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Hives Defined

Hives (urticaria), involve red, itchy, swollen areas of the skin that range in size and appear anywhere on the body. They can appear suddenly, and may be the result of an allergic reaction.

Some people have chronic urticaria that occurs almost daily for months or, in some cases, years. Treatment with oral antihistamines is frequently successful, but in severe cases, other medications may be needed.

In addition to allergic reactions to medications, foods or other substances, hives may be triggered by viral infections, temperature extremes, water, sun and physical exercise.

Learn more about skin allergy symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and management.

Learn more about hives.

Take our Skin Allergy Quiz

If your symptoms are making you miserable, an allergist / immunologist, often referred to as an allergist, can help. An allergist has advanced training and experience to determine what is causing your symptoms and develop a treatment plan to help you feel better and live better.

The AAAAI's Find an Allergist / Immunologist service is a trusted resource to help you find a specialist close to home.