Health Encyclopedia

Browse A-Z Listings: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A-Z Listings

Hives in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Hives are raised, red, itchy patches of skin. They usually have red borders and pale centers. Hives range in size from ¼ inch to 3 inches or more across. They may seem to move from place to place on the skin. Several hives may form a large area of raised, red skin.

Hives are an allergic reaction of the skin. Your child can get hives because of a reaction to food, medicine, or infection. Other things can also cause hives. But sometimes the cause is unknown.

Your child cannot spread hives to other people.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

Many times children's hives are caused by something they can't avoid, like a virus or bacteria, or the cause may be unknown. However, if you think your child's hives were caused by a certain food or medicine, avoid it.
Keep your child away from strong soaps, detergents, and chemicals. These can make itching worse.
Put a cool, wet towel on the area to relieve itching.
Ask the doctor about giving your child a nondrowsy antihistamine, such as loratadine (Claritin), to help stop the hives and calm the itching. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

Your child has symptoms of a severe allergic reaction. These may include:
- Sudden raised, red areas (hives) all over their body.
- Swelling of the throat, mouth, lips, or tongue.
- Trouble breathing.
- Passing out (losing consciousness). Or your child may feel very lightheaded or suddenly feel weak, confused, or restless.
- Severe belly pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

Your child has symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as:
- A rash or hives (raised, red areas on the skin).
- Itching.
- Swelling.
- Mild belly pain or nausea.

Your child gets hives after starting a new medicine.

Hives have not gone away after 24 hours.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

Your child does not get better as expected.

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Content Version: 14.0

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.

Disclaimer