Hives: Overview
Hives are raised, red, itchy patches of skin. They usually have red borders and pale centers. Hives range in size from ¼ inch to 3 inches or more across. They may seem to move from place to place on the skin. Several hives may form a large area of raised, red skin.
Hives are an allergic reaction of the skin. They can happen because of a reaction to medicine, food, or infection. Other things can also cause hives. But sometimes the cause is unknown.
You cannot spread hives to other people.
Hives
Hives are an allergic reaction of the skin that may last a few minutes or can persist for a few days. They appear as raised, red, itchy bumps of different shapes and sizes, with defined red margins and pale centers.
Hives may appear and then disappear at random and seem to move from place to place on the skin.
Hives may appear as a reaction to a medication, food, or infection. A single area of swelling often occurs after an insect bite at the site of the bite. Other possible causes include skin contact with animal saliva, plants, or latex. Often a cause cannot be found.
Hives are often minor, but they can also be the first sign of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) that requires emergency care.
How can you care for yourself when you have hives?
- Many times hives are caused by something you can't avoid, like a virus or bacteria, or you may not know the cause. But if you think they were caused by a certain food or medicine, avoid it.
- Stay away from strong soaps, detergents, and chemicals. These can make itching worse.
- Put a cool, wet towel on the area to relieve itching.
- Take a nondrowsy antihistamine, such as loratadine (Claritin), to help stop the hives and calm the itching. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
Hives
Most hives (urticaria) are an allergic skin reaction that appears as raised, red, itchy bumps of different shapes and sizes. Patches of hives may combine to form raised, reddened skin over large areas of the body. Hives are often minor, but they can also be the first sign of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) that requires emergency care.
Hives in children: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- Your child has symptoms of a severe allergic reaction. These may include:
- Sudden raised, red areas (hives) all over their body.
- Swelling of the throat, mouth, lips, or tongue.
- Trouble breathing.
- Passing out (losing consciousness). Or your child may feel very lightheaded or suddenly feel weak, confused, or restless.
- Severe belly pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your child has symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as:
- A rash or hives (raised, red areas on the skin).
- Itching.
- Swelling.
- Mild belly pain or nausea.
- Your child gets hives after starting a new medicine.
- Hives have not gone away after 24 hours.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- Your child does not get better as expected.
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