Treating Hives at Home

Hives, also known as urticaria, are red, raised, itchy welts that can appear on the skin due to various triggers, including allergic reactions, medications, environmental factors, and sometimes unknown triggers.¹ While hives can be uncomfortable and at times alarming, there are several treatment options available to help manage and alleviate symptoms. This guide will explore over-the-counter (OTC) medications and home remedies for treating hives, as well as provide insights on when to seek medical attention.

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Hives Treatment Options

When it comes to managing hives, there are several effective treatment options available. Because hives often result from an allergic reaction — which can at times be severe — it’s important to speak directly with a doctor to ensure you’re following the safest treatment route.

Over-the-counter medicine for hives

Antihistamines: An over-the-counter antihistamine can be effective for reducing hives and itching.^2,3
Topical creams: Creams or ointments that contain corticosteroids can help relieve the symptoms of delayed pressure urticaria (a type of hives that occurs after pressure is applied to the skin). Hydrocortisone cream can help alleviate itching and inflammation. However, these treatments are not very effective for diffuse chronic urticaria (a more widespread and ongoing type of hives). Additionally, some topical creams may induce hives.

Take adult and children’s ZYRTEC^® for hives

ZYRTEC^® Hives provides fast relief that starts to work in under 45 minutes*. Be sure to follow all labeled directions carefully and consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions.

*Applies to 10 mg dosage

Home remedies for hives relief

For those wondering how to treat hives at home, there are a few options you can try:⁵

Cool compresses: Applying a cool compress to the affected area can help soothe itching and reduce swelling.
Oatmeal baths: Taking a warm bath with colloidal oatmeal can help soothe itching and inflammation. Simply add the oatmeal to warm water and soak.
Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid known triggers such as certain foods, medications, or environmental factors to prevent hives from worsening.
Choose clothing wisely: Wear loose-fitting, 100% cotton clothing to reduce skin irritation.
Keep a journal: If you are unsure of what is causing your hives, write down the date and time when hives started. Include details like where the hives appeared, what you were doing, what you ate or drank, any medications taken, environmental changes, stress levels, and the severity of symptoms. This can help identify patterns and potential triggers.⁵

For more detailed tips on how to soothe hives, check out our Managing Hives at Home article.

When to See a Doctor for Hives

While experiencing hives is not ideal, they often resolve on their own within a few days.¹ However, there are certain symptoms of hives that indicate a more severe reaction, which may require immediate attention from a medical professional:^6,7

Difficulty breathing: If you experience difficulty breathing, wheezing, or tightness in the chest, seek medical help immediately.
Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue: Swelling in these areas can be a sign of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) and requires urgent medical attention.
Dizziness or fainting: If you feel dizzy or faint, it could be a sign of a more serious condition.
Severe pain or discomfort: If the hives are causing severe pain or discomfort, it’s important to consult a doctor.
Prolonged symptoms: If your hives persist for more than a week, it’s a good idea to contact a physician. Persistent hives could be a sign of an underlying condition that needs to be addressed.

Additionally, if over-the-counter treatments are not providing sufficient hives relief, you should connect with a doctor. A healthcare provider can offer more targeted and effective solutions to help you manage your symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hives Treatment

References:

Cleveland Clinic. Hives. Published 2022. Accessed March 14, 2025. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8630-hives
Joint Task Force on Practice Parameters. The diagnosis and management of acute and chronic urticaria: 2014 update. Published 2014. Accessed January 31, 2025. https://www.aaaai.org/Aaaai/media/MediaLibrary/PDF%20Documents/Practice%20and%20Parameters/Urticaria-2014.pdf
MedlinePlus. Hives. Published 2023. Accessed January 31, 2025. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000845.htm
Detholia, K. K., Jadeja, M. B., Varia, U. R., Katariya, H. B., Panchal, V. D., Panchal, V. B., Prajapati, J. K., Chhipa, D. B., & Pandit, D. D. 2024. Innovative and alternative approaches to urticaria management. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 2, Issue 8, 2427-2436. DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.13168909
American Academy of Dermatology Association. Hives: How to get relief at home. Published 2024. Accessed January 31, 2025. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/hives-self-care
NHS Inform. Hives. Published 2023. Accessed March 17, 2025. https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/skin-hair-and-nails/hives/
American Academy of Dermatology Association. Hives: Diagnoses and treatment. Published 2024. Accessed April 10, 2025. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/hives-treatment