Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, itchy welts on the skin that can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. They are often caused by an allergic reaction to a substance such as food, medication, or insect bites. While hives can be uncomfortable and unsightly, they are usually not serious and will go away on their own within a few hours or days.
There are a number of things you can do to avoid hives, including:
Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, itchy welts on the skin that can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. They are caused by the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators from mast cells in the skin. Hives can be acute, lasting for less than six weeks, or chronic, lasting for more than six weeks. While hives can be uncomfortable and unsightly, they are usually not serious and will go away on their own. However, there are a number of things that can be done to alleviate the symptoms of hives.
One of the most important things to do when you have hives is to identify and avoid the triggers that cause them. Common triggers include: