How to Treat Hives in Your Baby

Most hives in babies are caused by a viral infection and will resolve on their own within a few days. Keep your baby hydrated and dress them in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. A cool bath or cool compress can soothe the itching. If the hives are widespread, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like fever, difficulty breathing, or swelling, seek immediate medical attention. Do not give your baby any over-the-counter medications without first consulting your pediatrician.

Treating hives (urticaria) in a baby requires careful observation and, depending on severity and cause, potential medical intervention. Do not attempt home remedies without first consulting a doctor, especially if your baby is showing signs of distress.

First Steps:

• Identify the trigger: If possible, try to determine what might have caused the hives. Common triggers include food allergies (milk, eggs, soy, peanuts, wheat, etc.), insect bites/stings, infections (viral or bacterial), medications, heat, cold, or pressure. Keeping a record of what your baby ate, touched, or was exposed to can be helpful for your doctor.
• Assess severity: Are the hives mild and isolated, or widespread and accompanied by other symptoms like swelling (angioedema), difficulty breathing, or wheezing? Widespread hives or any signs of difficulty breathing are medical emergencies requiring immediate attention.
• Call your doctor: Even if the hives seem mild, it's best to contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional for guidance. They can assess your baby's condition and advise on appropriate treatment.

Possible Treatment Options (Prescribed by a Doctor):

• Antihistamines: Your doctor may prescribe an antihistamine like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) in an appropriate dosage for your baby's age and weight. Never give your baby medication without a doctor's explicit instructions.
• Topical corticosteroids: For severe itching, a topical corticosteroid cream might be recommended. Again, only use this under medical supervision.
• Oral corticosteroids: In severe cases, oral corticosteroids might be necessary to reduce inflammation.
• Treatment of underlying cause: If an infection is identified, antibiotics or antiviral medications may be prescribed. If a food allergy is suspected, your doctor may recommend an elimination diet or allergy testing.

Things to Avoid:

• Home remedies: Do not attempt home remedies like applying baking soda paste or other unproven treatments.
• Over-the-counter medications: Do not give your baby any over-the-counter medications without consulting your doctor first. Many medications are not suitable for infants.
• Ignoring symptoms: If your baby's hives are worsening or accompanied by other symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention:

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
• Widespread hives covering a large portion of the body
• High fever
• Lethargy or unusual drowsiness
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns, especially concerning your baby.