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Raised, itchy welts on the skin that appear suddenly. Can be triggered by allergies, stress, infections, or medications. Usually harmless but can be very uncomfortable.
From $19.95 · No appointment needed
Call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department
Common triggers include allergic reactions (food, medication, insect stings), viral infections, stress, heat, exercise, and pressure on the skin. In many cases, no specific trigger is identified.
Hives themselves are not dangerous, but they can be part of a more serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Seek emergency care if hives are accompanied by throat swelling, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat.
Individual welts typically last 30 minutes to 24 hours, but new welts may continue appearing. Acute hives resolve within 6 weeks. Chronic hives (lasting beyond 6 weeks) require investigation.
Non-drowsy antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine) are first-line treatment. For severe episodes, a short course of corticosteroids may be needed. Avoid triggers if identified.
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