Hives and angioedema may appear together or separately on the body. Angioedema usually lasts one or two days, and may reoccur with or without hives over an indefinite period of time. Swelling can occur in the airways, such as the larynx, tongue and throat, as well as on the face and other extremities. It has been demonstrated that a blood protein deficiency is the cause of this inherited illness. Avoidance of the foods, drugs, or other provoking factors is recommended whenever possible.
Hydroxyzine is especially effective for the treatment of cholinergic urticaria.
If the hives do not respond to the antihistamines, many medical practitioners will utilize corticosteroid drugs, such as prednisone, which are given in conjunction with the antihistamines. Most patients will improve with steroid treatment, physicians say, but if possible they should be avoided for chronic use. Nevertheless some patients require them. After a suitable interval, the individual can then discontinue use of the steroid drugs, since long-term therapy is not recommended. At that time, continued treatment with antihistamines is suggested until they are no longer necessary.