Chronic hives or what is commonly known as nettle rash can stay with an individual from six weeks in a single instance. In most cases, these hives – or what known in the medical world as urticaria, can persist for several years.

Specialists have been consulted by patients only to find out that doctors can not determine its root cause. This is because ninety- five percent of chronic hives is idiopathic. It means that no scientific reason can explain its cause.

What is common in people with chronic idiopathic hives is that they possess an immune system that attacks normal tissues. As a result, histamine is released in the skin that creates the pink/red patches and welts. Severe itching and burning sensation may even accompany it.

On the other hand, five percent of chronic hives is said to be discernible. A number of possible causes have been given. Here are the following:

- Metabolic Disease- People who suffer from high or low thyroid function, liver and kidney disease, skin disease or sinusitis have the potential to acquire chronic hives. – Use of certain medications like NSAIDS – Emotional Stress in the form of nervousness and depression can contribute as well. If the case of hives lasted for more than six weeks then it is very much possible that you are undergoing a high level of stress. – Allergies only account five to ten percent for most cases of chronic hives. If this happens, then a pet allergy is usually the cause. Inhaled pollen, and dust mite do not usually lead to chronic hives.

The diagnosis is usually made through the ruling out of known causes. It is also important to coordinate with your doctor by undergoing laboratory tests such as serum skin test, urine and blood test and possibly a skin biopsy.

Then after, it is important that you keep track as to what might cause the attack by taking down what you did and ate prior to the attack and the time and place of its outbreak.

Although most of the causes of chronic hives are unexplained, you can still do something to prevent it from occurring. Here are some useful tips that may help you prevent chronic hives.

- Know what triggers them and avoid these. These triggers may still include allergy in food, food additives, certain medications, physical or emotional stress and temperature extremes. – However, if the underlying cause is a health problem then the improvement of the existing medical problem is essential. – Keep track of all your activities, what you ate, the time and place the outbreak occurred. This can help you and your physician determine the cause of your hives. – Try implementing a stress management plan for yourself. You may eliminate stressors at work and at home and engage more frequently in stress reducing activities like relaxation.

Treatment for chronic hives is given only if the immediate trigger factor is identified. It primarily includes avoiding the trigger itself. Medical management may include the prescription of strong oral antihistamine and corticosteroids. It is also good that you match up with your doctor in order to find the appropriate medication or medication combination.

What are hives and hives remedies that are effective? Learn more about hives remedies and natural treatments online.