Hives

Hives are also known as urticaria. It is a benign skin reaction that almost everyone will experience at some point in their life.

Hives quickly develop an itchy rash that starts with red spots that then turn into thickened, pale spots. These can merge into large placards. The rash can appear on the arms and legs, but also on the trunk and face, sometimes even on the eyelids, tongue or mouth. Then one speaks of angioedema. The cause of hives is usually allergic, but large temperature fluctuations can also trigger hives.

The rash normally disappears after a few hours and then reappears somewhere else. Angioedema may last longer. Hives can occur at any age and is not contagious. Since hives are not dangerous, one can simply wait until the attack is over. If necessary, you can take something against the itching. If you have angioedema, it is best to go to the doctor.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024