OverviewHives — also called urticaria (ur-tih-KAR-e-uh) — is a skin reaction that causes itchy welts. Chronic hives are welts that last for more than six weeks and return often over months or years. Often, the cause of chronic hives isn't clear. Show The welts often start as itchy patches that turn into swollen welts that vary in size. These welts appear and fade at random as the reaction runs its course. Chronic hives can be very uncomfortable and interfere with sleep and daily activities. For many people, anti-itch medications (antihistamines) provide relief. SymptomsSymptoms of chronic hives include:
When to see a doctorSee your health care provider if you have severe hives or hives that last for more than a few days. Seek emergency medical careChronic hives do not put you at sudden risk of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). If you get hives as part of a severe allergic reaction, seek emergency care. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include dizziness, trouble breathing, and swelling of the tongue, lips, mouth or throat. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health
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will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. CausesThe welts that come with hives are caused by the release of immune system chemicals, such as histamine, into your bloodstream. It's often not known why chronic hives happen or why short-term hives sometimes turn into a long-term problem. The skin reaction may be triggered by:
ComplicationsChronic hives don't put you at sudden risk of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). If you do get hives as part of a severe allergic reaction, seek emergency care. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include dizziness, trouble breathing, and swelling of the tongue, lips, mouth or throat. PreventionTo lower your likelihood of experiencing hives or angioedema, take the following precautions:
Sept. 28, 2022
RelatedAssociated ProceduresProducts & ServicesCan allergic hives last weeks?Hives — also called urticaria (ur-tih-KAR-e-uh) — is a skin reaction that causes itchy welts. Chronic hives are welts that last for more than six weeks and return often over months or years.
Why won't my hives go away?Hives that last for longer than 6 weeks might be a sign of an autoimmune condition such as lupus, type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease, or rheumatoid arthritis. These hives won't go away on their own.
How long does it take for hives to go away after taking Benadryl?They most often go away in less than 4 hours. Widespread Hives: widespread hives are hives that occur on more than one part of the body at the same time. It is often an allergic reaction to something.
When should I be worried about hives?If you think your hives or angioedema was caused by a known allergy to food or a medication, your symptoms may be an early sign of an anaphylactic reaction. Seek emergency care if you feel your tongue, lips, mouth or throat swelling or if you're having trouble breathing.
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