Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition that affects about one in five people at some point in their lives. It is characterized by intensely itchy, raised patches called weals, which can be round or ring-shaped and may merge together.
These welts often develop after scratching and can appear anywhere on the body.
Urticaria occurs when mast cells in the body release histamine and other chemical mediators into the bloodstream. This triggers fluid to leak from the skin’s capillaries, resulting in the characteristic raised welts.
Although the individual hives typically fade within 24 hours, the overall condition of urticaria can take much longer to resolve.
Urticaria is frequently accompanied by swelling beneath the skin called angioedema, which usually affects softer areas such as the lips, eyelids, or inside the mouth.
Unlike the hives, these swellings tend to last longer and are often more painful than itchy.
When angioedema occurs without the presence of hives, it may indicate a hereditary condition known as hereditary angioedema. In such cases, the swelling is unrelated to urticaria and needs a different approach to treatment, as well as specific blood tests for accurate diagnosis.
Urticaria is classified based on its duration:
- Acute Urticaria — the most common form, where the cause of outbreaks is usually identified. This type typically lasts up to six weeks.
- Chronic Urticaria — occurs when outbreaks persist for more than six weeks, and the cause is often unknown.
- Physical Urticaria is triggered by physical factors such as scratching, exposure to cold, sustained pressure on the skin, sunlight, or an increase in body temperature.
Other common causes include allergic reactions, infections (both bacterial and viral), and emotional stress.
Most hives typically resolve on their own within 24 hours and don’t require treatment. However, if the condition continues, your doctor may recommend antihistamines, steroid tablets, or menthol cream to help ease the itching.
