Hives in babies
If your baby starts to scratch intently and then develops a rash, we’re most likely dealing with hives, also known as urticaria.
Hives in babies and children produce the same reaction and look the same as a nettle sting. Hives often pass as quickly as they came and without leaving a trace behind, but sometimes – albeit rarely – the baby might be having an allergic reaction that calls for rapid medical care.
What are hives?
Hives are a rash and they itch like crazy! The itchiness is caused by the release of histamine, which is the body’s defence mechanism when it comes into contact with something it can’t tolerate. First there is intense itchiness, and then comes the rash in one or more locations. The rash is usually white and raised (in different shapes and sizes), with surrounding redness. The rash often moves around the body and changes shape – without leaving a trace behind.
Hives have a range of causes, from an allergic reaction to a food, a physical cause such as coldness or physical exertion – or a reaction to a drug or infection. Often, you never really find out what the cause was, nor can any test reveal the trigger. The rash will disappear on its own within a few days, without leaving a mark behind. It may be good to know that hives are not contagious.
When should I seek medical care?
Hives are not usually dangerous, but if the baby has a significant rash all over their body alongside other symptoms, such as vomiting, itching, or difficulty breathing, it could be anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction. This is rare, but if it happens, it is important to quickly call for emergency medical help.
If the rash doesn’t pass within a week, or if it comes back, have it checked out by your paediatrician.
How do you treat hives?
Hives often pass on their own and don’t require treatment. A cooling balm can be nice for alleviating intense itching, but talk to the pharmacy staff or your doctor first, because some creams (for example those containing hydrocortisone) should only be used from a certain age.
If the rash doesn’t pass, a doctor may want to treat it with antihistamine, and if the allergic reaction is severe, it will likely be treated with cortisone and/or adrenaline. Severe allergic reactions are usually investigated to prevent them from happening again.
If you want to read more about baby’s skin and how to best care for it, you can find tips and help in our skin school.
Please note that all information above is based on Swedish recommendations.
