How Stress Rashes and Hives are Treated? Tips and DIYs

Stress rashes and hives are skin reactions that can occur when you are under physical or emotional stress. They can cause red, itchy, swollen, or bumpy patches on your skin that may come and go or last for a long time.

Stress rashes and hives are usually treated by addressing the underlying stress and managing the symptoms. Some of the treatment options include:

• Antihistamines: These are medications that block the effects of histamine, a chemical that is released by your immune system when you are stressed or exposed to an allergen. Histamine causes inflammation and itching in your skin. Antihistamines can help reduce these symptoms and prevent new hives from forming. You can buy some antihistamines over the counter, such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or Zyrtec (cetirizine), or get a prescription from your doctor for stronger ones, such as Allegra (fexofenadine) or Xyzal (levocetirizine).
• Steroids: These are medications that reduce inflammation and suppress your immune system. They can help treat severe or chronic hives that do not respond to antihistamines. Steroids can be taken orally, such as prednisone, or applied topically, such as hydrocortisone cream. However, steroids have many side effects and should only be used for a short time and under your doctor’s supervision.

• Other medications: Depending on your condition and symptoms, your doctor may prescribe other medications to treat your stress rashes and hives. These may include anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, leukotriene inhibitors, such as Singulair (montelukast) or Accolate (zafirlukast), immunosuppressants, such as cyclosporine or methotrexate, or biologics, such as Xolair (omalizumab) or Dupixent (dupilumab).
• Home remedies: There are some home remedies that may help relieve your stress rashes and hives. These include applying cold compresses, taking a lukewarm shower or bath with oatmeal or milk, using fragrance-free and dye-free lotions, staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol and caffeine, making an herbal poultice with chamomile or calendula, avoiding hot showers or high humidity, avoiding tight clothing or anything that rubs on your skin.

I hope these treatments help you get rid of your stress rashes and hives. Remember to consult your doctor before starting any new medication or changing your dosage. Also, try to reduce your stress levels by practicing relaxation techniques, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, seeking social support, and avoiding stressors if possible.