Hives, also known as urticaria or nettle rash, are itchy, raised welts or bumps that appear on the skin. They're a type of swelling on the skin's surface resulting from an allergic reaction or other triggers. These welts can vary in size, from small spots to large patches, and may be red, pink, white, or flesh-colored.
Understanding Hives
- Cause: Hives occur when your body releases histamine and other chemicals into the skin. This release is triggered by various factors, including allergens (like food or medications), infections, stress, or even physical stimuli. [Source: NHS, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic]
- Appearance: They manifest as raised, often itchy, red bumps (welts) on the skin's surface. [Source: Cleveland Clinic, Penn Medicine, Healthline] The color can vary.
- Symptoms: The primary symptom is the appearance of the welts themselves, accompanied by intense itching. In severe cases, hives can be accompanied by difficulty breathing. [Source: WebMD]
- Triggers: Many substances or situations can trigger hives, including:
- Foods (e.g., nuts, shellfish)
- Medications
- Infections
- Stress
- Physical stimuli (e.g., heat, cold, pressure) [Source: NHS, Mayo Clinic, ACAAI]
Types of Hives
While not explicitly detailed in the references, it's important to note that hives can be acute (lasting less than six weeks) or chronic (lasting longer than six weeks).
Seeking Medical Attention
If you experience hives accompanied by difficulty breathing or other severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. [Source: WebMD]
