Question 1

What is Urticaria (Hives)?

Accepted Answer

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is characterized by red, raised, itchy welts on the skin that appear suddenly and may disappear within hours. It is caused by the release of histamine and other chemicals when the immune system overreacts to allergens such as pet dander, pollen, dust mites, certain foods, medications, or insect stings. The Respiratory Allergy Profile is the most important test for identifying environmental triggers that cause allergic urticaria.

Question 2

What causes urticaria (hives)?

Accepted Answer

Urticaria is caused by the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals from mast cells in the skin when your immune system overreacts to triggers. Common triggers include allergens like pet dander, pollen, dust mites, mold spores, certain foods (shellfish, nuts, eggs), medications (aspirin, antibiotics, NSAIDs), insect stings, latex, and even physical factors like pressure, cold, heat, or exercise. In some cases, infections, stress, or autoimmune conditions can also trigger hives, though the exact cause remains unknown in about half of chronic cases.

Question 3

What is the best test for urticaria (hives)?

Accepted Answer

The Respiratory Allergy Profile is the most important test for urticaria because it identifies specific environmental allergens like cat dander, dog dander, dust mites, mold spores, and regional pollen that trigger allergic hives. This comprehensive panel measures IgE antibody levels to common respiratory allergens in your geographic region, helping pinpoint exactly what substances are causing your immune system to release histamine and create those itchy welts. For food-related hives, additional food allergy panels may be recommended, and for chronic cases, your doctor might order a complete blood count (CBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), or thyroid function tests to rule out underlying conditions.

Question 4

When should I get tested for urticaria?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience recurring hives more than twice a week, if your hives last longer than six weeks (chronic urticaria), if you notice hives appearing after exposure to specific environments like homes with pets, or if antihistamines are not providing adequate relief. Testing is particularly important if your hives are accompanied by swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema), difficulty breathing, or if they significantly impact your daily life and sleep quality. Early identification of triggers allows you to avoid allergens and prevent future outbreaks.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of urticaria?

Accepted Answer

Urticaria appears as raised, red or skin-colored welts (wheals) that are intensely itchy and vary in size from small spots to large patches. The welts typically have defined edges, may be round or form irregular patterns, and blanch (turn white) when you press on them. They can appear anywhere on the body and often move around, disappearing from one area and appearing in another within hours. Some people also experience a burning or stinging sensation, and in more severe cases, swelling of deeper skin layers (angioedema) can affect the eyes, lips, hands, or feet.

Question 6

Who is at risk for urticaria?

Accepted Answer

People with a personal or family history of allergies, asthma, eczema, or hay fever are at higher risk for developing allergic urticaria. Women are more likely to experience chronic hives than men, and the condition most commonly affects adults between 20 and 40 years old. Individuals with autoimmune conditions like thyroid disease or lupus have increased risk, as do those who have experienced previous allergic reactions to foods, medications, or insect stings. Children with atopic conditions and people frequently exposed to allergens in their environment or occupation also face elevated risk.

Question 7

What happens if urticaria is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated urticaria can significantly impact your quality of life, causing chronic sleep disruption due to intense nighttime itching, which leads to fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and reduced productivity. Persistent scratching can damage the skin, creating openings for bacterial infections. In rare cases, hives can progress to angioedema with swelling of the throat or tongue, which can obstruct breathing and become life-threatening. Chronic hives lasting months or years without treatment often lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Identifying and avoiding triggers through proper testing prevents these complications and helps you regain control of your daily life.

Question 8

Can urticaria be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Urticaria itself is diagnosed through physical examination of the characteristic welts, but blood tests are essential for identifying what triggers your hives. Allergy blood tests measure specific IgE antibodies to allergens like pet dander, pollen, dust mites, and foods, revealing which substances cause your immune system to release histamine. For chronic urticaria, additional blood work including complete blood count, thyroid function tests, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein can help identify underlying conditions like infections, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune diseases that may be contributing to your hives.

Question 9

How is urticaria treated?

Accepted Answer

Urticaria is primarily treated with antihistamines like cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine, which block histamine release and reduce itching and swelling. For more severe cases, doctors may prescribe higher doses of antihistamines, add H2 blockers like famotidine, or recommend leukotriene inhibitors like montelukast. Chronic urticaria that does not respond to antihistamines may require omalizumab (Xolair), an injectable medication that reduces IgE levels. Corticosteroids like prednisone are used short-term for severe flare-ups. The most effective long-term strategy is identifying and avoiding your specific triggers through allergy testing, combined with keeping your skin cool and wearing loose, breathable clothing.

Question 10

How can I prevent urticaria?

Accepted Answer

Prevention starts with identifying and avoiding your specific triggers through allergy testing. Once you know what causes your hives, take practical steps like keeping pets out of bedrooms if you are allergic to dander, using allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers for dust mite allergies, monitoring pollen counts and staying indoors on high-pollen days, and carefully reading food labels to avoid allergenic ingredients. Keep a symptom diary to track patterns between exposures and hive outbreaks. Manage stress through relaxation techniques, avoid hot showers and tight clothing that can trigger physical urticaria, and take daily antihistamines as prescribed by your doctor if you have chronic hives.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with urticaria?

Accepted Answer

Natural remedies can provide relief alongside medical treatment. Apply cool compresses or take cool baths with colloidal oatmeal to soothe itching and reduce inflammation. Aloe vera gel applied directly to hives can calm irritated skin. Wear loose, soft cotton clothing to minimize skin irritation and avoid overheating. Quercetin, a natural antihistamine found in onions, apples, and berries, may help stabilize mast cells when taken as a supplement. Applying witch hazel or calamine lotion can reduce itching. Stress management through yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises helps prevent stress-triggered hives. However, natural remedies should complement, not replace, proper medical diagnosis and treatment, especially for identifying allergen triggers through testing.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Urticaria (Hives) Blood Test

What is Urticaria (Hives)?

What causes urticaria (hives)?

What is the best test for urticaria (hives)?

When should I get tested for urticaria?

References

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