DR. PARINAZ HUMRANWALA M.D.(Hom) CONSULTANT HOMOEOPATH
PREVENTING URTICARIA
In some cases of Urticaria (Hives) we know what causes or induces them but there are many cases where we have no clue as to its exact causation. Other than the allergic agents there can be other causes which trigger the urticaria/hives namely stress, hormonal imbalance, exercises or temperature related causes etc.
Hives may appear within minutes or several hours after ingestion of the food depending on its rate of absorption.
Here are the most common triggers/allergens which are known to cause urticaria/hives:
- Eggs.
- Certain Dals eg. Foods made from Chana dal, Urad dal
- Certain Non-veg diets - Fish, shellfish, prawns, sea-food, Crab meat, Lobsters, chicken etc.
- Synthetic and natural food additives and artificially-flavoured/coloured food items.
- Nuts e.g. peanuts.
- Fermented foods eg. Idli, dosa etc.
- Chocolates.
- Alcohol.
- Milk and milk products, e.g. Cheese.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:
- Exposure to pollen.
- Dust.
- Animal dander.
- Fungi.
- Sudden change in temperature.
- Exposure to extreme cold or heat.
OTHER FACTORS:
Hives may also occur as a reaction to some medicines or drugs, such as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), used to treat pain, ACE inhibitors, used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) ,chemical dyes, colours, creams or ointments etc.
You may not be allergic to all but may be to a few of the ones listed above, by avoiding certain of these in your diet you may check whether you are allergic to any of them. If you know you are allergic to certain food items it is better to avoid the same till you’re instructed by your physician.