Hives, also known as urticaria, are itchy, raised bumps or welts on the skin
. They can vary in color, appearing red, pink, or flesh-colored, or they may be slightly lighter or darker than the surrounding skin
. Characteristics of hives:
- Raised spots or patches that may feel smooth
- Can range in size from a pinhead to larger than a dinner plate
- Vary in shape and can appear anywhere on the body
- Itch, burn, or sting and often feel warm to the touch
- May turn lighter in the center when pressure is applied
- Individual hives can last for a few minutes to hours and usually disappear within 24 hours
Hives can appear as tiny spots, blotches, thin raised lines, or large connected bumps
. They may occur in batches and grow larger, change shape, and spread
. Hives are often intensely itchy, and the affected area may also have swelling
