Understanding Urticaria: What It Is and How to Find Relief
Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin condition that shows up as raised, red, or skin-colored welts. These patches can be small or large and are usually very itchy. Welts might form in clusters on the face, arms, legs, or trunk, and often disappear on their own in less than a day—even though new ones can pop up in different areas. While most episodes are short-lived and not dangerous, the condition can sometimes come back, making daily life uncomfortable for those who experience it
Why Do Hives Appear?
The main reason for urticaria is a release of chemicals, especially histamine, from mast cells in the skin. This makes tiny blood vessels leak fluid, creating the swollen, itchy welts that are the hallmark of the condition.
Common signs include:
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Hives: Raised spots or plaques, sometimes pale in the center and red around the edges
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Intense itching that can be mild or severe
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Short duration: Most welts fade within 24 hours without leaving a trace
Some people also experience angioedema—swelling in deeper layers of skin, especially around the eyes, lips, hands, or feet. This can cause discomfort or tightness. If the swelling affects the throat or tongue, breathing may become difficult and emergency care is needed.
Different Types of Urticaria
Urticaria is classified by how long it lasts:
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Acute urticaria: Outbreaks last less than six weeks, often with a clear cause such as a specific food or medication.
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Chronic urticaria: Outbreaks persist for more than six weeks, and in many cases, the exact trigger is unknown.
There are also physical or “inducible” types:
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Dermographism: Hives from scratching or rubbing
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Cold urticaria: Triggered by cold temperatures
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Pressure urticaria: Caused by tight clothing or prolonged pressure
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Solar urticaria: Brought on by sunlight
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Cholinergic urticaria: Linked to an increase in body temperature, like during exercise or a hot shower
What Causes Urticaria?
The most common triggers for hives include:
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Allergic reactions: Foods (shellfish, nuts, eggs, milk), medications (antibiotics, aspirin), insect stings, latex
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Infections: Viral or bacterial, such as the common cold or strep throat
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Physical triggers: Pressure, temperature changes, sunlight
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Emotional stress: Not a direct cause, but can make outbreaks worse
In chronic urticaria, the cause is often unknown. For many people, it’s linked to autoimmune activity, where the body’s immune system targets its own skin cells.
How Is Urticaria Diagnosed and Treated?
Diagnosis is mostly based on what your skin looks like and your recent medical history. Your doctor might ask about your lifestyle, recent exposures, and other symptoms to identify possible triggers.
Treatment usually focuses on relief:
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Antihistamines: The first and most effective option, available both over-the-counter and by prescription
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Corticosteroids: Used for short periods in severe cases to calm inflammation
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Avoiding triggers: If you know what sets off your hives, do your best to steer clear
If you keep having hives, especially with swelling in your throat or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention right away. Managing urticaria often comes down to understanding your body, avoiding known triggers, and finding the right treatment to stay comfortable and confident.
