Hives (Urticaria) - Close-Up

Hives develop when histamine is released into the small blood vessels (capillaries). The capillaries dilate which causes a welt, and fluid oozes into the surrounding tissue, causing swelling. Histamine also causes intense itching.

Hives

Hives are raised red welts of various size on the surface of the skin, often itchy, which come and go. Also called uticaria, hives is usually part of an allergic reaction to drugs or food. The term "dermatitis" describes an inflammatory response of the skin, caused by contact with allergens or irritants, exposure to sunlight, or by poor circulation, even stress. AVOID SCRATCHING. Scratching the rash may spread the inflammation, lead to infection and even leave scars.

Food Allergies

The body's immune system normally reacts to the presence of toxins, bacteria or viruses by producing a chemical reaction to fight these invaders. However, sometimes the immune system reacts to ordinarily benign substances such as food or pollen, to which it has become sensitive. This overreaction can cause symptoms from the mild (hives) to the severe (anaphylactic shock) upon subsequent exposure to the substance. An actual food allergy, as opposed to simple intolerance due to the lack of digesting enzymes, is indicated by the production of antibodies to the food allergen, and by the release of histamines and other chemicals into the blood.

Hives (Urticaria) on the Arm

Hives (urticaria) are raised, red, itchy welts, seen here on the arm. The majority of urticaria develop as a result of allergic reactions. Occasionally, they may be associated with autoimmune diseases, infections (parasitosis), drugs, malignancy, or other causes.

Hives (Urticaria) on the Chest

Hives (urticaria) are raised, red, itchy welts, seen here on the chest. The majority of urticaria develop as a result of allergic reactions. Occasionally they may be associated with autoimmune diseases, infections (parasitosis), drugs, malignancy, or other causes.

Hives (Urticaria) - Close-Up

Hives (urticaria) are raised, red, itchy welts. The majority of urticaria develop as a result of allergic reactions. Occasionally, they may be associated with autoimmune diseases, infections (parasitosis), drugs, malignancy, or other causes.

Hives (Urticaria) on the Trunk

This person has raised, red, itchy welts (urticaria) on the chest and abdomen. The majority of urticaria develop as a result of allergic reactions. Occasionally, they may be associated with autoimmune diseases, infections (parasitosis), drugs, malignancy, or other causes.

Hives (Urticaria) on the Back and Buttocks

These are hives (urticaria) with the typical slightly-raised red appearance, and are accompanied by itching. These are located on the buttocks. Hives can be generalized over the entire body or may be localized, and usually result from an allergic reaction.

Hives (Urticaria) on the Back

The hives (urticaria) on this person's back have the typical slightly-raised red appearance and are accompanied by itching. Hives can generalized over the entire body, or may be localized.

Hives (Urticaria) on the Chest

The hives (urticaria) on this person's chest have the typical slightly-raised red appearance and are accompanied by itching. Hives can be generalized over the entire body or may be localized.