Urticaria, or hives, is a common skin condition marked by raised, red or skin-colored itchy welts. They often appear in clusters on the face, arms, legs, or torso and usually disappear within 24 hours without leaving marks. “Although it can be alarming, in most cases, urticaria is a benign and transient condition.”

These welts form when mast cells release histamine, causing tiny blood vessels to leak fluid into the skin. Main symptoms include itchy welts (hives) and swelling (angioedema), which can affect the eyelids, lips, or throat—potentially becoming a medical emergency if breathing is affected.

Types include:

* **Acute Urticaria** (lasting less than 6 weeks, usually with a known cause)
* **Chronic Urticaria** (lasting over 6 weeks, often with no clear cause)
* **Physical Urticaria** (triggered by factors like scratching, cold, pressure, sunlight, or heat)

Triggers include food allergies, medications, infections, physical factors, and stress. Chronic cases are often autoimmune-related.

Diagnosis is based on symptoms and medical history. Treatment focuses on symptom relief:

* **Antihistamines** to reduce itching
* **Corticosteroids** for severe cases
* **Avoiding known triggers** like specific foods or medications.