Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition that affects many people worldwide. It is characterized by red, itchy, and swollen bumps or patches that appear on the skin. The bumps may be small or large, and they can appear anywhere on the body.
Urticaria is typically caused by an allergic reaction triggered by the body’s histamine production. Histamine is a chemical that is released by the body in response to an allergen or irritant. When histamine is released, it causes the blood vessels in the skin to become dilated, which leads to the appearance of hives.
Common causes of urticaria include:
- Certain foods, such as shellfish, nuts, and eggs
- Medications, such as antibiotics, painkillers, and blood pressure medications
- Insect bites or stings
- Exposure to chemicals or other irritants
- Stress or anxiety
In most cases, hives are not serious and go away on their own within a few hours or days. However, in some cases, hives can be severe and cause difficulty breathing or swallowing. If you have severe hives, you should seek medical attention immediately.