All Services
Red, raised, itchy bumps or welts on your skin caused by a skin reaction.
What is it?
Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a prevalent skin ailment marked by itchy, red welts of varying sizes that can emerge anywhere on the body. Hives are typically caused by an allergic reaction brought on by exposure to allergens like food, medication, insect stings or animal dander. Some patients experience hives during periods of high stress. The rash typically eases within 24 hours, but newer ones may develop, giving the impression that the condition is ongoing or spreading across the body. This is called chronic urticaria (or chronic hives), which occurs when they persist beyond six weeks. This is typically rare but can indicate a more severe underlying health issue.
How is it treated?
Most of the time, hives will go away alone within a few days. Often, a cool bath or shower, a cold compress, an over-the-counter antihistamine, and loose-fitting clothing will keep symptoms at bay. However, seeing one of our board-certified dermatologists can be helpful if the hives last longer than a few days, cover a large area of your body or are caused by an allergy.
Our team begins by pinpointing the root cause or trigger of your hives, a vital step in managing and preventing future flare-ups. If the hives indicate a more severe disease, our dermatologists can help diagnose and treat that. We can also offer immediate relief by prescribing antihistamines, topical anti-itch creams, corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate the itching and swelling. Hives can cause discomfort and anxiety, but with the right dermatological care, they can be effectively supervised and regulated.
For immediate treatment options, schedule today with our board-certified dermatologists in our offices in Farmington Hills, Shelby Township, Clinton Township, Warren and St. Claire Shores, Michigan. They will work with you to determine the cause of your hives and develop an effective treatment plan.