Hives are one of those conditions that can happen for a number of reasons. If you have never had them, you may be wondering when or why someone may start showing hives. It could even be confused for some other skin ailment or concern. Our team at Integrity Urgent Care can easily diagnose hives on our patients and help you understand what the cause may be, working to get you back on track.

Symptoms

Hives are a skin condition when bumps, raised patches, or both appear on the skin. They may appear red or pale, they are often itchy, and could feel swollen, especially depending on where they are on the body. Your skin may feel warm, or you may have a burning sensation. They may appear on a small portion of the body or be spread over most of the skin. Most people, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, have hives in “one or more of these areas: abdomen, back, buttocks, chest, upper arms, upper legs.”

Treatment

Hives appear as a natural defense mechanism from the body. Histamine and other chemicals will release from your body when the immune system detects a threat, like a mosquito bite or bad food, to protect you from becoming seriously ill. Other times, hives will come when there is no threat, like with an allergic reaction. For non-allergic reaction, mild cases of hives, the best treatment is to wait it out. They should go away in a few days. An over-the-counter antihistamine can help as can an anti-itch cream. For more serious, long lasting, or frequent outbreaks, you may want to visit a dermatologist to consider additional medication.

Prevention