Question 1

What is Chronic Urticaria?

Accepted Answer

Chronic urticaria is a condition where raised, itchy welts (hives) appear on the skin and persist for six weeks or longer. It is caused by histamine release from mast cells in the skin, which triggers inflammation and swelling. The Histamine Release (Chronic Urticaria) test is the most important test for diagnosis because it directly measures mast cell activity.

Question 2

What causes chronic hives?

Accepted Answer

Chronic hives are caused by histamine release from mast cells in your skin, which triggers inflammation and swelling. This histamine release can be triggered by allergens like pet dander, certain foods, medications, stress, temperature changes, or infections. In many cases, the exact trigger remains unknown, which is why chronic urticaria is sometimes called idiopathic urticaria, but identifying potential allergens through testing can help you manage and avoid triggers that worsen your symptoms.

Question 3

What is the best test for chronic hives?

Accepted Answer

The Histamine Release (Chronic Urticaria) test is the most important test for chronic hives because it directly measures how much histamine your mast cells are releasing, which is the primary mechanism causing your welts and itching. This test confirms whether your symptoms are histamine-mediated and helps guide treatment decisions. Additionally, the Histamine, Plasma test measures circulating histamine levels to assess overall histamine activity in your system, while specific allergy tests like the Cat Epithelium/Dander (e1) IgG can identify particular triggers such as pet allergens that may be causing your recurring hives.

Question 4

When should I get tested for chronic hives?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have been experiencing recurring hives or welts that last for more than six weeks, if your hives are interfering with your daily activities or sleep due to intense itching, or if you suspect certain triggers like pet exposure or specific foods are causing your outbreaks. Testing is especially important if over-the-counter antihistamines are not providing relief or if you want to identify specific allergens to avoid. Getting tested early can help you develop a targeted treatment plan and improve your quality of life by pinpointing avoidable triggers.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of chronic hives?

Accepted Answer

The main symptoms of chronic hives include raised, red or skin-colored welts that appear anywhere on your body, intense itching that often worsens at night, and swelling of the skin that comes and goes unpredictably. Individual hives may last for a few hours before fading, but new ones continue to appear for weeks or months. Some people also experience angioedema, which is deeper swelling in areas like the lips, eyelids, or throat, and the welts may change shape or location throughout the day.

Question 6

Who is at risk for chronic hives?

Accepted Answer

Anyone can develop chronic hives, but they are more common in adults between ages 30 and 50, and women are affected twice as often as men. People with allergies, autoimmune conditions like thyroid disease or lupus, or a family history of hives have a higher risk. Those who have frequent exposure to common triggers like stress, certain medications (especially NSAIDs or antibiotics), extreme temperatures, or infections are also more susceptible to developing chronic urticaria.

Question 7

What happens if chronic hives are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If left untreated, chronic hives can significantly impact your quality of life by causing persistent itching, sleep disturbances, and emotional stress from the unpredictable appearance of welts. While chronic hives are not typically life-threatening, severe cases can lead to angioedema with swelling in the throat that may affect breathing and require emergency treatment. Untreated chronic urticaria can also lead to skin damage from constant scratching, secondary infections, anxiety, and depression from dealing with a chronic condition that affects your appearance and comfort.

Question 8

Can chronic hives be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Chronic hives are primarily diagnosed based on your symptoms and medical history through a clinical examination, but blood tests play a crucial role in confirming the diagnosis and identifying triggers. The Histamine Release test and Histamine, Plasma test can confirm that histamine from mast cells is causing your symptoms, while specific IgG and IgE allergy tests can identify allergens like pet dander, foods, or environmental triggers. Blood tests may also check for underlying conditions like thyroid problems or autoimmune diseases that can contribute to chronic urticaria.

Question 9

How is chronic hives treated?

Accepted Answer

Chronic hives are typically treated with daily antihistamines to block histamine and prevent welts from forming, with higher doses sometimes needed for stubborn cases. If antihistamines alone do not work, your doctor may prescribe omalizumab (Xolair), an injectable medication that reduces IgE antibodies and mast cell activity, or other immune-modulating medications like cyclosporine or corticosteroids for short-term use. Identifying and avoiding specific triggers through allergy testing is also a key part of treatment, and working with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized management plan can help control symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Question 10

How can I prevent chronic hives?

Accepted Answer

Preventing chronic hives starts with identifying and avoiding your specific triggers through allergy testing and keeping a symptom diary. Common prevention strategies include managing stress through relaxation techniques, avoiding known allergens like certain foods or pet dander, wearing loose-fitting clothing to reduce skin irritation, and avoiding extreme temperatures or rapid temperature changes. You should also be cautious with medications like aspirin and NSAIDs that can trigger hives, avoid alcohol which can worsen symptoms, and maintain a consistent antihistamine routine as prescribed by your doctor even when you are not having an outbreak.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with chronic hives?

Accepted Answer

Natural remedies that may help manage chronic hives include applying cool compresses or taking cool baths with colloidal oatmeal to soothe itching and reduce inflammation, and wearing loose, breathable cotton clothing to minimize skin irritation. Some people find relief by taking quercetin or vitamin C supplements, which have natural antihistamine properties, though you should consult your doctor before starting any supplements. Stress reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help since stress is a common trigger, and avoiding hot showers, tight clothing, and scratching can prevent worsening of symptoms.

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.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

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.

Chronic Hives Blood Test

What is Chronic Urticaria?

What causes chronic hives?

What is the best test for chronic hives?

When should I get tested for chronic hives?

References

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