What’s Really Causing Your Hives? Uncover These Unexpected Triggers

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition that affects about 1 in 5 people at some point in their lives. It is characterized by raised, itchy patches on the skin called weals. These weals can be round or ring-shaped and may merge to form larger areas. They often appear after scratching and can develop anywhere on the body.

What Causes Urticaria?

Urticaria occurs when certain cells in the body—known as mast cells—release histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream. This triggers fluid to leak from small blood vessels in the skin, resulting in the formation of weals.

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While individual hives typically fade within 24 hours, the underlying condition may persist for days or even weeks, depending on the cause.

Associated Swelling: Angio-oedema

In some cases, urticaria is accompanied by angio-oedema—a deeper swelling under the skin that commonly affects soft tissues such as the lips, eyelids, or inside the mouth. Unlike hives, angio-oedema tends to last longer and is often painful rather than itchy.

If angio-oedema occurs without hives, it may be a sign of hereditary angio-oedema, a separate condition that is not related to urticaria and requires specialized testing and treatment.

Types of Urticaria

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Urticaria is classified based on how long it lasts and what triggers it:

• Acute Urticaria: The most common type, lasting less than six weeks. It is often triggered by identifiable factors such as allergens or infections.
• Chronic Urticaria: When symptoms persist for more than six weeks and the exact cause is often unknown.
• Physical Urticaria: Triggered by physical factors such as pressure, scratching, exposure to cold or sunlight, or an increase in body temperature.

Common Triggers

• Allergic reactions (to food, medication, insect bites)

• Infections (bacterial or viral)

• Emotional stress

Treatment and Relief

In most cases, hives resolve on their own within 24 hours and do not require treatment. However, if the condition is persistent or uncomfortable, your doctor may recommend:

• Antihistamines to reduce itching and swelling
• Steroid tablets for more severe cases
• Menthol creams to soothe irritated skin

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