Hives

What Are Hives (Urticaria)?

Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, red, itchy welts or bumps on the skin. They can occur because of an allergic reaction or be triggered by stress, heat, or certain foods. Hives can appear anywhere on the body and vary in size and shape.


Chronic hives can last longer than most cases, but with the right diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, you can manage flare-ups effectively. Schedule your appointment today to get expert care.

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Symptoms of Hives

Hives appear as raised bumps on the skin, varying in size and color, and can occur anywhere on the body. Distinct symptoms of hives include:


  • Appearance: Hives are typically raised and may have a pale center. They can appear as tiny spots, blotches, or large, connected bumps.
  • Itchiness:  Hives are often intensely itchy, though some may burn or sting.
  • Movement:  Hives can change shape and location rapidly, disappearing and reappearing in different areas within hours.
  • Duration: Acute hives typically last a few hours to a few days and resolve within 6 weeks in most cases.
  • Other symptoms: Hives do not typically cause dryness, peeling, or flaking like other rashes.


Hives can sometimes signal a serious allergic reaction, especially when they occur with swelling of the mouth or airway, or cause difficulty breathing. In more severe instances, there may be significant swelling, known as angioedema, around the eyes and lips.


Note: Although hives may resemble eczema, they have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Learn more about eczema symptoms and treatment here.

Related Condition: Angioedema (Swelling)

Hives and swelling often go hand in hand, but they’re distinct conditions. Hives can be quite bothersome, while angioedema may pose serious risks if it leads to breathing difficulties due to severe swelling around the throat, lips, or tongue.


  • Symptoms : Deep swelling under the skin, typically affecting the eyes, lips, hands, feet, or genitals.
  • Duration : Usually resolves within 24 hours.
  • Serious Risk : Severe angioedema can lead to breathing problems if it affects the throat or tongue.


Understanding the differences between hives and swelling can help you find the right treatment and manage your symptoms effectively.

Understanding the Causes of Hives and Related Conditions

Discover the factors contributing to hives and similar conditions and when to seek medical advice.


  • Hives : Often triggered by foods (nuts, shellfish, dairy products, etc.), medications, insect stings, or physical factors like heat, cold, or prolonged pressure on the skin. Viral infections can also play a role. Chronic hives may have no identifiable trigger.


  • Swelling : Caused by certain foods, medications, or inherited forms of angioedema. ACE inhibitors for high blood pressure are another potential cause.

Hives Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Since hives can be triggered by a wide range of substances or situations, specialists rely on a variety of tests to identify triggers and tailor the most effective treatment plan.


How Do Specialists Diagnose Hives?


Hive specialists diagnose and treat urticaria using a systematic approach that includes clinical evaluation, assessment of medical history, and, if necessary, additional tests. Here's an overview of how it works:


  • Medical History :  The doctor will ask about your symptoms, triggers (e.g., certain foods, medications, stress), and any recent illnesses or allergies. They may inquire about your lifestyle, environment, and family history of hives or other allergic conditions.


  • Physical Examination :  A visual check for characteristic raised, red welts, or bumps on the skin is often enough to diagnose hives. The doctor will also assess the size, shape, and location of the hives.


  • Allergy Testing : If an allergy is suspected as the cause, skin prick tests or blood tests may be done to identify specific allergens (like pollen, pet dander, or certain foods). However, non-allergic factors can also trigger hives, so not all cases require allergy testing.


  • Thyroid Function Testing :  If hives persist for more than six weeks (chronic hives), the doctor may order thyroid function tests, such as Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and Thyroxine (T4), to check for underlying thyroid disorders. Additional blood tests may be done to rule out autoimmune conditions or infections.


What Treatment Options Are Available for Hives?


We understand that dealing with hives can be challenging, but effective treatment methods are available to help you manage flare-ups and keep them under control.


  • Antihistamines : These medications help block the release of histamine, which causes itching and swelling.


  • Steroids : For severe or persistent cases, oral corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and other symptoms.


  • Biologic Treatments : If hives are chronic and don’t respond to antihistamines, doctors might recommend medications like omalizumab (Xolair), an injectable biologic therapy that targets immune system cells that cause hives.


  • Epinephrine : If hives are part of a more severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), an epinephrine injection may be administered to quickly reverse symptoms and prevent further complications.


  • Trigger Avoidance : To prevent flare-ups, specialists may help you identify and avoid triggers, such as certain foods, environmental factors, or stress.


  • Lifestyle Modifications : In some cases, lifestyle modifications, such as using mild soaps, avoiding tight clothing, or staying cool (since heat can trigger hives), can help manage the condition.

Hives FAQs

  • Are there any home remedies that help with hives?

    Yes! The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) suggests a few simple home remedies to support your hives treatment. You can place a cool compress on the itchy areas and take a warm bath with colloidal oatmeal. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free soaps and skin products, and wear loose, comfortable cotton clothing to help avoid irritation.

  • Can stress really cause hives?

    Yes. Stress is one of the most common hives causes. Even if you’re not allergic to anything, emotional stress can trigger the release of chemicals like histamine, leading to itchy welts and flare-ups.

  • Are hives contagious?

    No, hives are not contagious. Hives causes are rooted in how your own immune system reacts, so you can’t catch them from or give them to someone else.

  • Can hives be a sign of something more serious?

    Yes, but it is less common. Chronic hives can sometimes stem from more serious autoimmune conditions or thyroid disorders. That’s why our specialist may order additional tests if your hives last more than six weeks, allowing for informed and effective adjustments to your hives treatment plan.

Find Relief for Hives

Take the first step toward managing your hives and improving your life. Schedule a consultation at Premier Allergy of TX  now. Our experienced specialists focus on both hives and angioedema, offering individualized care for flare-ups and sustained relief.

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