Urticaria (Hives)

Urticaria is the medical term for hives, which appear as red, itchy, raised rashes on the skin. Urticaria can occur anywhere on the body, including the face, chest, and back. The rash can be localized on one part of the body or spread across large areas. Rashes may clear within six weeks (acute urticaria) or, more rarely, persist for more than six weeks (chronic urticaria).

Your allergist and immunologist at Skin and Laser Dermatology Center can diagnose and control your symptoms so you can spend your time focused on what matters most. Call today for an appointment at (703) 893-1114 or submit an appointment request form online.

How common is urticaria?

About a quarter of the United States population will experience urticaria during their lifetime.

How long do hives occur for?

Most cases of hives are called acute cases because they go away within a few days or weeks (acute urticaria). Some cases of hives, however, can be recurring for several months or years, in which case they become chronic (chronic urticaria). Living with itchy skin can be particularly difficult which is why it is important to be seen for routine dermatological evaluation and as symptoms manifest.

What causes different kinds of urticaria?

Urticaria occurs when a trigger causes elevated levels of histamine and other chemical messengers to be released in the skin. These substances cause tissue in the skin to swell and become itchy.

Different triggers cause acute and chronic urticaria. Acute urticaria is often due to a viral infection, food or drug allergy, or an adverse drug reaction. The majority of chronic urticaria cases are either autoimmune related or due to non-allergic, environmental triggers. These environmental triggers can include scratching or rubbing, pressure from tight clothes, sweating, sunlight, water, or cold exposure.

Given the variety of causes for urticaria, it is best to have your condition evaluated by an allergist at Skin and Laser Dermatology Center, in order to determine the best treatment plan.

Do hives leave marks on the skin?

Normally an individual hive fades within a 24-hour period and the skin returns to its original state without any marks or bruising.

How will treatment help manage my urticaria?

Medication can help reduce itchiness and the appearance of hives. Your provider will outline a treatment plan that is appropriate for both regular maintenance and outbreaks so you have the medications you need, when you need it.