Hives are itchy, raised welts that appear suddenly and often fade within hours, but new ones may appear. Short-term hives are often caused by an allergy or infection. When they recur for more than six weeks it is called chronic urticaria, and a cause is often not found.
What you might notice
- Raised red or pale welts of varied size
- Intense itching
- Swelling of lips or eyelids in some people (angioedema)
Common triggers
- Foods such as seafood or nuts, and some medicines
- Infections and insect bites
- Heat, cold, pressure, sweating and exercise
- Stress
Medical care
Non-drowsy antihistamines are the usual first treatment. A doctor may arrange allergy tests if a trigger is suspected.
Acupuncture and herbal medicine
At The Tole, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are offered as a complement to medical care. Evidence for them in chronic hives is limited. We do not promise a particular result, and we avoid herbs that might themselves trigger allergy.
Acupuncture and herbal treatment at The Tole
At The Tole, treatment combines neuro acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, in the way developed by our founder, Dato’ Leong Hong Tole. Master Tole is the founder of TheTole neuro acupuncture and TheTole neuro brain powder, and the treatment is based on his own technique and on the family’s ancestral formulas. His team reviews your history and any medical reports, then recommends acupuncture, herbal preparations, or both. Herbs are prepared for the individual, using natural herbs.
Treatment at The Tole is used together with your medical treatment, to support your recovery. We never ask anyone to stop the care their doctor has advised.
You can walk in during opening hours without an appointment. If you live far away, email your medical reports and we will advise you on herbs and, where suitable, an intensive course of acupuncture. Herbs can be couriered to any country, usually in 3 to 5 working days. See herbs by post.
Please consult before you buy. Before you purchase any TheTole herbs, including TheTole neuro brain powder, we recommend consulting Dato’ Tole or his team first, so that you receive the correct prescription for your condition.
What to expect at your first visit
- Walk in or message us. No appointment is needed during opening hours. You can also send a WhatsApp message first.
- Tell us your story. The Master’s team asks about your symptoms and history, and looks at any reports you bring.
- Agree a plan. They recommend neuro acupuncture, herbal medicine, or both, and explain what to expect.
- Follow up. If you take herbs, we ask you to update us on your progress by email.
Why people choose The Tole
- Founded by Dato’ Master Leong Hong Tole, creator of TheTole neuro acupuncture and TheTole neuro brain powder
- A family practice, now in its fourth generation, in Kuala Lumpur since 1992
- Officially opened by the Health Minister on 31 January 1993
- Herbal formulas prepared for each patient, using natural herbs
- Walk-ins welcome, and herbs couriered to any country
Common questions
How long do hives last?
Single welts fade within a day. Chronic hives can come and go for months to years, and usually settle in time.
Could herbs cause an allergic reaction?
Any substance can. Please tell us about your allergies and reactions.
Do I need allergy testing?
Only if a trigger is suspected. Most chronic hives have no identifiable cause.
See a doctor first if
- Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, or trouble breathing. Call 999 now
- Hives with dizziness, vomiting or fainting after a food, sting or medicine
- Hives lasting more than six weeks
- Painful welts that leave bruises
Ready to talk to us?
Message us on WhatsApp, or walk in during opening hours. No appointment is needed.
Traditional Chinese medicine is offered as a complement to, not a replacement for, medical care. Used together with your doctor’s treatment, it aims to support your recovery. Responses vary from person to person, and no particular result can be promised. Please keep your doctor informed about any herbs or treatments you use.