Urticaria (Hives): Causes, Relief and When to Worry
Hives are itchy raised welts that usually fade within 24 hours. Most cases settle with non-drowsy antihistamines. Lip or throat swelling needs emergency care.
Condition guide
Urticaria (hives)
Also known as Hives, Sheetpitti, Pitti, Nettle rash, Itchy welts.
In short
Urticaria, or hives, causes raised, itchy welts that appear suddenly and usually fade within 24 hours, often moving from place to place. Short episodes can be triggered by infections, medicines or foods, while hives that keep coming back for more than 6 weeks are called chronic urticaria and often have no single cause that can be found. Most people do well with treatment from a doctor.
Typical signs
- Raised, itchy red or skin-coloured welts
- Welts that change shape and move within hours
- Swelling of the lips, eyelids, hands or feet
- Hives triggered by pressure, heat, cold or scratching in some people
When to see a dermatologist
- Hives keep coming back for more than 6 weeks
- Hives are disturbing sleep or work
- Individual welts last longer than 24 hours or leave bruising
- Get emergency help at once if there is swelling of the tongue or throat, difficulty breathing or feeling faint
Signs vary from person to person and several skin conditions look alike. Only an examination can confirm a diagnosis.
Read the guides
Full, referenced articles on urticaria (hives) written for Indian skin, with answers to common questions.
Worried about urticaria (hives)?
Book an online consultation with Dr. Maria Ansari for an assessment and a written care plan made for you.
This page is a short summary for general education and does not replace a consultation with a qualified dermatologist. Do not start, stop or change any medicine based on this page. Read the full medical disclaimer.