Health Tip: Have Hives?

(HealthDay News) - Hives are red, raised patches of skin that are usually very itchy. Hives themselves often are not serious, but they may indicate a more serious condition.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine lists these common triggers for hives:

• Some medications.
• Foods that many people are allergic to, including shellfish, nuts, eggs and milk.
• Pollen.
• Dander from animals, notably cats.
• Bites from insects.
• Infections and some illnesses, including lupus and leukemia.
• Stress or anxiety.
• Prolonged exposure to the sun or the cold.
• Excessive sweating.