Hives

What are hives?

Hives (also called urticaria) are raised, itchy welts that appear on the skin as part of an allergic or immune system reaction. They can vary in size and shape and may appear anywhere on the body. Hives often come on suddenly and can move or change location over time.

What do hives look like?

Hives typically appear as:

• Raised bumps or welts
• Red or skin-colored patches
• Areas that itch intensely
• Spots that may change size, shape, or location

They can last for minutes to hours and may reappear in different areas.

What causes hives?

Hives are triggered when your body releases histamine and other chemicals into the skin.

Common triggers include:

• Foods (such as nuts, shellfish, eggs)
• Medications
• Insect stings or bites
• Infections
• Environmental allergens (pollen, pet dander)
• Heat, cold, pressure, or exercise

In many cases, the exact cause may not be immediately clear.

What is the difference between acute and chronic hives?

• Acute hives:
• Last less than 6 weeks
• Often caused by an allergic reaction
• Chronic hives:
• Last more than 6 weeks
• May not have a clearly identifiable cause

Chronic hives may require more in-depth evaluation and management.

Are hives dangerous?

Most cases of hives are not dangerous and resolve on their own. However, hives can sometimes be part of a more serious allergic reaction.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing
• Dizziness or fainting

These may be signs of anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency.

What is angioedema?

Angioedema is swelling that occurs deeper in the skin, often affecting:

• Lips
• Eyelids
• Face
• Throat

It can occur along with hives and may require prompt medical attention, especially if it affects breathing.

How are hives diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically based on:

• A review of your symptoms and history
• Identification of possible triggers
• Physical examination

If hives are persistent or recurring, your provider may recommend allergy testing or additional evaluation.

What are the treatment options for hives?

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and identifying triggers.

Common treatments include:

• Antihistamines

• • First-line treatment to reduce itching and swelling

• Avoiding triggers

• • Identifying and eliminating known causes

• Additional medications

• • For more severe or chronic cases

• Emergency treatment

• • Epinephrine for severe allergic reactions

Your treatment plan will depend on the frequency and severity of your symptoms.

Are hives common in Newport News and Hampton Roads?

Yes. Hives can be triggered by:

• Seasonal allergens like pollen
• Heat and humidity
• Environmental exposures

These factors are common in the Hampton Roads region and may contribute to flare-ups.

When should I see an ENT or allergy specialist?

You should consider evaluation if:

• Hives occur frequently or without a clear cause
• Symptoms last longer than a few days
• You have swelling (angioedema)
• Over-the-counter medications are not helping

A specialist can help identify triggers and create a long-term management plan.

Can hives affect daily life?

Yes. Hives can interfere with:

• Sleep (due to itching)
• Work or daily activities
• Comfort and confidence

With proper treatment, most patients can manage symptoms effectively.

Is there a cure for hives?

There is no single cure, but hives can often be well controlled. Many cases resolve over time, especially with proper identification and management of triggers.

Ready to Find Relief in Newport News or Hampton Roads?

If you’re dealing with itchy, recurring skin reactions or unexplained swelling, it’s important to get answers.

Schedule an evaluation today to identify triggers and create a personalized plan to keep your symptoms under control.

References

• Mayo Clinic. Hives (Urticaria): Symptoms & Causes
• American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI). Hives Overview
• Cleveland Clinic. Urticaria (Hives)
• National Institutes of Health (NIH). Chronic Urticaria