Doctor's Notes on Hives and Angioedema
Hives and angioedema are reactions of the skin to histamines and other chemicals. Often, the release of these substances is due to an allergic reaction. However, there are many causes of hives and angioedema. In many cases, the specific cause cannot be determined, and the condition is termed idiopathic. Idiopathic hives and angioedema are very common. Common triggers of both hives and angioedema include:
- infections,
- allergies,
- insect bites or stings, and
- blood transfusions.
Hives (medically known as urticaria) appear as wheals on the skin that are smooth, elevated, red, itchy patches of skin that often have a white center. Hives may be a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter anywhere on the body and often form welts. Hives typically appear suddenly and in several places. They may go away after a few hours and appear in another location on the body.
Angioedema is similar to hives, only the welts are larger and form deeper in the skin, leading to severe swelling, usually in the face near the eyes and mouth.
What Is the Treatment for Hives and Angioedema?
Treatment for hives and angioedema varies depending on the severity of symptoms:
- The mainstay of treatment for hives and angioedema is antihistamine medications, which can be obtained over-the-counter or by prescription.
- For severe cases, oral corticosteroid medication may be prescribed in the short term to relieve symptoms.
- Severe or anaphylactic attacks that cause hives and angioedema are managed with epinephrine injections as well as medications to support breathing.
Allergies : Symptoms & Home Remedies Quiz

Allergies can best be described as:
See AnswerMust Read Articles:
-
Allergic Reaction
Allergic reactions can cause swelling, hives, rashes, and anaphylaxis in severe cases. Learn about allergy testing, symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention. -
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Eczema is a term frequently used to describe any sort of dermatitis. Causes include genetic inheritance. Common triggers of atopic dermatitis include soaps, detergents, solvents, lotions, sweating, staph bacteria, use of plastic or rubber gloves, or rough wool clothing. Treatment for eczema can be avoidance of irritants, OTC anti-inflammatory creams, prescription steroid and anti-inflammatory creams, and in some cases, antibiotics. -
HIV Transmission and the History of HIV/AIDS
In the late '70s, the syndrome caused by the HIV virus was seen in the U.S. We now know that HIV evolved from simian immunodeficiency virus in West Africa. HIV can be transmitted via contact with an infected person's blood or other bodily fluids. -
Rash
A rash is a visible skin outbreak. Examples of noninfectious rashes include eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, hives, and allergic dermatitis. Types of infectious rashes include ringworm, impetigo, scabies, herpes, chickenpox, and shingles. Rashes may be caused by fungi, viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Treatment depends upon the type of rash. -
What Is Causing My Hives?
Hives (urticaria) are red, itchy welts that can appear on any part of the skin and are usually caused by an allergic reaction. Hives can vary in size and may connect to form larger welts.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.