Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition marked by red, raised, itchy welts that appear suddenly on the skin.

These welts can vary in size, merge into clusters, and often disappear within 24 hours—though new ones may appear elsewhere. In some cases, the condition can persist or recur, affecting a person’s quality of life.

Urticaria occurs when mast cells release histamine, causing fluid to leak from small blood vessels and create the characteristic swelling.

Common Symptoms:
Raised welts (hives), red or skin-colored

Intense itching (pruritus)

Welts that fade quickly but may reappear elsewhere

Angioedema (deeper swelling), sometimes affecting lips, eyelids, or throat—potentially life-threatening if it impairs breathing

Types:
Acute Urticaria: Lasts less than 6 weeks, often linked to a known cause.

Chronic Urticaria: Persists longer than 6 weeks, often with no identifiable cause.

Inducible Urticaria: Triggered by physical factors like pressure, cold, heat, sun, or scratching.

Common Triggers:
Allergens: foods (nuts, shellfish), medications, insect bites

Infections: viral or bacterial

Physical stimuli: cold, heat, pressure

Emotional stress: may worsen symptoms

Autoimmune causes: especially in chronic cases

Treatment:
Antihistamines: Main treatment to relieve itching and reduce hives

Corticosteroids: For severe or persistent cases

Avoid known triggers whenever possible

Diagnosis is clinical, based on history and symptoms. With proper care, symptoms can often be managed effectively