Soak in a lukewarm bath or use cool compresses. Avoid heat or rubbing. Take antihistamine medicine to reduce the allergic response. The effects of hives can last from a few hours to several weeks or months. Hives will eventually clear without treatment, but taking drugs such as antihistamines or corticosteroids help the hives go away faster, treat the itch, and prevent new hive formation.
Chronic urticaria lasts for a longer period.
Antihistamines are usually very helpful. The hives resolve spontaneously after weeks or months but may recur off and on. Call the doctor or 911 at once if you have an allergic response that affects your breathing. If your face begins to swell around the eyes and lips, call your doctor or 911 at once. Take antihistamines or other medications to help relieve your symptoms.