How do you describe hives?
- Dry skin.
- Itching, which may be severe, especially at night.
- Red to brownish-gray patches, especially on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees, and in infants, the face and scalp.
- Small, raised bumps, which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched.
What is the medical term meaning hives?
Urticaria is the medical term for hives. These are itchy raised bumps or welts on your skin. Your dermatologist may call them wheals. When hives appear and reappear over the course of 6 weeks or...
What do hives mean?
Hives, also known as urticaria, are itchy, raised welts that are found on the skin. They are usually red, pink, or flesh-colored, and sometimes they sting or hurt. In most cases, hives are caused by an allergic reaction to a medication or food or a reaction to an irritant in the environment.
How to describe hives?
hives, also called urticaria, a hypersensitive skin reaction characterized by the sudden appearance of very itchy, slightly raised, smooth, flat-topped wheals and plaques that are usually redder or paler than the surrounding skin.
What is another term for hives?
Urticaria – also known as hives, weals, welts or nettle rash – is a raised, itchy rash that appears on the skin. It may appear on one part of the body or be spread across large areas.
What are hives called in medical terms?
"Urticaria" is the medical term for hives. Hives are raised or puffy areas of the skin that itch intensely (picture 1). Hives are a very common condition. About 20 percent of people have hives at some time during their lives.
What does the term hives mean?
Definition of hives : an allergic disorder marked by raised edematous patches of skin or mucous membrane and usually intense itching and caused by contact with a specific precipitating factor (such as a food, drug, or inhalant) either externally or internally. — called also urticaria.
Where does the term hives come from?
History. The term urticaria was first used by the Scottish physician William Cullen in 1769. It originates from the Latin word urtica, meaning stinging hair or nettle, as the classical presentation follows the contact with a perennial flowering plant Urtica dioica.
What is the medical term for rash?
A simple rash is called dermatitis, meaning inflammation of the skin. Contact dermatitis is caused by things your skin touches, such as: Chemicals in elastic, latex, and rubber products. Cosmetics, soaps, and detergents.
What are hives on the skin?
Hives are raised red bumps (welts) or splotches on the skin. They are a type of swelling on the surface of your skin. They happen when your body has an allergic reaction to an allergen, a substance that's harmless to most people.
What is the singular of hives?
hives /haɪvz/ n. (functioning as singular or plural) a nontechnical name for urticaria Etymology: 16th Century: of uncertain origin.
Why do you get hives?
In terms of allergens, hives can be caused by factors such as pollen, medications, food, animal dander, and insect bites. Hives might also be caused by circumstances besides allergies. It's not uncommon for people to experience hives as the result of stress, tight clothes, exercise, illnesses, or infections.
What does hives look like?
Hives are red raised bumps or welts on the skin. Hives (or urticaria) is a common skin reaction to something like an allergen (a substance that causes allergies). The spots can appear anywhere on the body and can look like tiny little spots, blotches, or large connected bumps.
What illness causes hives?
What autoimmune diseases cause chronic hives?Celiac disease.Dermatomyositis.Diabetes.Lupus.Polymyositis.Rheumatoid arthritis.Thyroid disease.Vitiligo.
What infection causes hives?
Hives that last longer than six weeks or with recurring outbreaks over a six-week period are most commonly caused by viral or bacterial infections like Helicobacter pylori (bacteria in the stomach), hepatitis or a dental infection. Autoimmune diseases like lupus and Hashimoto disease can also cause hives.
What viral illness causes hives?
Some infections that can cause hives in children include respiratory viruses (common cold), strep throat, urinary tract infections, hepatitis, infectious mononucleosis (mono) and many other viral infections.
What is the main cause of urticaria?
The most common cause of hives is infections. Foods such as eggs, nuts and shellfish are common causes of urticaria. Medications such as aspirin and antibiotics (especially penicillin and sulfa) also are common causes of hives. Infections causing hives include the common cold, and other viral infections.
How do you describe hives on a physical exam?
Urticaria is characterized by blanching, raised, palpable wheals (hives), which can be linear, annular (circular), or arcuate (serpiginous). These lesions occur on any skin area and are usually transient and migratory.
