Hives

Hives, also known as urticaria, are a skin reaction characterised by raised, red, itchy welts or bumps that can vary in size and shape. They typically appear suddenly and may move around the body, often disappearing within hours or days. Hives can be triggered by various factors, including allergic reactions to foods, medications, insect stings, or allergens such as pollen or pet dander. Non-allergic triggers may include viral infections, stress, temperature extremes, or physical factors like pressure on the skin or exposure to sunlight. While they can be uncomfortable, especially due to itching, most cases of hives are not serious and can be managed effectively with over-the-counter medications and by avoiding triggers.