Hives
Hives (urticaria) is a skin reaction that causes itchy, swollen welts on the skin. The welts can vary in size and shape, and they can move around the body. Hives are very common and affect up to 20 percent of the population at some point in their lives. The condition is usually harmless but can be very bothersome.
Hives can be acute (lasting less than six weeks) or chronic (lasting more than six weeks). Acute hives are often caused by allergic reactions, infections, or medications, while chronic hives often have an unknown cause.
Symptoms
- Itchy, swollen welts (wheals) on the skin
- Redness around the welts
- Welts that can grow, change shape, and move
- Swelling in the face, lips, or eyelids (angioedema)
- Symptoms come and go, often within hours
- Burning or stinging sensation in the skin
When should you contact a doctor?
- Hives that last more than a few days
- Swelling in the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing along with hives (acute allergic reaction - call 113)
- Repeated episodes of hives
- Symptoms affect sleep or daily life
- You suspect that medications are triggering the reaction
Treatment
Antihistamines are the first choice for treating hives and usually provide good relief. In severe cases, the doctor may increase the dose or add other medications. It is important to try to identify triggering causes. A doctor at Eyr can assess the rash via video, prescribe antihistamines, and plan further investigation for chronic hives.
