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What are the treatment options available for chronic hives?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 49-year-old female with chronic urticaria, and after seeing multiple doctors, I feel discouraged. Almost every appointment ends with yet another prescription for antihistamines. Why does a 49-year-old woman with hives find that most doctors offer no solutions beyond medication?

I understand that medications can help relieve symptoms, but I still do not know why this condition started or what is actually causing it.

Please guide.

Answered by Dr. Ashraf Ghani

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ashraf Ghani is a dedicated general medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive and evidence-based healthcare for adult patients. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, infections, respiratory illnesses, and lifestyle-related disorders. Dr. Ashraf Ghani focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Ashraf Ghani strives to help patients achieve better health through clear communication and quality medical care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I am sorry to hear that you have been dealing with this. Chronic urticaria can be incredibly frustrating, especially when every visit results in another prescription for antihistamines and few answers regarding the underlying cause.

Many people understandably want to know why their hives started, but in most cases of chronic urticaria, a specific trigger is never identified, even after thorough evaluation. This condition is often linked to the immune system becoming overly reactive, rather than a single allergy, food, or environmental exposure.

That is one reason many doctors prioritize symptom control with antihistamines, as they are often the most effective first-line treatment. However, if symptoms remain poorly controlled, there are additional options to consider, including higher doses of antihistamines under medical supervision.

These other medications modify the immune response, or biologic treatments such as Omalizumab for appropriate patients. It is completely understandable to feel discouraged when you are seeking both explanations and relief.

I hope you find this information helpful.

If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At July 18, 2026
Reviewed At July 18, 2026

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ashraf Ghani is a dedicated general medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive and evidence-based healthcare for adult patients. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, infections, respiratory illnesses, and lifestyle-related disorders. Dr. Ashraf Ghani focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Ashraf Ghani strives to help patients achieve better health through clear communication and quality medical care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ashraf Ghani is a dedicated general medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive and evidence-based healthcare for adult patients. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, infections, respiratory illnesses, and lifestyle-related disorders. Dr. Ashraf Ghani focuses on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Ashraf Ghani strives to help patients achieve better health through clear communication and quality medical care.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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