Hives (Urticaria)

Hives are red, raised, itchy bumps (welts) on your skin, ranging from small spots to large blotches that appear suddenly anywhere on your body, typically caused by a skin reaction.

What is it?

Urticaria, often known as hives, is a skin response that results in itchy welts or bumps that can manifest anywhere on the body. They usually emerge abruptly on the skin as elevated, red, and itchy patches that may seem swollen. They can be triggered by various factors, including food, medication, stress, or something you've come into contact with.

Hives can be categorized into two types: acute hives, which disappear quickly, typically lasting from a few minutes to a few hours, and chronic hives, which are persistent, appearing for six weeks or more. Although hives are generally harmless and temporary, chronic hives can impact your daily life.

How is it treated?

Usually, hives will disappear naturally within several days. Techniques like taking a refreshing bath or shower, using a chilled compress, wearing non-restrictive attire, and utilizing over-the-counter antihistamines can effectively manage symptoms. Nevertheless, it's beneficial to consult a board-certified dermatologist if the hives persist for more than a few days, spread over a broad part of your body, or are triggered by an allergic reaction.

If you're seeking prompt treatment solutions, or suffer from chronic hives and are looking to improve your quality of life, schedule an appointment today with one of our board-certified dermatologists at DGC in Dublin, Columbus, Canal Winchester, Urbana, Circleville, Washington Courthouse, Grove City and Marysville, Ohio. They will collaborate with you to identify the source of your hives and design a tailored treatment strategy to effectively combat them. Possible treatments may include antihistamines, allergy shots, topical anti-itch creams, or steroids.

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