Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to and from the lungs, typically characterized by a persistent cough. Hives (urticaria) are a common skin reaction presenting as raised, itchy welts that can appear anywhere on the body. While bronchitis itself does not directly cause hives, the circumstances surrounding an acute case often trigger them. The two primary causes of hives during bronchitis are the body’s systemic immune response to the underlying infection or an allergic reaction to the medications used for symptom management.
Understanding the Connection Between Bronchitis and Hives
Hives appearing during a respiratory illness are often a physical manifestation of the body’s natural defense system reacting to a pathogen. Acute bronchitis is most commonly caused by viral infections, and the resulting systemic immune response can lead to generalized urticaria. The body recognizes the invading virus or bacteria and releases inflammatory mediators, including histamine, throughout the bloodstream to fight the infection.
Histamine release causes small blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface to leak fluid, resulting in the characteristic swelling and redness of hives. This reaction is a byproduct of full-body immune activation, not a sign that the infection has spread to the skin. Hives caused by infection are often temporary and resolve once the underlying respiratory illness is successfully managed.
The Role of Medication Reactions
A frequent and direct cause of hives is an allergic reaction to medications prescribed or purchased to treat the illness. Respiratory infections, especially if a secondary bacterial infection develops, often require antibiotics, which are common culprits for drug-induced hives. The immune system may mistakenly identify a drug component as a foreign invader, initiating a Type I hypersensitivity response.
Antibiotics in the penicillin and sulfonamide classes are particularly known for triggering these allergic skin responses. The reaction can be immediate, occurring within minutes to hours of taking the drug, or delayed, appearing days or weeks after treatment begins. Over-the-counter medications used for symptom relief, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin, can also cause hives.
In an allergic response, the body generates Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies specific to the drug. These antibodies bind to mast cells and prompt the release of histamine. Hives caused by a drug reaction can range from mild, localized patches to a widespread rash. Identifying the responsible medication and halting its use is the primary step in resolving this type of urticaria.
Recognizing Severe Reactions and When to Seek Medical Attention
While mild hives are bothersome but not dangerous, their presence during a respiratory illness requires careful monitoring for signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). This life-threatening condition requires immediate medical intervention. Warning signs that a reaction is becoming severe include swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, a condition called angioedema.
Other alarming symptoms include difficulty breathing, wheezing, or a sensation of the throat tightening, as these indicate airway compromise. A rapid, weak pulse, dizziness, or feeling faint also indicate a severe, systemic reaction. If symptoms of airway compromise or systemic collapse occur, the person should seek emergency medical care immediately.