Urticaria is commonly regarded as the result of an allergic reaction—more specifically a reaction to a pathogen (foreign to the body) that triggers histamine release within the body. As the histamine (fluid) is released from blood vessels under the skin it pools together to create the bumps, welts and patches characteristic of hives.
Hives often strike suddenly; they can appear anywhere and usually disappear just as quickly. The first indication is an itchy area on the body followed by redness. Soon the redness gives way to swelling which can lead to burning or stinging as well as the itching.
Although hives can be cause by a number of things (some unknown) common factors are food additives, chemicals in foods themselves (eggs, dairy and some nuts or seafood) drugs (even NSAIDs), household products such as cleaning aids or detergents or other environmental factors such as exposure to heat, sunlight or cold and/or insect bites/stings.
Stress and anxiety can also be instrumental in a reaction that causes hives. All humans respond to threats by either fighting or fleeing (instinctive). While deciding which path to take the body gears up for whatever the response may be. Extra stress hormones (adrenaline as well as cortisol and noradrenaline) are secreted, the heart begins pumping faster, breathing quickens, blood pressure rises, digestion slows and perspiration increases.
By taking physical action the body automatically exhausts the stress hormone. If you, however, do nothing or if in the case of excessive histamine release (for reasons unknown) the stress chemicals often remain in the bloodstream. Creates further anxiety, in many it results in hives.
If you are aware that it is stress—young mothers with four kids under eight years of age, competing for a coveted position or rank in your company or sports field, take measures to help overcome the symptoms the body is experiencing. Change your lifestyle if need be—and let it start with the diet.
The way in which we eat as well as what we eat both, play an important part in our body’s health. If stress and hives seem to go hand in hand in your life eliminate processed foods from your diet along with white flour/sugary foods and those high in calories or fat. Incorporate, instead, foods such as fruits and vegetables from the produce stand, lean cuts of poultry and cold water fish, legumes, nuts and seeds. These will ensure that the digestive system is working well and in turn give our immune system the back-up it needs.
Treatments such as stress management, deep breathing exercises and good old fashioned physical exertion will do more for the body then most give them credit for. Exercise on a regular basis is one of the best stress-reduction techniques you can implement. It improves health, relaxes tense muscles, improves blood flow (getting oxygen filled blood to every inch of the body) and enables a good night’s sleep. It also guarantees the sugars and oxygen your brain requires to function properly and with clarity, will be delivered.