Hives (urticaria) are red, raised welts on the skin that are often intensely itchy. They form when immune cells release histamine, which causes localized swelling and irritation. Hives can appear suddenly, change in size, shift from one area of the body to another, and then fade—sometimes within hours.
The duration of hives varies. In some cases, they resolve quickly; in others, they persist for weeks or longer. They are generally divided into two categories:
- Acute hives: Last less than 6 weeks and are often triggered by allergies, infections, or environmental exposures.
- Chronic hives: Continue for more than 6 weeks, may recur over months or years, and often have no identifiable cause.
Some individuals also develop angioedema, a deeper swelling that commonly affects the lips, eyelids, hands, or throat. While most cases are mild, angioedema involving the airway may require urgent medical attention.
Treatment focuses on reducing itching and swelling, identifying possible triggers, and minimizing flare-ups. In persistent cases, medical therapy can help bring relief and improve quality of life.
Signs & Symptoms
- Raised welts that may be red or skin-colored, ranging from small pinpoint spots to large patches. Some hives may merge together.
- It can appear anywhere on the body. Angioedema involves deeper swelling, often affecting the eyelids, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Hives can cause severe itching and may also produce a burning or stinging sensation. In contrast, angioedema is typically marked by deeper swelling that feels tight, uncomfortable, or even painful.
- Hives can appear and disappear quickly, sometimes lasting only a few hours, while chronic hives may persist for weeks or months and recur without warning.
Causes & Risk Factors
Hives can have many potential triggers, including:
- Allergens: Certain foods, medications, insect stings, or latex
- Infections: Viral or bacterial illnesses
- Environmental Factors: Heat, cold, sun exposure, or pressure on the skin
- Stress & Hormones: Emotional stress or hormonal fluctuations
- Chronic or Unknown Causes: In many cases of chronic hives, no clear trigger is found
Hives are more common in adults (especially women) and in individuals with a history of allergies or autoimmune conditions.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on whether hives are acute or chronic, as well as their severity. Treatments for hives may include:
- Oral Prescriptions – such as antihistamines to reduce itching and inflammation
- Topical Prescriptions – creams or ointments to ease irritation
- Advanced Therapies – including corticosteroids, biologics (e.g., omalizumab), or immune-modulating medications for severe or chronic cases
Avoiding known triggers, when possible, is also a critical part of management.