🌟 Hives (Urticaria)
Hives, or urticaria, are raised, itchy, red or skin-colored welts on the skin’s surface caused by an allergic reaction or other triggers. They can vary in size and shape and often appear suddenly.
🔍 Causes
- Allergic reactions to foods, medications, insect bites
- Infections (viral, bacterial)
- Physical triggers (heat, cold, pressure)
- Stress or anxiety
- Autoimmune conditions
- Idiopathic (unknown cause)
⚠️ Symptoms
- Raised, itchy welts (wheals)
- Red or skin-colored patches
- Can appear anywhere on the body
- Sometimes swelling of deeper layers (angioedema)
- Usually last less than 24 hours but can recur
🛠️ Treatment
- Avoid known triggers
- Antihistamines to reduce itching and swelling
- Corticosteroids for severe or persistent cases
- Epinephrine in emergency cases (anaphylaxis)
🛡️ When to Seek Medical Help
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Rapid spread of hives with severe symptoms