Hives – Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Hives – Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment in Emirates Hospitals Group

Overview

Hives, or urticaria, are raised, red, itchy welts on the skin that occur due to allergic reactions or other triggers. They can appear anywhere on the body and vary in size.

Causes:

• Allergic Reactions – To food, medication, or insect stings.
• Stress or Anxiety – Emotional stress can trigger or worsen hives.
• Infections – Viral or bacterial infections can sometimes cause hives.

Diagnosis:

• Physical Examination – Visual assessment of the welts and their distribution.
• Allergy Testing – Skin or blood tests to identify potential allergens.
• Medical History – To identify triggers and underlying conditions.

Treatment Options:

• Antihistamines – To relieve itching and reduce hives.
• Corticosteroids – For severe cases or persistent outbreaks.

Avoidance of Triggers – Identifying and avoiding allergens or stressors.