Urticaria is a common skin condition that affects about one in five people at some point in their lives. It causes intensely itchy, raised patches on the skin known as weals or hives. These patches may be round or ring-shaped and can merge into larger areas. They often appear after scratching and can affect any part of the body.

Hives occur when histamine and other chemical mediators are released into the bloodstream by mast cells. This release causes fluid to leak from tiny capillaries in the skin, creating the swollen, itchy welts. While the weals typically disappear within 24 hours, the underlying condition may take longer to resolve.

Urticaria is frequently accompanied by swelling beneath the skin called angioedema. This usually appears on softer areas, such as the lips, eyelids, or inside the mouth. Unlike hives, these swellings often last longer and tend to be more painful rather than itchy.

If angioedema occurs without any hives, it may indicate a hereditary form known as hereditary angioedema. This condition is not related to typical urticaria and requires specific diagnostic tests and a different treatment approach.

Types of Urticaria

Urticaria can be classified based on how long it lasts or what triggers it:

• Acute Urticaria:
  The most common type, usually triggered by a known cause. It typically lasts up to six weeks.

• Chronic Urticaria:
  When symptoms persist for more than six weeks and the cause is often unclear.

• Physical Urticaria:
  Triggered by external physical factors such as scratching, cold temperatures, sustained pressure on the skin, sunlight, or heat that increases body temperature.

Common Causes

Frequent triggers include allergic reactions, viral or bacterial infections, and emotional stress. People with known allergies are more prone to developing hives. They may also occur after taking certain medications or coming into contact with unexpected allergens such as foods, pollen, or environmental substances. When your body is already stressed by illness or another medical condition, the skin can become more reactive, increasing the likelihood of a flare-up.

Treatment

Most hives resolve on their own within 24 hours and may not require treatment. However, if symptoms persist or are severe, a doctor may prescribe antihistamines, steroid tablets, or menthol-based creams to help reduce itching and discomfort.

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