If you are dealing with hives, our medical dermatology specialists at Regency can help. We will assess the severity of your condition to accurately determine the best course of treatment for you.
What are hives?
Hives (urticaria) is a type of allergic reaction characterized by itchy inflammation and redness of the skin, as well as superficial, localized swelling. Hives can affect the entire body or only have partial involvement. This condition presents differently different from person to person, ranging from tiny dots to large welts.
What causes hives?
Sometimes hives occur as the result of an allergic reaction, but for some people hives can appear without warning, regenerating and staying for weeks or months on end. They may change shape, move around, disappear completely, and reappear over short periods of time.
Common triggers of hives
- Sun exposure and/or temperature changes
- Food and/or alcohol
- Viral infection or recent illness
- Insect bites
- Emotional stress
- Medications
- Pregnancy
- Exposure to allergens (pet dander, dust, mold, chemicals)
Treatment
Treatment typically consists of trigger avoidance and oral antihistamine medications to eliminate the rash and its associated symptoms.