Hives (Urticaria)
Hives (Urticaria) What are hives (urticaria)? Also known as urticaria (pronounced as ur-ti-kar-ee-uh ), hives are characterised as clusters of swollen, raised welts (1) on the surface of the skin which are pink, red or flesh-coloured and blanched (pale) in the centre. Hives are mostly classified as an acute condition (i.e. temporary) and are most often triggered by an allergen (foodstuff, medication or environmental irritant). Hives can, however, occur on a frequent basis and become a chronic condition. Chronic hives are generally accompanied by severe allergic reactions which can have serious complications. They are thus not considered a contagious condition . What causes or triggers hives? 1. Allergies 2. Other common triggers Non-allergic triggers can include: Exercise and excessive sweating (resulting in body heat-inducin...