Hives is medically better known as Urticaria, these are pink or red bumps or raised patches of skin. At times they have a pale center. Hives generally cause itch but they can sting and burn. These can occur on anyplace on the body and vary in shape and size. The size of hives can vary from small to large size. They might also resemble like rings or groups of rings joined together. Ten to twenty five percent of the people suffer from hives at least once in their lives. Hives are harmless but at times there might be a sign of serious reaction. If hives occurs in the throat, it can obstruct the airway and makes breathing difficult. Hives might be widespread and disturbing to look at but in a number of cases it has been found out that it does not result in life threatening complications. Any person of any race or any age in any season of the year can get affected by hives.

Cause

Hives are caused by histamine and other compounds which are released from cells known as mast cells which are normal part of skin. It causes the fluid to leak from the local blood vessels which leads to swelling in the skin. Hives might be caused due to infections like mononucleosis or illness such as lupus, leukemia or autoimmune diseases, extreme cold or sun exposure, emotional stress or excessive perspiration. A number of substances can cause hives like sea food, animal dander, pollen, insect bites and medications. Although some cases are caused due to allergies but a large number of cases are not caused because of an allergy.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Hives include swelling of the surface of the skin into red or skin colored welts and itching. The welts might get enlarged, spread and join together to form larger areas of the flat raised skin.   They might change shape, disappear and reappear within minutes or hours. The welt might appear suddenly and get resolved quickly. When the center of the red welt is pressed, it turns white.

Treatment

If hives are mild then no treatment is required as they tend to disappear on their own. In order to reduce swelling and itching, one must apply cool compresses to the welts as it can reduce swelling and pain. Tight fitting clothes should not be worn around the affected area. One must apply calamine lotion and take antihistamines. In case the reaction is severe and if swelling involves the throat, then one might require an emergency shot of steroids or epinephrine.

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	Urticaria Pigmentosa It is an uncommon rash which usually affects the arms, necks, legs and trunks of children and young adults. The rashes are made up of reddish brown spots that turn into hives when they are rubbed or scratched. At times the spots blister. This disease is commonly found in children but it can also ...Read more