Lifestyle and home remedies

If you're experiencing mild hives or angioedema, these tips may help relieve your symptoms:

• Avoid triggers. These can include foods, medications, pollen, pet dander, latex and insect stings. If you think a medication caused your rash, stop using it and contact your primary care provider.
• Use an over-the-counter anti-itch drug. A nonprescription oral antihistamine, such as loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec Allergy) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl Allergy, others), may help relieve itching. Consider whether you might prefer a type that doesn't cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about options.
• Apply cold washcloth. Covering the affected area with a cold washcloth can help soothe the skin and prevent scratching.
• Take a comfortably cool bath. Find relief from itching in a cool shower or bath. Some people may also benefit from bathing in cool water sprinkled with baking soda or oatmeal powder (Aveeno, others), but this isn't a solution for long-term control of chronic itching.
• Wear loose, smooth-textured cotton clothing. Avoid wearing clothing that's rough, tight, scratchy or made from wool. This will help you avoid skin irritation.
• Avoid the sun. When outdoors, seek shade to help relieve discomfort.