Hives (Urticaria) Treatment
Relief from itchy, recurring hives with expert diagnosis and personalized care.
Hives (Urticaria) Diagnosis & Treatment
What Are Hives?
Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, itchy welts on the skin that can appear suddenly and change in size or location.
They may last for a few hours or persist for longer periods depending on the cause.
Common symptoms include:
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Itchy, red or skin-colored welts
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Swelling of affected areas
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Episodes that come and go
Acute vs. Chronic Hives
Hives are classified as:
Acute Hives
Last less than 6 weeks and are often triggered by infections, foods, or medications.
Chronic Hives
Persist for more than 6 weeks and may not have a clearly identifiable trigger.
Chronic urticaria often requires specialized evaluation and management.
Possible Triggers
Triggers may include:
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Infections
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Foods or food additives
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Medications
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Environmental factors
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Physical triggers (heat, cold, pressure)
In many chronic cases, a specific trigger may not be identified.
How We Evaluate Hives
At AASP, evaluation includes:
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Detailed symptom history
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Review of possible triggers
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Assessment of frequency and severity
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Targeted testing when appropriate
Our goal is to identify patterns and rule out underlying causes.
Treatment Options
Treatment is tailored to each patient and may include:
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Antihistamines
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Adjusted medication regimens
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Advanced therapies for chronic cases (including biologics)
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Ongoing monitoring and follow-up
We focus on reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.
When to See a Specialist
You should seek evaluation if:
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Hives persist or recur frequently
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Symptoms last longer than a few weeks
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Over-the-counter medications are not effective
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Swelling or other symptoms occur along with hives
Get Relief from Chronic Hives
Schedule an evaluation with AASP for expert care.
