Hives
Find your care
Whether you need ongoing treatment or want to enhance your appearance, we can help. Call 310-825-2631 for medical dermatology services and 310-206-7546 for cosmetic services.
What Are Hives?
Hives, also known as urticaria, are swollen, often itchy welts on the skin. They can range in size from small (like a pencil tip) to large (like a plate). They can form anywhere on the body.
What Causes Hives?
Hives are often caused by an allergic response as your body reacts to substances in the environment. Common triggers for hives include:
- Foods: Fruits (especially citrus), dairy, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts and shellfish
- Medicines
- Insect bites and stings
- Animals
- Substances ranging from pollen to latex to chemicals
Hives Symptoms
Common symptoms of hives include:
- Itching, stinging or burning areas of skin
- Slightly raised, pink or red swellings on the skin
- Welts that occur alone or in a group or connect over a large area
- Skin swelling that subsides or goes away within 24 hours in one area but may appear in another area
Treatment for Hives
The main treatment goal for hives is to reduce the immune response in your body to relieve symptoms and cure the hives. Our UCLA dermatologists may recommend medications such as antihistamines, steroids or both to treat hives.
Contact Us
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (310) 825-6911.