What is the difference between a rash and hives?
Official answer. The main difference between hives and a rash is that hives are a particular type of rash, characterized by swollen, pale-red or skin-colored bumps on the skin that appear and disappear quickly, and tend to “blanch” (which means turn white) when pressed. Hives are also known as urticaria.
What is the cure for urticaria?
Acute urticaria non-sedating antihistamines, such as cetirizine (Zyrtec) or fexofenadine (Allegra) short-term use of topical steroids. antiseptic creams to prevent a secondary infection. soothing creams to reduce itchiness.
What is a hive symptom?
Hives including chronic spontaneous hives can be a complication and symptom of a parasitic infection, such as blastocystosis and strongyloidiasis among others.
How long do hives last?
The hives may last from eight hours to three days. The source of the pressure on the skin can happen from tight fitted clothing, belts, clothing with tough straps, walking, leaning against an object, standing, sitting on a hard surface, etc.
How long does urticaria last?
The common form of cold urticaria demonstrates itself with the rapid onset of hives on the face, neck, or hands after exposure to cold. Cold urticaria is common and lasts for an average of five to six years. The population most affected is young adults, between 18 and 25 years old. Many people with the condition also suffer from dermographism and cholinergic hives.
What is CU in urticaria?
Cholinergic urticaria (CU) is one of the physical urticaria which is provoked during sweating events such as exercise, bathing, staying in a heated environment, or emotional stress. The hives produced are typically smaller than classic hives and are generally shorter-lasting.
How long does it take for hives to appear?
In the deferred form, the hives only appear after about six hours from the initial application of pressure to the skin.
What is a rash on the left side of the chest?
Hives on the left chest wall. Notice that they are slightly raised. Hives. Drawing of hives. Hives , or urticaria, is a form of skin rash with red, raised, itchy bumps. They may also burn or sting. Welts (raised areas surrounded by a red base) from hives can appear anywhere on the surface of the skin.
How long does angioedema last?
Fewer than 5% of cases last for more than six weeks. The condition frequently recurs. In half of cases of hives, the cause remains unknown. Angioedema is a related condition (also from allergic and nonallergic causes), though fluid leakage is from much deeper blood vessels in the subcutaneous or submucosal layers.
How long do hives last?
They can appear on just one part of the body, or on several parts. Symptoms normally disappear within 24 hours, but sometimes another weal appears as the last one fades. In some cases, hives can continue for several days. People with chronic hives can have symptoms for months or years.
How many people have hives?
Hives affect around 20 percent of people at some time in their life.
What is a red rash that is triggered by an allergen?
Hives are a red, raised, itchy skin rash that is sometimes triggered by an allergen. An allergen is something that produces an allergic reaction. It is also known as urticaria, welts, weals, or nettle rash. When an allergic reaction occurs, the body releases a protein called histamine.
What happens when you get an allergic reaction?
When an allergic reaction occurs, the body releases a protein called histamine. When histamine is released, the tiny blood vessels known as capillaries leak fluid. The fluid accumulates in the skin and causes a rash. Hives affect around 20 percent of people at some time in their life. It is not contagious.
Why does urticaria start as an autoimmune response?
Chronic urticaria may start as an autoimmune response, but why it happens is unclear.
What is the best treatment for urticaria?
Treatment is different than that for acute urticaria. Antibiotics, for example, Dapsone, can reduce redness and swelling. Omalizumab, or Xolair, is an injectable drug that blocks immunoglobin E, a substance that plays a role in allergic responses. It can reduce symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria, a type of hives of unknown origin ...
How big is a wheal?
They can range from a few millimeters to several inches across. They can be extremely itchy, and they have a red flare around them. The wheals usually occur in batches, frequently on the face or the extremities, including the arms, hands, fingers, legs, feet, and toes.
What is it called when you have hives?
When the reaction is limited to small areas of the skin, it is called "urticaria.". Involvement of larger areas, such as whole sections of a limb, is called "angioedema.".
What is hives allergic reaction?
