Identifying the causes and treatment for Illinois residents suffering from Hives

Posted By: | Published On: | Allergy Treatment
Identifying the causes and treatment for Illinois residents suffering from Hives

Allergic reactions can show up in many ways, one of them being hives. Hives are swollen red bumps or patches of skin that often itch or burn. Hives can show up anywhere on the body and vary greatly in size and shape.

What causes hives?

Hives are often the body’s reaction to a specific allergen. When your body has an allergic reaction, the cells have an immune response and release a chemical called histamine. When this happens, plasma leaks out of the blood vessels located in the skin causing hives.

Acute urticaria is hives that are caused by an allergic reaction. Some of the main causes of acute urticarial hives include:

  • Specific foods – the most common are nuts, fish, eggs, berries, milk, and chocolate.
  • Medications – the most common are anti-inflammatory, blood pressure, and painkiller medications.

Diagnosing Hives

When we see a patient for hives, one of the first things we will need to do is determine the cause. This process begins with a series of questions to try to narrow down potential triggers. We may suggest allergy skin testing to determine what may have caused the allergic reaction. Blood work may also be done to rule out illness.

Treating Hives

One of the first ways to treat hives is to provide relief from the symptoms. This is done with the help of antihistamines. There are both over the counter and prescription antihistamines. We will be able to help you determine which medication is best. Taking them regularly can help prevent hives from forming. We will then work with you to take steps to remove the trigger.

It is always important to call our office if you experience difficulty breathing, dizziness, wheezing, swelling of the face, tongue, or lips, or rapid drop in blood pressure, as they may be a sign of anaphylaxis. Severe outbreaks of hives may require an injection of epinephrine.

If you are experiencing hives, there are ways to manage the symptoms before receiving medical attention. Cool compresses and wet clothes can provide relief, as will wearing loose-fitting clothing.

If you are an Illinois resident and would like more information about treatment for hives and other allergies, call us today to set up an appointment.

Share this Article


Back to Allergy Treatment Page

Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates, logo

Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates

Meredith Cirrincione | Dr. Noga Askenazi

Amy Schack, a distinguished board-certified Physician Associate, brings a wealth of expertise to patient care. Specializing in allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, asthma, and rashes, Amy is renowned for her commitment to excellence and compassionate approach. With a background in immediate care and orthopedics, she holds a Master's in Physician Assistant studies from Midwestern University and a Bachelor of Science from Northern Illinois University. A member of esteemed professional associations, including the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Association of PAs in Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, Amy Schack instills confidence, ensuring you can trust her unwavering dedication to your health and well-being.


Meredith Cirrincione is a board certified Physician Assistant and specializes in treating allergies, with a focus on asthma, rashes, environmental allergies, chemical and food allergies. She holds a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from The Chicago Medical School - Rosalind Franklin University of Health Sciences. She is a Fellow member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the Illinois Academy of Physician Assistants, and the Association of PAs in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. She likes to approach things holistically. She is a strong patient advocate and adored by her patients. She enjoys singing, reading, cooking, and the great outdoors.


Dr. Noga Askenazi is a nationally recognized asthma and allergy specialist who is board certified in pediatric and adult allergy. Her areas of special interest are innovative treatment of rashes, sinusitis, food allergies, asthma and immune disorders. She was past President of the ISAAI (Illinois Society of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology), works on state and national committees for advancement of the allergy field and is a consultant for Advocate, Ascension Health, Northwestern amongst other health care systems. Her joy is helping patients reach their goals after together determining best treatments. Her staff and patients are a chosen family, and she invests in their happiness. She enjoys gardening, biking and cooking to good music.


Penicillin Allergy Testing