Hives

The allergy specialists at UPMC Pinnacle provide diagnostic testing and treatment for acute and chronic hives in children and adults.

Why choose UPMC Pinnacle for treatment of hives?

Hives can be acute, meaning that they started within the past six weeks, or chronic, meaning that they started more than six weeks ago. Acute hives may be caused by environmental, food, or medication allergies. Chronic hives could be caused by allergies, but also could be caused by underlying chronic conditions.

Whether you are experiencing chronic or acute hives, our specialists will provide comprehensive care to find the cause of your hives and rule out other health conditions. We offer a full range of diagnostic and treatment services, including:

Diagnostic Tests for Hives

• Skin testing for acute hives. Skin testing, also called scratch testing, exposes your skin to small amounts of allergy-causing substances (allergens) and can identify the cause of acute hives.
• Blood tests for chronic hives. Blood tests measure the amount of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood that are specific to certain allergens.

Medications for Hives

• Allergy medications. Some medications may be able to help treat or prevent hives, but may not be suitable if your hives are related to a severe or life-threatening allergy. Before you use any allergy medication, you should ask your doctor if it is right for your condition and symptoms.
• Epinephrine (EpiPen or Auvi-Q). If you are at risk of experiencing a severe or life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, your doctor may prescribe an injectable emergency medication called epinephrine. Epinephrine is usually given at the first sign of a severe allergic reaction, followed by emergency medical treatment. Your doctor will provide specific information about when and how you should use epinephrine.

Xolair/Omalizumab Shots for Hives

• If you are experiencing chronic hives that have not responded to antihistamines or steroid medications, our specialists offer Xolair/Omalizumab shots that may help to control chronic hives. Your doctor will let you know if these shots are right for you.

Patient Education for Hives

• Our specialists provide the education and information you need to manage your hives, including training on administering emergency medications and making recommendations for how you can prevent hives and avoid triggers.

Providers

• Larisa B. Fritz, MD
  Allergy & Immunology

Locations

UPMC Allergy and Immunology
Located at UPMC Outpatient Center
21 Waterford Drive
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Phone: 717-988-9180
Fax: 717-775-5723

Specialty Care ENT – UPMC
508 S. Washington Street
Gettysburg, PA 17325
Phone: 717-334-8171
Fax: 717-334-8172

Specialty Care ENT – UPMC
250 Fame Avenue
Suite 201, (Entrance A)
Hanover, PA 17331
Phone: 717-633-9229
Fax: 717-633-5552

Contact

Need more information?

Many of our providers offer video visits. Call the office or schedule via your patient portal.

Phone: 717-988-9180