Conventional medicine should be also used for children of any age if the hives are accompanied by fever, joint pain or any symptoms that would indicate a systemic allergic response. For example, respiratory distress, wheezing, or any difficulty breathing or swallowing may signal the onset of anaphylactic shock. Although this systemic allergic response is rare it can rapidly lead to a life-threatening situation. Call 911 or seek emergency treatment at once if your child has respiratory difficulty along with the hives. Alternative medicine is an appropriate first step in the treatment of uncomplicated hives for children two years of age and older.
Alternative therapies are especially helpful in treating hives caused or worsened by stress.
Guided Imagery uses the mind's ability to imagine to enable the body to adapt better to stress or illness. Even children as young as 4 or 5 can be guided to imagine with their senses that the hives are fading and the itching is resolving. The concentration of the child on this exercise will distract them from the discomfort they are experiencing and decrease anxiety. Herbal Medicine offers remedies to treat the hives internally and topically. Some herbal teas act as antihistamines such as basil, chamomile, fennel, tarragon and oregano.