Urticaria, also called hives, is a skin condition that causes itchy welts to appear all over the body. When these welts last for more than six weeks and reappear over the course of months or years, they are referred to as chronic urticaria or chronic hives. Like a few other skin conditions, the true cause of chronic urticaria is unknown. But, some home remedies are known to be helpful in treating the condition. 

1. Wear loose-fitting clothing
Tight clothes tend to worsen chronic urticaria symptoms. So, people who experience hives may notice more intense flare-ups and symptom aggravation if they wear tight-fitting clothes frequently.

2. Use a gentle, organic, scent-free moisturizer
It is important to note that the elements or ingredients that trigger chronic urticaria flare-ups can vary from person to person. But, avoiding chemical-based products and switching to organic ones is considered to be a safer option, as the latter reduces the possibility of flare-ups and skin allergies.

3. Try oatmeal scrubs
This is one of the most common home remedies for managing chronic urticaria symptoms. Oatmeal contains a range of anti-inflammatory components that make it an excellent moisturizing agent for the skin. One can gently rub oatmeal on the affected area to alleviate skin discomfort. Taking lukewarm showers after using oatmeal scrub and gently rubbing the areas of the skin where urticaria-related welts appear frequently is also a great way to soothe skin inflammation.

4. Avoid trigger foods
Certain foods trigger skin allergies in those dealing with skin-related health conditions like chronic urticaria. But, it is important to know that the list of foods that can trigger symptoms of chronic hives can vary from person to person. So, there is no established list of foods to avoid. But, one can always consult a healthcare professional who will help them identify foods that may cause abnormal skin reactions. Then, one can avoid or limit the intake of these trigger foods.

5. Take cold showers
Inflammation is a major cause of skin flare-ups and allergic reactions. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the skin cool, moisturized, and well-hydrated. According to dermatologists, chronic hives flare up when blood vessels dilate. By keeping the skin cool and hydrated, this dilation of blood vessels can be avoided, which helps alleviate the symptoms of chronic urticaria. For starters, drinking plenty of water is essential for internal hydration. Additionally, taking a bath after applying oatmeal or baking soda to the skin can enhance this cooling process and speed up the relief.

6. Change the bed sheets regularly
The type of bedding one uses can also affect chronic urticaria flare-ups. For instance, cotton bedding and sheets with a higher thread count are softer and more helpful for dealing with the condition. Generally, it has been observed that when the skin comes into contact with coarse fabric, the risk of developing dry and itchy skin increases. This is why it is necessary to change the bed sheets periodically.

7. Use cold compresses
The itching and swelling associated with chronic urticaria are caused by heat accumulation in the skin. To alleviate these symptoms, it is recommended to use a cooling cloth or ice pack. This can help reduce the heat and swelling associated with chronic urticaria flare-ups. Additionally, applying ice cubes to the affected areas of the skin is another way to alleviate itching and pain. It is advisable to apply a cold compress (using a barrier cloth) or an ice pack for about 5 to 10 minutes at a time. Using a barrier cloth is essential for preventing direct contact between the ice and the skin, as that tends to worsen skin irritation.

8. Manage stress
While this may not seem like a major problem, stress is often an underlying cause or even a trigger for many skin conditions as well as other health issues. Being under constant stress tends to increase the possibility of inflammation and skin flare-ups. One way to manage stress better is by practicing meditation and yoga regularly. One can meditate and also use mindfulness techniques to keep their stress levels in check at all times.