One in every five pregnant women suffers from hives and skin allergy during pregnancy. Due to the changes in your body during pregnancy, the body is likely to release histamines causing the allergy. The increased hormones and other bodily changes are inevitable that will make you become more sensitive to allergens. The allergy may result from food, insect bites, medicine, chemicals, stress, pollen or even clothing.
Symptoms of Hives During Pregnancy
- Itching
- Welts that are raised
- Pain around welts
- Dry skin
Are Hives and skin Allergy Dangerous During Pregnancy?
Most cases of hives are not dangerous and will clear within a short time. It’s necessary that you seek the advice of allergist especially if you experience the below symptoms which may result in severe skin allergy also known as urticaria.
- Difficulty in breathing and shortness of breath
- Face swelling and wheezing
- Fainting
It’s essential that you consult your allergy doctor immediately you have the above symptoms to avoid complications during pregnancy.
Home Remedies to ease hives and skin allergy during Pregnancy
- An oatmeal and baking powder bath will help alleviate the itching that results from hives. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory effects and skin protecting properties.
- Shower with lukewarm water as hot temperatures will trigger a higher flow of blood causing more itching. Cold water will reduce the itching by shrinking the pores of the skin.The alkalinity in baking soda will soothe the skin and reduce itching.
- Ensure your skin is moisturized as dry will make the itching worse. Olive oil and aloe vera are good skin moisturizers. Aloe vera contains glucomannans that accelerate the skin healing process.
- Take foods rich in Vitamin C as they contain antioxidants and antihistamine which will help manage hives and skin allergy. The vitamins also help the body break down histamines reducing the effects of the allergens.
- Avoid scrubbing the affected area with soap
- A cup of green tea will help your body eliminate toxins and allergens relieving the itching effects. Green tea contains polyphenols that are antioxidants and anti-inflammation properties.
- A clean cloth dipped in milk and applied to the inflamed area will help ease the inflammation
- Rub garlic on the affected areas. Three tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar in filtered water will also relieve the itching symptoms.
- Complement the food you are allergic to avoid the allergic reaction
- Ensure that you are stress-free and practice relaxation techniques to relieve the effects of allergens and to prevent developing complications during pregnancy
The above simple home remedies will help ease the signs and symptoms of hives and lower the risk associated with allergies. Although hives and skin allergy are harmless to you and your baby, and will most likely resolve on their own its imperative that if the symptoms prolong, visit the nearest skin allergies clinic for medication.