Urticaria, also known as hives, are swollen, often itchy welts on the skin. They can range in size from small (like a pencil tip) to large (like a plate). They can form anywhere on the body.
Urticaria is often caused by an allergic response as your body reacts to substances in the environment. Common triggers for urticaria include:
- Foods: Fruits (especially citrus), dairy, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, and shellfish
- Medicines
- Insect bites and stings
- Animals
- Substances ranging from pollen to latex to chemicals
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- Common symptoms of urticaria include:
- Itching, stinging, or burning areas of skin
- Slightly raised, pink or red swellings on the skin
- Welts that occur alone or in a group or connect over a large area
- Skin swelling that subsides or goes away within 24 hours in one area but may appear in another
The main treatment goal for urticaria is to reduce the immune response in your body to relieve symptoms and cure the condition. Sarin Skin dermatologists may recommend medications such as antihistamines, steroids, or both to treat hives.
What is urticaria?
Urticaria refers to itchy, swollen welts on the skin, commonly known as hives. They can vary in size and appear anywhere on the body.
What are the main causes of hives?
Urticaria is usually triggered by allergens such as certain foods, medicines, insect bites, animal exposure, and chemicals.
What symptoms should I look out for?
Symptoms include raised pink or red swellings, itching, burning, and welts that change location on the body.
How are hives treated?
Treatment includes antihistamines, corticosteroids, or a combination, to reduce the immune response and relieve symptoms.
Can hives spread or recur?
Yes, hives can appear in different parts of the body over time, even after disappearing from a previous spot.
