Urticaria (hives) and stress, sleep: why flare-ups are more likely after staying up late

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Many people find that wheals and itching are more likely to appear or get worse after staying up late, working overtime for days, or feeling tense. Irregular daily routines and stress are not direct allergens themselves, but they may affect your body's state and make symptoms more obvious.

What you can do

• Try to keep a fixed bedtime and wake-up time, and get enough sleep
• Arrange regular light activity, such as walking and stretching, and avoid getting too tired
• Cut down on alcohol and strong tea or coffee, especially when symptoms are obvious
• Write down your sources of stress and plan small, doable steps for each one

Don't blame everything on emotions

Stress is only one possible factor. It should not make you ignore other triggers such as infection, medicines and physical irritation. Nor should you blame symptoms on "thinking too much" and delay seeing a doctor. If symptoms come back for more than a few weeks, it is best to see a doctor for a full assessment.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.