Dermatology focuses on the health of the skin, hair, and nails. Learn about the diagnosis and treatment of acne, eczema, skin cancer, and cosmetic procedures.
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
Hives (urticaria) are a common, intensely itchy skin condition characterized by transient, raised, red, or skin-colored welts that result from fluid leaking from small blood vessels into the superficial skin layers. Though typically harmless and self-resolving, hives are a reactive skin response involving the release of histamine and other mediators from mast cells. They can affect anyone and present as a single episode or a recurrent, chronic pattern. It is crucial to note that hives are a non-infectious dermatologic reaction, entirely distinct from conditions like HIV/AIDS. Clinically defined by their transience (individual lesions last minutes to hours and fade without scarring), hives can appear anywhere. They are classified as acute (under six weeks, often with a clear trigger) or chronic (over six weeks, sometimes without a clear cause). Understanding hives as immune activation in the skin guides proper evaluation and treatment.
Hives are defined as transient, itchy, raised skin lesions caused by localized swelling of the superficial skin layers.
In hives, mast cells within the skin release substances that increase blood vessel permeability. Fluid then escapes into the surrounding tissue, forming a wheal, which is the characteristic raised area seen on the skin.
Key defining features of hives include
• Sudden onset of raised welts
• Intense itching or burning sensation
• Lesions that change location or shape
• Resolution without scarring
This pattern reflects a functional skin reaction rather than structural skin damage.
The skin plays an active role in immune signaling.
Hives develop when skin mast cells are triggered to release histamine and related mediators. These substances cause dilation and leakage of small blood vessels, resulting in swelling and redness.
Triggers for this release can vary and are not always identifiable, which explains why hives may appear unexpectedly.
Duration is an important clinical distinction.
Acute hives occur suddenly and resolve within days or weeks. They are often linked to temporary triggers such as infections, medications, foods, or physical factors.
Chronic hives persist or recur for more than six weeks. In many cases, no clear external trigger is identified, and the condition reflects ongoing skin immune sensitivity rather than continuous exposure to a single cause.
Hives are frequently mistaken for other dermatologic conditions.
Unlike eczema or infectious rashes, hives
• Appear and disappear rapidly
• Do not cause scaling or crusting
• Leave normal skin once resolved
This transient behavior is central to accurate identification.
Hives are often misunderstood.
Hives are not
• Contagious
• A sign of poor hygiene
• Directly related to HIV or AIDS
They represent a skin-level reaction that is usually benign and manageable.
Although medically mild, hives can be disruptive.
Persistent itching, visible welts, and unpredictable flare timing can interfere with sleep, concentration, and social comfort. These effects highlight the importance of proper dermatologic understanding and management.
Correctly identifying hives helps ensure appropriate care and avoids unnecessary testing or concern. Recognizing their characteristic appearance and behavior is the foundation for effective treatment and reassurance.
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
They are raised, itchy skin welts caused by temporary swelling of the skin.
No, hives cannot be passed from person to person.
No, hives are a dermatologic reaction and are not caused by HIV.
No, they usually resolve without permanent skin changes.
Yes, hives can occur at any age.
Did you know over 50 million Americans have an allergy? It’s important to understand allergy reaction tests and their results. This helps in diagnosing and
Did you know over 50 million Americans have allergies? Food allergies affect about 1 in 13 kids and 1 in 10 adults.testing for allergic reactionsAllergic:
Did you know that drinking caffeine before an allergy test can mess up the results? It can change how your body reacts to allergens. This
Did you know millions of people worldwide have chronic urticaria? This condition causes recurring hives that can really affect life quality. The Louisiana State University
An allergist is a doctor who deals with allergies. If you have allergy symptoms without knowing why, getting ready for your allergist visit is key.allergy
Did you know that food allergies affect over 32 million people in the United States? These allergies happen when your immune system thinks a food
Leave your phone number and our medical team will call you back to discuss your healthcare needs and answer all your questions.
Your Comparison List (you must select at least 2 packages)