The body's immune system is normally responsible for protection from foreign invaders. When it becomes sensitized to normally harmless substances, the resulting reaction is called an allergy. An attack of hives is set off when such a substance, called an allergen, is ingested, inhaled, or otherwise contacted. It interacts with immune cells called mast cells, which reside in the skin, airways, and digestive system. When mast cells encounter an allergen, they release histamine and other chemicals, both locally and into the bloodstream. These chemicals cause blood vessels to become more porous, allowing fluid to accumulate in tissue and leading to the swollen and reddish appearance of hives. Some of the chemicals released sensitize pain nerve endings, causing the affected area to become itchy and sensitive.
What is the meaning of "ur'ti-car'ia"?
ur·ti·car·i·a. ( ŭr'ti-kar'ē-ă) An eruption of itching wheals, usually of systemic origin; it may be due to a state of hypersensitivity to foods or drugs, foci of infection, physical agents (e.g., exercise, heat, cold, light, friction), or psychic stimuli. Synonym (s): hives (1) , urtication (3) .
How long does it take for hives to clear up?
Most cases of hives clear up within one to seven days without treatment, providing the cause (allergen) is found and avoided.
What is cold urticaria?
cold urticaria urticaria precipitated by cold air, water, or objects, occurring in two forms: In the autosomal dominant form, which is associated with fever, arthralgias, and leukocytosis, the lesions occur as erythematous, burning papules and macules. The more common acquired form is usually idiopathic and self-limited.
What is the name of the cell that fights off hives?
It interacts with immune cells called mast cells, which reside in the skin, airways, and digestive system.
How to diagnose hives?
Hives are easily diagnosed by visual inspection. The cause of hives is usually apparent, but may require a careful medical history in some cases.
What is a hive on dark skin?
Hives on dark skin. Hives, also known as urticaria, are reddened, itchy welts that may be triggered by exposure to certain foods, medications or other substances. Hives (urticaria) are red, itchy welts that result from a skin reaction. The welts vary in size and appear and fade repeatedly as the reaction runs its course.
What to do if you have hives?
Seek emergency medical care. Chronic hives don't put you at any sudden risk of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). If you do experience hives as part of a serious allergic reaction, seek emergency care. Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include dizziness, trouble breathing, and swelling of your lips, eyelids and tongue.
What causes red welts on the face?
Angioedema. Angioedema. Angioedema may cause large welts below the surface of the skin, particularly on the eyes and lips. Angioedema may also affect the hands, feet and throat. Signs and symptoms of chronic hives include: Batches of red or skin-colored welts (wheals), which can appear anywhere on the body.
What are the red welts on the body?
Batches of red or skin-colored welts (wheals), which can appear anywhere on the body. Welts that vary in size, change shape, and appear and fade repeatedly as the reaction runs its course. A tendency for signs and symptoms to flare with triggers such as heat, exercise and stress.
Can hives cause sleep problems?
Often, the cause of chronic hives is not clear. Chronic hives can be very uncomfortable and interfere with sleep and daily activities. For many people, antihistamines and anti-itch medications provide relief.
Can hives cause anaphylaxis?
Chronic hives don 't put you at any sudden risk of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). But if you do experience hives as part of a serious allergic reaction, seek emergency care. Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include dizziness, trouble breathing, and swelling of your lips, eyelids and tongue.
What is the name of the acne that causes bumps and pus?from everydayhealth.com
Nodulocystic Acne A severe form of acne that causes numerous, deep, inflamed bumps (nodules) and large, pus-filled lesions (cysts). The nodules can be tender when touched and feel firm; cysts can also be tender but are fluid-filled so they feel soft to the touch. Scarring can result when the acne heals.
What is the outermost layer of the skin?from everydayhealth.com
Epidermis The outermost layer of the skin.
What are warts and verrucas?from patient.info
Warts are small rough lumps on the skin. They are caused by a virus (human papillomavirus) which causes a reaction in the skin. Warts can occur anywhere on the body but occur most commonly on hands and feet. They range in size from 1 mm to over 1 cm. Sometimes only one or two warts develop. Sometimes several occur in the same area of skin. The shape and size of warts vary and they are sometimes classed by how they look. Examples are:
What is a mosaic wart?from patient.info
Mosaic warts - when several warts join together. Verrucas are warts on the soles of the feet. They are the same as warts on any other part of the body. However, they may look flatter, as they tend to get trodden in. Note: anal and genital warts are different.
