling.
Cool baths - Giving your baby a cool bath can also help relieve prickling sensation. Colloidal oatmeal can be added to the bath water to protect and soothe the skin. You can avoid using hot water when bathing your kid because it may exacerbate their itchiness.
Loose clothing – You can dress your baby in soft, loose clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton. Use of tight clothes can rub against your baby’s skin and cause hives to get worse.
Avoid scratching – You can dissuade your baby from scratching the affected areas. Scratching can further irritate the skin and can raise possibilities of infections. Instead, you can make your baby wear mittens to prevent scratching.
Hives is not a contagious condition; so there is no need to worry about the condition spreading to others. While they might look alarming, the good news is hives are usually harmless and quite temporary in babies. Knowing the signs, causes, and ways to treat them can help you take care of your baby and ease their itchiness.
In most cases, hives disappear on its own in ~ 24 to 48 hours; but occasionally it can persist for long. You need to check with a qualified child specialist doctor before offers any drugs to your baby. Also, care to get clinical help right away if you notice severe symptoms.
Disclaimer
Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.