It is not always possible to determine what causes hives on face. However, it is possible to identify the condition when it occurs, particularly in the presence of certain symptoms. The skin tends to itch a lot, and sometimes it has a burning sensation. It can be bright red in color and feel unusually hot. The face often has welts or large patches of inflamed skin and small, round swellings. Facial hives can extend to the neck and shoulders.

Of particular concern to medical professionals is the fact that facial hives can be accompanied by angioedema. This is a similar condition to facial hives, but it strikes deeper in the skin. While hives affect the upper dermis, angioedema affects the dermis, subcutaneous tissues, mucosa and sub-mucosal tissue. Angioedema can present as a swollen face with inflammation of the eyes, ears or mouth. It usually lasts a few hours, hence is not typically life-threatening. Even so, it is an alarming condition for the patient who experiences it. He or she will want to understand what causes hives on face and facial angioedema in order to effectively deal with them. Living with the threat of developing either or both of these conditions at any given moment can severely diminish a patient’s quality of life.

When Knowing What Causes Hives on Face Can Save Lives

In the worst case scenario, the simultaneous occurrence of facial hives and angioedema can be a threat to the patient’s life. This can happen when the patient’s throat swells, causing the constriction of the air passage and difficulty in breathing. If not addressed immediately it can result in the patient’s death. The administration of epinephrine tends to be effective when the patient’s hives and angioedema are caused by factors other than genetic heritage. When the patient’s susceptibility to hives and angioedema are inherited epinephrine is less effective. It would be important for such a patient to avoid the factor that triggered the hives and angioedema. Thus, he or she would be best served by knowledge about what causes hives on face.

Another cause for concern by a patient with facial hives would be the development of a fever. The feverish patient would likely be suffering from and reacting to an infection of some kind. Such an infection could be fatal. Thus, it would be important to get it treated as soon as possible. Seeking medical help would be paramount. In this instance figuring out what causes hives on face could help save a life.