Hives are raised, itchy, red, or skin-colored welts that appear suddenly and typically disappear within 24 hours. They are caused by the releases of histamine, causing blood vessels to leak and skin to swell. Common triggers include foods, medications, insect bites, infections, stress, heat, cold, pressure, or exercise; often, the cause remains unknown.

Hives can also be caused by autoimmune thyroid diseases, such as Hashimoto’s and other autoimmune conditions, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. These diseases can trigger hives through autoantibodies that activate mast cells and release histamine. Hives from autoimmune diseases are often chronic and may improve with thyroid hormone therapy or other immune treatments.
Most hives are harmless and can be treated with antihistamines. However, seek urgent care if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or dizziness.

Hives are raised, itchy, red or skin-colored bumps that can appear anywhere on the body. They often come and go quickly and may last for a few hours or days.

Evaluation:
• Our team will ask about your symptoms, possible triggers (like foods, medications, or infections), and your medical history.
• Sometimes, allergy testing or blood tests may be done if the cause isn’t clear or if hives keep coming back.

Treatment:
• Most hives go away on their own.
• Taking a non-drowsy antihistamine can help relieve itching and swelling.
• Avoid known triggers if you can identify them.
• For severe hives or swelling (especially if you have trouble breathing or swelling of the lips/tongue), seek medical help right away.

Most cases of hives are not serious and can be managed with simple treatments. If your hives last more than a few days or keep coming back, let us know!

Our aim is for you to feel better and look better – for an improved quality of life that you deserve.