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Home treatment for itching or hives

You may be able to relieve itching or hives by:

  • Avoiding further contact with whatever you suspect is causing the hives.
  • Using a cool washcloth to help relieve itching.
  • Taking an antihistamine, such as Benadryl or Chlor-Trimeton, to help treat the hives and relieve itching.
    • Read and follow any warnings on the label.
    • Check with your doctor before giving an antihistamine to a child younger than 1 year.
  • Not using strong soaps, detergents, and other chemicals, which can make itching worse.
Author Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD
- Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD
- Emergency Medicine
Last Updated July 11, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: July 11, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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