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Hives - Adults

Red, Raised Patches

Infants (Ages 0–2)Children (Ages 3–17)Adults (Ages 18–74)Seniors (Ages 75 and Older)

What it is

Hives are raised patches or small bumps that appear quickly on the skin. They can vary in size and may be itchy. Hives can appear, disappear, or move to different areas of the body within a short period of time.

What you can do at home

What to do
  • Wear loose-fitting, soft clothing. 
  • Apply cool compresses to the skin for 30 to 90 minutes, every 2 to 4 hours as needed. 
  • Use a mild soap and apply an unscented moisturizer, unless it makes the hives worse. 
  • Ask a pharmacist whether an over-the-counter medication may help. 

Take lukewarm baths

  • Take lukewarm baths for 10 to 30 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day. 
  • For children 2 years of age and younger, add 50 to 60 mL (about ¼ cup) of baking soda to the bath water. 
  • For children over 2 years of age and adults, add 250 to 500 mL (1 to 2 cups) of baking soda to the bath water. 
What to avoid 
  • If the cause of the hives is known, remove or avoid it. Identifying the cause may also help prevent hives from returning. 
  • Avoid scratching if the skin is itchy. 

When to seek medical attention

  • Fever is present. 
  • Pain and swelling occur in the joints (for example, the knee, elbow, or wrist). 
Children aged 2 to 11 years
  • The itching is severe. 
  • The itching does not improve after 24 hours, even after taking an allergy medication (antihistamine), such as Aerius, Allegra, Benadryl, Claritin, or Reactine. 
Individuals 12 years and older
  • The itching is severe. 
  • The itching does not improve after 24 hours, even after taking an allergy medication (antihistamine), such as Aerius, Allegra, Benadryl, Claritin, or Reactine. 
Skin patches that:
  • Appear and disappear without an obvious cause.
  • May be caused by a recently started medication.
  • Last longer than 7 days.
  • Cover a large area of the body. 

When to go to the hospital right away

Fever in high-risk individuals
  • People with weakened immune systems (immunocompromised) 
  • Pregnant individuals 
  • Infants under 3 months of age 
Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction
  • A high-pitched sound when breathing (stridor) or difficulty breathing 
  • Swelling of the lips, tongue, or face 
  • Widespread redness of the skin or intense itching 
  • Weakness or dizziness 
  • A very rapid heartbeat 
  • Abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea 

Need help?

Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.  

Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.  

Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.  

If you do not have a family doctor, go to https://gap.soinsvirtuels.gouv.qc.ca/en or call 811, Option 3.   

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