Identify and avoid triggers such as certain foods, medications, infections, heat, pressure, stress, alcohol, and insect stings
Stop or replace any suspected trigger medication only under medical guidance
Treat underlying causes if present, such as infections, thyroid disease, autoimmune conditions, or allergies
Use non-sedating antihistamines as first-line treatment, as directed by a clinician
Increase antihistamine dose only under medical supervision if symptoms persist
Use short courses of corticosteroids only for severe flares when prescribed
Consider advanced treatments for chronic urticaria that does not respond to antihistamines, such as omalizumab or other specialist-directed therapies
Manage stress, sleep, and overall health to reduce flare frequency
Keep a symptom and trigger diary to help identify patterns
Seek allergy or dermatology evaluation for persistent, recurrent, or severe urticaria
Get emergency care immediately if hives occur with swelling of the tongue or throat, breathing difficulty, dizziness, or fainting