Learn how to identify early signs of allergic hives, including itchy bumps and swelling, and understand when urgent medical care is necessary. Visual documentation aids diagnosis and effective treatment of this common skin condition.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Allergic Hives

Urticaria, known as hives, presents as itchy, raised, reddish bumps on the skin. These wheals often have a lighter center and can appear suddenly due to allergies or unknown triggers.

Hives vary in size and shape, changing location rapidly within hours. Most resolve within a day, sometimes appearing elsewhere. Taking photos of the skin can help healthcare providers diagnose the condition accurately.

Sometimes, swelling under the skin, called angioedema, occurs in areas like lips, eyes, hands, feet, or genitals, resembling deeper hives. Proper diagnosis involves medical assessment, including visual documentation.

Typical early signs include:

Slightly elevated, red bumps on different parts of the body

Pinkish swellings that may appear alone or multiply

Additional symptoms might include intense itching, recurrent swelling in new areas within 24 hours, or swelling around the face and throat. Symptoms often worsen with heat or activity and may last over six weeks with flare-ups.

Seek immediate medical attention if:

Difficulty breathing or wheezing

Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

Feeling dizzy or faint

Chest pain or discomfort

Providing photographs of the hives during consultations can assist in diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the importance of visual records in managing hives.