Hives, also known as urticaria, are a skin reaction that causes itchy welts. They are raised, red bumps or splotches on the skin that can appear anywhere on the body and can range in size from a few millimeters to the size of a dinner plate. Hives can be caused by an allergic reaction to food, medication, or an irritant in the environment. They can also be caused by stress, tight clothes, exercise, illnesses, or infections. Hives can be acute, lasting for a few minutes to a few days, or chronic, lasting for months or even years. Symptoms of hives include:

• Batches of welts (wheals) that can arise anywhere on the body
• Welts that might be red, purple or skin-colored, depending on your skin color
• Welts that vary in size, change shape, and appear and fade repeatedly
• Itchiness (pruritus), which can be intense
• Painful swelling (angioedema) around the eyes, cheeks or lips

Hives are not typically life-threatening, but any swelling in the throat or any other symptom that restricts breathing requires immediate emergency care. The best way to identify your symptoms is to talk to an allergist who can diagnose and treat both hives and angioedema. Treatment for hives may include antihistamines or steroids. If you develop a hives outbreak around your throat or on your tongue or have trouble breathing along with hives, call 911 or get medical attention immediately.