Red Welts
- Hives (Urticaria)
- What Is It? & Symptoms
- Diagnosis & Expected Duration
- Prevention & Treatment
- More Info
What Is It?
Hives, also called urticaria, are circumscribed swellings on the skin that often are itchy. Often they are pink or red, but they don't have to be. Hives happen when the cells in the skin called mast cells release histamine, a chemical that causes tiny blood vessels (capillaries) to leak fluid. When this leaking fluid accumulates in the skin, it forms the swellings that we recognize as hives.
Hives can be triggered by physical factors such as heat, cold, exercise, sunlight, stress,...
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From Our Sources
Hives
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
UrticariaSymptomsItchingSwelling of the surface of the skin into red- or skin-colored welts (called wheals) with clearly defined edgesThe hives may... Read more »
Hives
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
UrticariaTreatmentTreatment may not be needed if the hives are mild. They may disappear on their own. To reduce itching and swelling:Avoid hot baths... Read more »
Hives
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
UrticariaPreventionAvoid exposure to substances that give you allergic reactions. Don't wear tight-fitting clothing and avoid hot baths or showers... Read more »
Urticaria pigmentosa
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Urticaria pigmentosa is a skin disease that produces lesions and intense itching. If you rub the lesions, hives may develop.Alternative... Read more »
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