AskDocDoc
/
/
/
Persistent itchy hives for 3 days, seeking advice
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #16643
45 days ago
127

Persistent itchy hives for 3 days, seeking advice - #16643

Kavya

Hi Doctor, I have been experiencing itchy hives for the past 3 days. They appear and disappear randomly and sometimes cause mild burning sensation. I haven’t applied any new products or eaten anything unusual that I know of. Could you please advise: 1. If I need any immediate treatment or medication. 2. Any home-care measures to reduce itching and irritation. Thank you!

Age: 21
Chronic illnesses: None
Rash
Hives
Urticaria
300 INR (~3.53 USD)
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
45 days ago
5

Hello dear See itching with burning can be due to either allergy or infection ( bacterial/ fungal) Iam suggesting some tests. Please get them done for confirmation Patch test Intradermal skin test Blood allergen test Esr Crp Hypersensitivity Culture You may be given following medication for relief Tablet terbinafine 250 mg twice a day for 10 days Tablet montair lc or Cetirizine twice daily for 3 days Fusidic acid topical application for 5 days Scabex for 5 days topical application I suggest you to please share result with general physician medicine for better clarity Please take these medicines only after confirmation of exact diagnosis Regards

1371 answered questions
62% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies

Randomly appearing and disappearing itchy hives can be uncomfortable, but they are often not serious. They might be caused by things like stress, underlying allergies, or an immune response. If you’re not having any difficulty breathing, swelling in the lips or throat, or feeling faint, immediate treatment is usually not necessary. However, if any of these symptoms develop, seek medical attention promptly as it might indicate a more serious reaction. For relief at home, consider using an over-the-counter antihistamine like cetirizine or loratadine, which can help reduce the itching. Make sure to check the dosage instructions on the package before taking them. Applying a cool damp cloth or taking a cool shower might soothe the irritation and reduce the burning sensation. It’s helpful to wear loose, breathable clothing to prevent further irritation. Also, try to identify any potential triggers you may not initially think of—such as changes in laundry detergents, exposure to pets, or stress. Keeping a diary of these hives can sometimes help identify patterns. If the symptoms persist for more than a week or worsen, or if hives become a recurrent issue, consider seeing a doctor. They might need to do an examination or recommend allergy tests to pinpoint the exact cause, if possible. Avoid stress and ensure adequate hydration as these can sometimes provoke or exacerbate hives. It’s key to avoid scratching, as this can sometimes prolong the irritation.

10625 answered questions
84% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
Dr. Nirav Jain
I am a qualified medical doctor with MBBS and DNB Diploma in Family Medicine from NBEMS, and my work has always been centered on treating patients in a complete, not just symptom based way. During my DNB training I rotated through almost every core department—Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Surgery, Orthopedics, ENT, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Emergency medicine. That mix gave me the skill to manage acute illness, long term disease and preventive care together, something I find very important in family practice. In psychiatry I worked closely with patients who struggled with depression, anxiety, stress related problems, insomnia or substance use. I learned not just about medication but also about simple psychotherapy tools, psycho education and how to talk openly without judgement. I still use that exp in family medicine, specially when chronic disease patients also face mental health issues. My time in General surgery included assisting in minor and major procedures, managing wounds, abscess, sutures and emergencies. While I am not a surgeon, this gave me confidence to recognize surgical cases early, provide first line care and refer fast when needed, which makes a big difference in online or OPD settings. Now I work as a consultant in General medicine and Family practice, with focus on both in-person and online consultation. I treat conditions like fever, infections, gastrointestinal complaints, respiratory illness, and also manage diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and lifestyle related chronic diseases. I see women for PCOS, contraception counseling, menstrual health, and children for common pediatric issues. I also dedicate time to preventive health, lifestyle counseling and diet-sleep-exercise advice, since these small changes affect long term wellness more than we often realize. My key skills include holistic diagnosis, evidence based treatment, chronic disease management, mental health support, preventive medicine and telemedicine communiation. At the center of all this is one thing—patients should feel heard, safe, and guided with care that is both professional and personal.
40 days ago
5

Hi ! Itchy hives appearing and disappearing are usually acute urticaria, and most cases settle within a few days.

Start with these medication - Tab. Levocetirizne 5mg at night. × 7 days. If itching is severe, take thus tab twice a day.

Home-care: Apply cold compress on itchy areas. Avoid hot showers. Use a mild moisturizer after bathing. Wear loose, cotton clothes. Avoid scratching. Stay away from triggers like heat, stress, and strong fragrances.

When to seek urgent care: Swelling of lips, tongue, or throat. Difficulty breathing. Hives lasting >2 weeks. Fever, joint pains, or new medications in past 1 week.

Feel free to reach out again.

Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, DNB D.Fam.Med

333 answered questions
44% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
45 days ago
5

If it is scabies:

1) Perlice lotion Apply below the neck and next apply on the 7th day 2) Tab levocetrizine 5 mg 1 tab at bedtime for 7 days

1158 answered questions
60% best answers

0 replies
Dr. Arsha K Isac
I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.
45 days ago
5

Hello,

Rx: tab cetrizine 10 mg once daily for 5 days

Avoid heat, scented soaps, and harsh detergents Use cold compresses, take cool showers, wear loose cotton clothes, and avoid scratching.

I trust this helps Thank you

621 answered questions
51% best answers

0 replies
Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat
I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.
43 days ago
5

Hello Kavya By going through your history and evaluation of your health status I must say that Itchy hives (also called urticaria) that come and go are usually caused by an allergic reaction, but sometimes the trigger isn’t obvious. Since you haven’t used new products or eaten anything unusual, it could be due to things like stress, temperature changes, or even a mild viral infection.

Immediate Treatment - If you have difficulty breathing, swelling of lips/tongue/throat, or severe dizziness - If it’s just mild hives and itching, you don’t need emergency treatment.

Home-Care Measures - Cool compress:Apply a cold, damp cloth to the itchy areas for relief. - Loose clothing:Wear soft, loose clothes to avoid further irritation. - Avoid scratching: Try not to scratch, as it can worsen the hives. - Mild soap: Use gentle, fragrance-free soap and avoid hot showers. - OTC remedies: antihistamine like cetirizine or loratadine for relief .

Thank you

383 answered questions
40% best answers

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions