Health guide

Urticaria (Hives)

Urticaria, commonly called hives, causes itchy, raised skin welts that often come and go. This page explains typical symptoms, common triggers, how episodes are classified, and which specialists can help. If you experience breathing problems, swelling of the face or tongue, fainting, or other urgent signs, seek emergency care immediately.

What is urticaria and how is it classified?

Urticaria consists of sudden, itchy raised patches (wheals) that can appear anywhere on the skin and often move or disappear within hours. Episodes are commonly grouped by duration: attacks lasting less than six weeks are termed acute urticaria, while repeated or persistent outbreaks lasting more than six weeks are classified as chronic urticaria. Some people also develop deeper tissue swelling called angioedema. The underlying process usually involves release of mediators from mast cells in the skin, triggered by a range of possible causes.

Symptoms and when to seek urgent care

Typical features include intense itch, red or pale-centred raised bumps, and sometimes a burning feeling. Angioedema may cause visible swelling around the eyes, lips or mouth. Seek urgent medical attention if you have difficulty breathing, trouble swallowing or speaking, rapidly spreading facial or tongue swelling, fainting, or confusion — these are signs that require immediate emergency evaluation.

Common triggers and everyday measures

Urticaria can be triggered by foods, certain medications, infections, physical factors (cold, heat, pressure), insect bites, or emotional stress. In many cases no clear trigger is found. Keeping a diary of foods, products, activities and exposures can help identify patterns. Wearing loose clothing, avoiding extreme temperatures, and managing stress are practical steps that may reduce flare frequency. Persistent or severe symptoms warrant specialist review.

Diagnosis and which specialist to consult

Diagnosis relies on a detailed clinical history and skin examination. Basic blood tests or investigations for infections or allergies may be requested in selected cases; chronic or complex presentations sometimes need more in‑depth testing. Initial assessment can be done by a primary care physician; dermatology and allergy/immunology specialists are commonly involved for further evaluation. If infection is suspected, an infectious diseases consultation may be appropriate.

Bu hastalıkla ilişkili sık görülen belirtiler

Facial swelling

Bu hastalık için ilgili branşlar

Dermatology and Venereal Diseases

Questions

Total 5 Question

Diş çekimi sonrası vücutta kaşıntı ve göz kapağı şişmesi neden olur?

12 months agoProfile information not shared

Boyundan bele kadar kızarıklık-kaşıntı ve kollarda kabarma neden olur?

12 months agoProfile information not shared

Ciltte kızarıklık, kabarıklık, ağrı ve kaşıntı neyin belirtisi olabilir?

last yearProfile information not shared

Vücutta kızarıklık, kaşıntı ve şişme neden olur?

last yearProfile information not shared

Kurdeşen (ürtiker) neden olur?

2 years agoProfile information not shared

Frequently asked questions

Specialist referral

Dermatology and allergy/immunology are the main specialties for further assessment; primary care is suitable for initial evaluation. Seek emergency services for severe breathing or swallowing problems.

4
Elif CÖMERT ÖZER
Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Elif CÖMERT ÖZER
Dermatoloji Specialist
Dermatoloji
Biruni Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Hastanesi
Küçükçekmece
/
İstanbul
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Nahide ONSUN
Prof. Dr. Nahide ONSUN
Dermatoloji Specialist
Dermatoloji
Biruni Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Hastanesi
Küçükçekmece
/
İstanbul
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Ömer MERT
Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Ömer MERT
Dermatoloji Specialist
Dermatoloji
Biruni Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Hastanesi
Küçükçekmece
/
İstanbul
View Details
Make an Appointment
Üyesi  Begüm GÜNEŞ
Dr. Öğr. Üyesi  Begüm GÜNEŞ
Dermatoloji Specialist
Dermatoloji
Biruni Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Hastanesi
Küçükçekmece
/
İstanbul
View Details
Make an Appointment

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