What is a pimple?from en.wikipedia.org
Dermatology. A pimple is a kind of comedo that results from excess sebum and dead skin cells getting trapped in the pores of the skin. In its aggravated state, it may evolve into a pustule or papules.
What is multifactorial acne?from everydayhealth.com
Multi-factorial A term that dermatologists use to describe how and why acne forms, which typically involves multiple factors, including bacteria , oil, excess skin cell shedding, medication, hormones, stress, and diet.
What is the term for a skin condition that results from wearing sports equipment?from everydayhealth.com
Acne Mechanica A type of acne that results from wearing sports equipment or synthetic clothing that traps heat and sweat, and also rubs against the skin. If you have acne-prone skin, warmth combined with moisture and friction can lead to breakouts.
Prognosis
Causes
Symptoms
Prevention
Treatment
- In many cases, hives are an acute (temporary) problem that may be alleviated with allergy medications. Most rashes go away on their own. However, chronic (ongoing) cases, as well as hives accompanied by a severe allergic reaction, are larger medical concerns. Hives may disapp…
Diagnosis
- Hives are usually caused by an allergic reaction to something that you have encountered or swallowed. When you have an allergic reaction, your body begins to release histamines into your blood. Histamines are chemicals your body produces in an attempt to defend itself against infection and other outside intruders. Unfortunately, in some people, the histamines can cause s…
Overview
- The most noticeable symptom associated with hives is the welts that appear on the skin. Welts may be red, but can also be the same color as your skin. They can be small and round, ring-shaped, or large and of random shape. Hives are itchy, and they tend to appear in batches on the affected part of the body. They can grow larger, change shape, and spread. Anaphylaxis is a sev…
Signs and symptoms
- Hives can occur in a variety of places on the body. Call 911 or seek medical attention immediately if you develop a hive outbreak around your throat or on your tongue or have trouble breathing along with hives. Simple changes to your lifestyle may be able to help you prevent hives from reoccurring in the future. If you have allergies and you know which substances are likely to caus…
Cause
- Mild cases of hives caused by allergies are typically treated with long- or short-term allergy medications and avoidance of the trigger. You may not need prescription treatment if youre experiencing a mild case of hives not related to allergies or other health conditions. In these circumstances, your doctor might suggest that you seek temporary relief by: Anaphylaxis is a m…
Pathophysiology
- The first step in getting treatment is to figure out if you actually have hives. In most cases, your doctor will be able to determine if you have hives from a physical exam. Your skin will show signs of the welts that are associated with hives. Your doctor may also perform blood tests or skin tests to determine what may have caused your hives especially if they were the result of an allergic re…
Diagnosis
Hives, also known as urticaria, is a kind of skin rash with red, raised, itchy bumps. Hives may burn or sting. The patches of rash may appear on different body parts, with variable duration from minutes to days, and does not leave any long-lasting skin change. Fewer than 5% of cases last for more than six weeks. The condition frequently recurs.
Management
Hives, or urticaria, is a form of skin rash with red, raised, itchy bumps. They may also burn or sting. Welts (raised areas surrounded by a red base) from hives can appear anywhere on the surface of the skin. Whether the trigger is allergic or not, a complex release of inflammatory mediators, including histamine from cutaneous mast cells, results in fluid leakage from superficial blood vessels. W…
Research
Hives can also be classified by the purported causative agent. Many different substances in the environment may cause hives, including medications, food and physical agents. In perhaps more than 50% of people with chronic hives of unknown cause, it is due to an autoimmune reaction. Risk factors include having conditions such as hay fever or asthma.
Drugs that have caused allergic reactions evidenced as hives include codeine, sulphate of morphia,
History
The skin lesions of urticarial disease are caused by an inflammatory reaction in the skin, causing leakage of capillaries in the dermis, and resulting in an edema which persists until the interstitial fluid is absorbed into the surrounding cells.
Hives are caused by the release of histamine and other mediators of inflammation (cytokines) from cells in the skin. This process can be the result of an allergic or nonallergic reaction, differi…