Hives (Urticaria)

Hives, which appears as a skin rash, affects the individual by presenting with itching. It occurs as a result of an allergic reaction to consumed foods or to something that comes into contact with the skin. Urticaria may resolve quickly, or it may persist for long periods. Its treatment includes antihistamines or steroids.

What is Hives (Urticaria)?

Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin condition that may occur suddenly due to stress, medications, or foods, causing itchy, red rashes on certain areas of the body. Urticaria lasting less than six weeks is classified as acute, whereas forms that persist longer are considered chronic urticaria. Symptoms vary depending on severity. The most common symptoms include red rashes, itching, and swelling. It may develop over the entire body or be limited to a specific area.

What Are the Types of Urticaria (Hives)?

Urticaria has two main types: acute and chronic. Urticaria cases lasting less than six weeks are defined as acute, while longer-lasting cases are referred to as chronic urticaria.

Acute urticaria

Urticaria lasting less than six weeks is defined as acute urticaria. If the condition persists, acute urticaria may progress to the chronic form.

Chronic urticaria

This term is used to describe urticaria attacks lasting longer than six weeks. The condition may persist intermittently for 1 to 5 years.

Physical urticaria

This term is used to describe chronic urticaria triggered by physical factors. It is most commonly associated with physical stimuli such as exposure to heat, cold, or pressure.

What Are the Symptoms of Hives?

The most common symptoms of urticaria include prominent, red, itchy, and raised swellings on the skin. These wheals may spread and merge into larger patches. Over time, their appearance may change in shape or they may disappear completely.

The symptoms of urticaria can be listed as follows:

• Intense itchin
• Red rashes on the skin
• Burning or stinging sensations of the skin
• Swellings that vary in size from small to large
• Changes in the shape of the wheals over time
• Skin-colored or discolored patches depending on skin tone

What Causes Hives?

Urticaria is usually an allergic reaction to a consumed food, beverage, or medication. It may also develop as a result of bacterial or viral infections, stress, or certain underlying diseases.

The causes of urticaria can be listed as follows:

• Allergy to food, beverages, or medications
• Thyroid disease and rheumatic disorders
• Leukemia and lymphoma
• Stress
• Bacterial, viral, and other infections
• Insect, bee, or mosquito bites
• Exposure to pressure, cold, heat, or sunlight
• Pet dander, pollen, or certain plants

How is Hives Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of urticaria is made after a specialist physician performs a skin examination. Allergy tests help identify the substances that trigger the reaction. Knowing the cause helps avoid allergens. The allergy tests used to diagnose urticaria include the following:

• Skin tests: With this test, different allergens are applied to the surface of the skin. Redness or swelling of the skin may indicate that the person is allergic to that substance.
• Blood tests: Blood tests check the antibodies present in the blood. The body produces antibodies to fight allergens. When the body produces excessive antibodies, urticaria may occur.

How is Hives Treated?

In some cases, urticaria may resolve on its own without requiring treatment. A specialist physician may recommend medications or home care methods to help the individual feel better and reduce the likelihood of recurrent urticaria.

The treatment methods for urticaria can be listed as follows:

• Allergy medications: Drugs known as antihistamines help relieve itching caused by urticaria and allow allergic reactions to resolve or become milder.
• Allergy injections: Individuals with severe allergies produce excessive amounts of IgE in the body. These injections prevent the immune system from producing IgE.
• Home-based treatments: To relieve hives, taking a cool bath or shower, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and applying cold compresses may be helpful.
• Oral steroids: Corticosteroids such as prednisone may alleviate urticaria symptoms that do not respond to antihistamines or topical steroids.

How Can Hives Be Prevented?

When urticaria becomes chronic, it may persist for many years. It can negatively affect sleep quality and, as a result, interfere with daily activities.

Some measures that can be taken to help prevent urticaria include the following:

• Avoid wearing tight clothing
• Prevent skin damage
• Stay away from known triggers
• Keep the skin clean
• Use sunscreen
• Avoid soaps, creams, and shampoos that may cause skin irritation

This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact us for professional help.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hives

How long does it take for hives to go away?

Urticaria usually resolves on its own within one to several days. However, chronic urticaria lasts longer and may take months to subside.

What do hives look like?

The most common features of urticaria are well-defined, red or skin-colored, itchy, raised swellings. These wheals may spread and merge, forming larger patches.

Which condition can urticaria indicate?

Urticaria may occur as a result of the immune response to infections. It is particularly common in children following upper respiratory tract infections.

Is urticaria contagious?

Urticaria is not contagious. The more severe the allergic reaction, the more rapidly hives may spread across the body.

What should people with urticaria avoid eating?

Individuals with urticaria are advised to avoid histamine-rich foods that may trigger allergic reactions. Foods such as milk and dairy products, hazelnuts, peanuts, and strawberries are associated with a higher allergy risk.

Does urticaria last a lifetime?

Urticaria may be short-term (acute) or chronic, lasting for weeks. In some cases, chronic urticaria may persist for many years.

Which department should be consulted for urticaria?

Since urticaria is a condition associated with allergies, patients should apply to the Department of Allergy and Immunology for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.