Yes, that’s correct. Hives, also known as urticaria, are a common skin condition characterized by the sudden appearance of raised, red, and often itchy welts or wheals on the skin. These welts can vary in size and shape and may be surrounded by areas of redness. Hives can be quite uncomfortable due to itching, and they can appear anywhere on the body.
Key characteristics of hives include:
Raised Wheals: Hives are characterized by the appearance of raised, swollen welts on the skin. These wheals can be small or large and may change in size and shape over time.
Redness: The wheals are typically red or pink in color and may be surrounded by areas of redness or erythema.
Itching: Hives are often accompanied by intense itching, which can be bothersome and may worsen if the person scratches the affected areas.
Transient Nature: Hives tend to come and go rapidly. Individual welts may last for a few hours to a day before fading, but new ones can appear in different areas.
Allergic Reaction: In many cases, hives are triggered by an allergic reaction to various substances, such as certain foods, medications, insect stings, or contact with allergens. However, they can also be caused by non-allergic factors like stress, heat, or physical pressure (known as physical urticaria).
Angioedema: Sometimes, hives are accompanied by a deeper swelling of tissues, known as angioedema, which can affect areas like the lips, eyelids, and extremities. Angioedema can be more severe and potentially life-threatening if it involves the throat, causing difficulty breathing or swallowing.
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Hives are typically a temporary and self-limiting condition, and they can often be managed with antihistamines to relieve itching and reduce the outbreak. However, if hives are severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms like difficulty breathing or a swollen throat, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention, as this could indicate a more serious allergic reaction or condition.
