What are Hives?
Hives, also known as urticaria, are a common skin condition characterized by raised, itchy, and often red welts or bumps on the skin. They can appear suddenly and may vary in size and shape. Hives can result from an allergic reaction to allergens like food, medications, insect stings, or contact with certain substances, but they can also be triggered by non-allergic factors like stress or infections. Hives can be acute, lasting for a few hours to several weeks, or chronic, persisting for more than six weeks. Although hives are usually harmless and resolve on their own, they can be uncomfortable and distressing.
How Can Laguna Allergy Medical Boutique Help?
At our practice in Aliso Viejo, our board certified allergists provide:
- Biologics
- Skin Prick Test
- Blood Allergy Testing
- New Patient Consultations
What are Biologics?
Biologics are medications designed to help manage the disease for patients with chronic, uncontrolled symptoms related to hives. By modulating the immune response, these medications aim to reduce the chronic inflammation and itching associated with chronic cases, offering relief to patients who haven’t responded adequately to other treatments.
What is the Skin Prick Test?
This test is essential for accurately diagnosing hives and identifying the underlying allergic triggers. During this test, tiny amounts of suspected allergens, such as food, insect venom, or environmental triggers, are applied to the skin’s surface, usually on the forearm or back. If an allergen is responsible for your condition, it often triggers a localized allergic reaction in the form of a small, itchy bump or hive within 15-20 minutes. The size of this reaction can help your Laguna Allergy provider pinpoint the specific allergen causing the hives.
What is Blood Allergy Testing?
Blood allergy testing can be a valuable tool when the underlying cause is suspected to be an allergic reaction to specific substances. This test, also known as specific IgE blood testing, measures the levels of allergen-specific antibodies in the blood. If an allergen, such as a food, medication, or environmental trigger, is the suspected cause of the hives, blood allergy testing can help identify the allergen responsible. This information aids in confirming the diagnosis and guiding treatment decisions. Once the trigger is pin-pointed, your Laguna Allergy provider can develop personalized allergen avoidance strategies and treatment plans that may include allergen-specific immunotherapy or dietary modifications to effectively manage and alleviate hives in these cases.
Schedule a Consultation for Hives in Aliso Viejo, CA
If you or your child suffers from acute or chronic hives, schedule a consultation with our board certified allergists, Drs. Gillian Bassirpour and Kristen Walters. They can conduct thorough testing to identify potential allergens and offer biologics if the treatment is appropriate. Beyond the services listed above, we also offer a retail space featuring specialized items like pajamas designed for babies with eczema and books addressing food allergies, among other products. If you’re interested in discovering how Laguna Allergy can assist with hive-related questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to click the appointment button below or reach out to us at 949-287-4900.
