Urticaria, the medical term for hives, is a condition characterized by itchy, raised welts that develop on the skin. These circular or irregular-shaped areas can appear suddenly, vary in size, and often move from one area of the body to another. About one in five people will experience urticaria at some point in their lifetime.

Hives occur when the body releases histamine and other chemicals into the skin, causing swelling, redness, and itching. They can be triggered by many different factors, including infections, emotional stress, medications, foods, heat, cold, pressure, vibration, or other physical stressors. In many cases—especially when hives last longer than six weeks—the exact cause may remain unknown.

Symptoms may come and go quickly or persist for longer periods, depending on the underlying trigger. Identifying and avoiding the source, when possible, is an important part of managing the condition.

Treatment Options: Anti-itch lotions and antihistamine medications (over-the-counter), prescription steroid creams, corticosteroids, prescription oral medications, and identifying and eliminating triggering stressors whenever possible.

Our team at Dermatology Clinic of Iowa will carefully evaluate your symptoms and identify potential triggers, recommending the most appropriate treatment plan to relieve discomfort and manage recurrent hives.