Hives

General Information on Hives

Hives, also known as Urticaria, is a skin reaction characterized by pale, slightly elevated swellings called wheals. The wheals are surrounded by an area of redness with clearly defined borders. Angioedema is swelling of the larger areas of tissue under the skin, and sometimes affects the face and throat. Hives and angioedema may occur together, and can be severe. Common triggers are insect bites or stings, medications, and certain foods, particularly tree nuts, fruits, shellfish, soy and eggs. Hives can also occur following a viral infection.

Symptoms of Hives

One of the first symptoms of hives is itching. After the itching, the wheals suddenly develop. The wheals usually remain small (less than 1/2 inch across). Larger wheals (up to 4 inches across) may appear as rings of redness with a pale center. Normally crops of hives will appear and then reappear. One spot may remain for hours and eventually disappear, and later another may reappear elsewhere. Angioedema may affect the hands, feet, lips, eyes, and genitals. Membranes lining the throat, mouth, and airways may swell making it difficult to breathe. If hives and or angioedema recur without an obvious cause, call your doctor to schedule an examination.

Symptoms may include:

Itching
Wheals (raised rings of redness with a pale center)
Swelling of hands, feet, lips, and eyes
Wheezing
Difficulty breathing or swallowing

Treatments For Hives

If hives appear suddenly, they will usually subside without any treatment within a 24 hour period. When there is no obvious cause, the person should stop taking all nonessential medications until the hives subside. For hives and mild angioedema taking an over the counter antihistamine may help to relieve the itching and swelling. When all other treatments are ineffective, your doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are prescribed only for severe symptoms and are given for as short a time as possible due to their potentially serious side effects.

Personal Experience

Hives - personal experiences