When you break out in hives, signs are obvious visually and there is seldom any doubt about what is happening. With an acute attack of hives, known medically as urticaria, signs of raised red splotches on the skin that itch intensely and appear suddenly are often frightening if never experienced before. These welts can appear as a single splotch, or may appear in a cluster. The cluster or grouping is why the plural of the word is used – hives. Signs also include slight swelling at the surface of the skin.

 

What Is Urticaria?

 

The condition is an immune system response to something the body sees as an enemy. Histamine is released by the mast cells of the skin, which dilate the blood vessels, increasing the flow of blood to that area. This is what causes the first urticaria signs of swelling and red spots. Additional hives signs of itching and scratchy feelings are from the release of this histamine chemical. Many acute, or short term, attacks of hives are triggered by an allergy. Most chronic, or long term cases of hives are a result of a viral or infectious agent that the immune system is trying to defend against. Some of the triggers that bring on the dreaded hives signs of swelling and itching are:

  • Allergies to something in the environment or something the skin has come in direct contact with
  • An autoimmune disease like lupus can cause urticaria signs to occur repeatedly over time, becoming chronic
  • Sweating
  • Extreme temperatures (hot or cold)
  • Exposure to the sun
  • Vibration can cause hives signs, but they are usually short-lived and appear in the extremities
  • Pressure to a certain skin area brings on the hives signs after the pressure is relieved

 

The Signs and Symptoms of Hives Usually Classified As Idiopathic

 

While hives signs and symptoms are fairly easy to see and classify, the cause remains a mystery in most cases. Doctors call this idiopathic urticaria.  It just means they have no idea as to the cause. Signs of hives come and go, tests are ordered, medications are tried, and yet the cause is never found in about 6 out of 10 cases.

Urticaria signs and symptoms are difficult to live with, especially if chronic. Keep in mind that there are natural and alternative ways to treat hives, and that it isn’t a good idea to remain on strong medications for extended periods. The urticaria signs and symptoms are bad enough that many people stay on steroids or antihistamines for years, but this isn’t good for anyone and it is best to find an alternative that works for you. Strengthening the immune system and eating foods that have antihistamine properties may be a good place to start.