HIVES in Roswell GA, Alpharetta GA, and Marietta Georgia

Hives

When the cause of hives is known, the most important step is to eliminate the trigger.
When the cause is unknown (as for most people with chronic urticaria), medications can provide relieve from the symptoms.
Antihistamines provide the firsts step in medical treatment. Antihistamines are very effective when used properly. However, an antihistamine may not provide sufficient relief if the particular medication is not strong enough, the medication is not taken in sufficient doses, or the medication is not taken long enough to suppress the symptoms.
Non-sedating antihistamines include:

• Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Desloratadine (Clarinex)
• Fexofenadine (Allegra)
• Loratadine (Alavert, Claritin)
• Levocetirizine (Xyzal)

Additional medications may be prescribed if a non-sedating antihistamine alone does not provide sufficient relief.
Sedating types of antihistamines may be suggested for use at night because they tend to cause sleepiness. These include diphendyramine (Benadryl), hydroxyzine (Atarax), cyproheptadine (Periactin) or doxepin.
Interestingly, some of the medications used to control stomach acid can help to control hives. These medications, called H2-receptor antagonists, include cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), ranitidine (Zantac), and nizatidine (Axid),
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may also be prescribed to rapidly bring the hives under control. Because of the  side effects associated with long-term use of corticosteroids, they are usually prescribed for short-term use.
It is important to take your medication as prescribed.


Marcus B. Goodman, DO, FAOCD
Board Certified Dermatologist
Fellow of the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology
Diplomate of the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology
Clinical Associate Professor at PCOM - Georgia Campus, Suwanee, GA

Goodman Dermatology, P.C.
2500 Hospital Blvd, Suite #150
Roswell, GA 30076 and Alpharetta, GA 30004
770-754-0787
http://www.goodmandermatology.com/

Attention Alpharetta, Roswell, Marietta, Milton, GA "Same day appointments with the dermatologist" rash, psoriasis, hives, acne, eczema, rosacea, warts, mole removal, botox, juvederm, latisse, and more! www.goodmandermatology.com