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Hives Health Video

Last Update: October 23, 2008

Video By: LIVESTRONG.COM

Hives, or urticaria, is a skin condition caused mainly by allergic reactions wherein raised red wheals, or welts, appear. Learn more about hives, including symptoms and treatments, in this video.

Take Action

  • Avoid allergens that cause hives
  • Contact a doctor if you experience an outbreak of hives
  • Follow all of your doctor's recommendations

About this Author

Dr. Ulrich joined On Call Medical Group in 2006. She had previously practiced at Doctors Medical Center in Richmond, Calif., and prior to that worked with the uninsured and homeless population of San Francisco at the Haight Ashbury Free Medical Clinic. Throughout her medical career, Dr. Ulrich as also been involved in numerous medical research studies. Dr. Ulrich holds a B.S. from Harvard University, an M.P.H. for the University of California at Berkeley, and an M.D. from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.

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Video Transcript

SKYLAR ULRICH, MD: Hi. I'm Dr. Skylar Ulrich. I'm going to talk about hives. Hives, otherwise known as urticaria, is a process which is mediated by mast cells in the epidermis. Typically, after exposure to an allergen, the skin will develop red, raised plaques which are extremely itchy and may be somewhat painful or sore. They may be caused by drugs, a food allergy, an insect sting, infection, exposure to topical irritants, chronic disease, or they can be idiopathic. The symptoms are diffuse, raised, red, itchy plaques. The diagnosis is by history and appearance, and treatment is through the use of topical steroids, systemic antihistamines, and systemic steroids for more severe cases. Avoidance of the allergen will typically prevent the recurrence of hives.

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