Hives (urticaria) are a rash that can be intensely itchy.
The punch in involved in lupus typically lasts for more than 24 hours.
Chronic Urticaria vs. Urticarial Vasculitis
Although both conditions present with hives, there are clear differences.
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SLE involves a misfiring immune system that attacks healthy parts of your body.
Also, the inflammatory process is out of control, so it just keeps creating inflammation.
Hives are typically associated withallergiesor infectious illnesses.
Thats because theyre because of a chemical in your body called histamine.
The connections between lupus and hives arent fully understood.
However, theyre both known to involve the immune system and inflammation.
Other autoimmune disorders linked to chronic urticaria include:
What Do Hives Look Like?
Hives can appear as bumps, raised patches of skin, or both.
On light skin, hives generally appear pink or red.
Breathing Problems?
Always treat this as a medical emergency and get immediate treatment.
H1 Blockers
The first-line treatment is anantihistamine(allergy medication) called H1 blockers.
They interfere with how your body uses histamine.
You may be prescribed up to four times the usual dose to manage your hives if necessary.
(Dont increase the dosage unless your healthcare provider recommends it.)
Your healthcare provider may suggest other medications such as:
Risk Factor or Early Symptom?
Hives may be the earliest sign ofjuvenile SLE.
One study suggests that children who get hives have an increased risk of lupus.
Other Lupus Skin Problems
Lupus symptoms include several skin-related issues, varying from person to person.
They could signify a serious allergic reaction or an undiagnosed underlying illness.
They may run tests or refer you to a specialist for diagnosis and treatment.
Summary
Lupus can cause hives, likely because of the two conditions common autoimmune and inflammatory aspects.
Hives are raised, discolored areas of the skin.
Some lupus treatments, such as Plaquenil and steroids, may help eliminate hives.
However, antihistamines are typically the preferred treatment for hives.
Always see a healthcare provider for hives, especially if you dont know the cause.
A Word From Verywell
Hives can be severe and disruptive to your life.
Adding them on top of your other lupus symptoms can be a lot to deal with.
However, remember that hives can be treated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Its not fully understood why lupus sometimes causes hives.
Its believed to be due to the common underlying mechanisms: autoimmunity and inflammation.
Some research suggests autoallergy (allergy to parts of yourself) may also be involved.
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