Diseases
urticaria
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
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. The rash is usually very itchy and ranges in size from a few millimetres to the size of a hand.
Symptoms
- batches of welts (wheals) that can arise anywhere on the body
- welts that might be red, purple or skin-colored, depending on your skin color
- itchiness (pruritus), which can be intense
- painful swelling (angioedema) around the eyes, cheeks or lips
- flares triggered by heat, exercise or stress
Causes
- medical conditions, such as thyroid disease, infection, allergy and cancer.
- vibration, such as caused by jogging or using lawnmowers
- pressure on the skin, as from a tight waistband
Risk factors
- exposure to specific foods, drugs, cold exposure (cold water or air).
Diagnosis
- based on your activities
- or any medications, herbal remedies or supplements you take
- or what you eat and drink.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is urticaria?
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. The rash is usually very itchy and ranges in size from a few millimetres to the size of a hand.
What are the symptoms of urticaria?
batches of welts (wheals) that can arise anywhere on the body, welts that might be red, purple or skin-colored, depending on your skin color, itchiness (pruritus), which can be intense, painful swelling (angioedema) around the eyes, cheeks or lips, flares triggered by heat, exercise or stress
What causes urticaria?
medical conditions, such as thyroid disease, infection, allergy and cancer.; vibration, such as caused by jogging or using lawnmowers; pressure on the skin, as from a tight waistband
Which medicines are used for urticaria?
acrivastine, brompheniramine, cetirizine, chlorpheniramine, cyproheptadine, desloratadine, dimetindene, fexofenadine, hydroxyzine, levocetirizine, loratadine, mequitazine, omalizumab, pheniramine, rupatadine
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