It’s quite common for a child to suddenly break out in hives. Nonetheless, parents may not know what to do. Is it serious? Should you call a doctor? Are they really hives?

Here are a few quick guidelines:

  • Hives (urticaria) are sudden skin bumps that are quite common in children.
  • They typically appear on the chest, stomach, or back. They are raised, swollen bumps or welts and very itchy. They may be skin-coloured or pink (even reddish).
  • Sometimes, hives are just a symptom of a mild allergic reaction. When they appear alongside other symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, swelling or an upset stomach, you should call 911 immediately.

Common Causes of Hives in Children

If your child suddenly breaks out in hives, it is usually due to:

  • A viral infection, such as the common cold (even with no other symptoms). This is the most frequent cause in young children.
  • Allergies. Hives can be a reaction to specific foods (most commonly peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, or shellfish), insect bites, pollen, animal dander, or medications.
  • Environmental stresses, such as heat (sweating), intense cold, sun exposure, tight clothing, or pressure on the skin.

Not Sure It’s Hives?

Hives are really itchy, they turn pale if you press the centre, and they typically move around, change shape, and disappear within 24 hours without leaving a bruise or scar. New ones may continue to pop up.

If you are not sure whether your child’s rash is hives, the LAM Skin Check can help. It can also help you decide whether your child’s reaction requires medical attention.

  1. Take a quick photo
  2. Answer questions as prompted by our clinically-tested AI pediatric triage bot LIA
  3. Take action as recommended.

What to do for severe reactions

Hives can sometimes be the first sign of a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately if your child develops hives along with any of the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or a change in voice
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Dizziness, fainting, or sudden extreme lethargy
  • Severe stomach cramps, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Widespread, rapidly spreading hives over most of the body

When hives are just a mild allergic reaction

If your child has a localized, mild case of hives and is acting normally, you can generally manage the symptoms at home. 

The LAM Child Health App can help you assess whether you need to go to the doctor. 

Once you know that your child is not having a severe reaction, you can soothe the symptoms as follows:

  • Apply cool, wet compresses or give them a lukewarm bath to ease itching.
  • Dress them in loose, comfortable cotton clothing.
  • Use over-the-counter antihistamines may be used to reduce itching, but consult a pharmacist or doctor for the correct dosage based on your child’s age and weight. You can track medication use with the LAM Medication Tracker so you never miss a dose!

Little Angel Medical Helps Parents Make Good Choices

While hives can be uncomfortable, they are only temporary and won’t leave any lasting scars or bruises. However, the stress parents experience while worrying can certainly leave a mark!

That’s why the founders of Little Angel Medical decided to develop cutting-edge AI-powered child health monitoring tools. We are medical professionals and parents, and we know what it is to need answers to health-related questions right away.

Our patented, clinically-tested child health monitoring app gives parents the help you need now. Use the Skin Check to get a quick assessment of any skin issue, including hives, based on clinical data. If you have questions, you can use our pediatric chatbot, LIA, to learn more. Either way, you will be guided on what to do next.

Download a free trial today!