Urticaria, or hives, appears as itchy swollen welts on the skin. These lesions can appear on any part of the body and vary in size.

A person may break out in hives for many reasons. Heat, stress, allergic reactions, UV radiation, some foods, cold weather, and water are just a few causes of urticaria.

A hive welt usually disappears in 24 hours or less. New hives may appear as older hives fade. A case of acute hives usually lasts less than 6 weeks, but chronic hives last longer. Hives may resolve on their own, but medications can provide symptom relief. We understand hives can cause significant discomfort, so please call our office to make an appointment to discuss treatment.