Urticaria, or hives is a common kin condition in which red, itchy eruptions appear on the skin. They vary from small goose pimples to large raised welts, and they may appear suddenly anywhere on the body. Hives are caused by the release of histamines in the skin tissue in response to foreign irritants either ingested or in physical contact with the skin. Chemicals, pesticides, household cleaning products, soaps, shampoos, perfumes, pet dander, and insect bites are a few of the many irritants that can cause hives. Strong emotions, stress, and some foods can also produce allergic reaction in the skin. Although uncomfortable, hives cause no permanent damage. Common symptoms include severe itching, redness, and swelling, and there may be a severe burning sensation just beneath the skin. Symptoms can last anywhere from twenty-four hours to several weeks or occasionally can become chronic and last for months. However, hives can be a medical emergency when accompanied by any difficulty breathing, or swelling in the throat.

The energetic meridians run through the body just under the surface of the skin. When hives appear, causing itching, in Chinese medicine it is described as wind invading the skin and the meridian channels. Redness and swelling indicate heat and/or toxins combined with the wind pathogen. Proper treatment focuses on resolving the underlying triggers involving dietary or lifestyle alterations to eliminate irritants or eliminating the pathogen that causes the allergic reaction. We use special herbal preparations-both topically and orally-to immediately reduce the itching. Then use acupuncture.